27 Save-the-Date Wording Ideas: Creative, Formal & Fun Examples
Showcase your style from the very first announcement with thoughtful phrasing options.
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As you embark on your wedding journey, your save-the-date card is the first official announcement that tells your guests, “We’re getting married—mark your calendar!” While invitations have set conventions, save-the-date wording gives couples the creative freedom to express their personalities and set the tone for the celebration. Whether you want formal elegance, playful humor, or something totally original, this guide explores 27 wording ideas, expert etiquette, quotes, and essential tips to craft your perfect save-the-date.
What Is a Save-the-Date and Why It Matters
A save-the-date is a pre-invitation card sent to notify guests of your wedding date, location, and sometimes your website, long before the formal invitation arrives.
Purpose:
- Announces your chosen wedding date and location
- Allows guests ample time to plan, especially for travel or destination weddings
- Sets the initial tone and style for your event
Unlike invitations, save-the-dates do not request an RSVP and are intentionally simple.
What to Include on Your Save-the-Date
Keep your save-the-date clear, concise, and informative. Essential details:
- Your Names (as you’d like them to appear)
- Wedding Date
- Location (city and state or full venue, especially for destination events)
- Notice of Invitation (e.g., “Invitation to follow”)
- Wedding Website (optional, for details and travel info)
Omit RSVP requests from save-the-dates; that comes with your wedding invitation.
When to Send Save-the-Dates
Proper timing gives guests plenty of notice:
- For local weddings: 6–8 months before the wedding
- For destination weddings: 8–12 months in advance
This ensures out-of-town guests can arrange travel and accommodations stress-free.
27 Save-the-Date Wording Examples
Below you’ll find diverse ideas ranging from traditional to whimsical, formal to relaxed. Customize as needed, swap in names and dates, and express your unique vibe.
Classic & Formal Save-the-Date Wording
- Simple Classic
Save the Date!
Emma Watson & Jack Miller
Are getting married
June 20, 2026
New York, NY
Invitation to follow - Formal Elegance
Together with their families,
Isabelle Chen & Mateo Ruiz
Request the pleasure of your company
At their wedding
September 14, 2026
San Francisco, CA
Invitation to come - Timeless Black Tie
Kindly save the date for the marriage of
Rose Clark & John Banks
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Boston, Massachusetts
Formal invitation to follow - Religious/Traditional
With joyful hearts and God’s blessings,
Rachel Lee & Benjamin Adams
Invite you to celebrate their holy matrimony
October 3, 2026
Chicago, IL
Invitation to follow
Modern & Minimal Save-the-Date Wording
- Clean and Modern
Save the Date
Olivia + Noah
11.12.2026
Invitation to follow - Simple Typography
Please save the date for
Anna & Mia
Saturday, July 17, 2026
Los Angeles, CA - Wedding Website Highlight
Save the Date
Jessica & Jordan
May 9, 2026
Visit our website: www.jessandjordanwedding.com
Formal invitation to follow - Minimal Destination
Anna & Elias
Are tying the knot in Rome!
May 17, 2026
Save the date!
Creative & Fun Save-the-Date Wording
- Quirky Invitation
Save the date and slip on your dancing shoes!
Elizabeth Bennett + Fitzwilliam Darcy
Are getting married
05.15.2027
Portland, Maine
Invite to Follow - Celebrate Love
Pop the champagne!
Jamie & Bex
Are saying “I do”
April 18, 2026
Seattle, Washington
Invitation to come - Movie Night Theme
It’s a love story—you’re invited to the next chapter!
Mark & Alex
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Brooklyn, NY - Pet-Inspired
Our humans are getting married!
Love, Rosie & Max (the cats)
Jess & Taylor
October 16, 2026
Invitation to follow - Adventure Awaits
Pack your bags!
Kelsey + Drew
Are tying the knot in Maui
June 7, 2026
Details to follow
Casual & Playful Save-the-Date Wording
- Easygoing
We’re getting hitched!
Join us for a casual celebration
Madison & James
April 25, 2026
Invitation to follow - Party Vibes
Mark your calendars!
There will be love, laughter, and maybe some questionable dance moves.
Faith + Robert
March 8, 2026
Jacksonville, FL - Short & Sweet
Save the date!
Sam & Dylan
May 31, 2026 - BBQ Wedding
We’re saying “I do” with a BBQ!
Join us: Skylar + Leo
September 19, 2026
Save the Date
Invitation to follow
Destination Wedding Save-the-Date Wording
- Sun, Sand, and I Do
Pack your bags—join us in paradise!
Rachel & Mike
Cabo San Lucas
February 12, 2026
Invitation to follow - International Adventure
Save the date!
We’re getting married in Paris
Nora & Amélie
April 4, 2026 - Travel Theme
Love is an adventure—let’s travel together!
Carson & Ethan
Banff, Canada
September 28, 2026
Family & Inclusive Save-the-Date Wording
- Blended Family
Together with their families
Liam, Jade, Isla, and Oliver
Request the pleasure of your company
For their special day
November 3, 2026
Invitation to follow - Kids Included
Save the date—kids and giggles welcome!
Cameron + Taylor
June 21, 2026 - Multigenerational
Three generations, one big day!
Sydney, Ava, and the whole family
August 19, 2026
Inspirational Save-the-Date Quotes
Adding a quote from a favorite song, movie, or book gives your save-the-date an extra spark. Here are classic pick-me-ups for romance:
- “At last.” — At Last by Etta James
- “It’s a love story.” — Love Story by Taylor Swift
- “Love is in the air.” — Love Is in the Air by John Paul Young
- “Soul meets soul on lovers’ lips.” — Prometheus Unbound, Percy Bysshe Shelley
- “Love is a great beautifier.” — Little Women, Louisa May Alcott
- “We’ll always have Paris.” — Casablanca (1942)
Tip: Pair a short quote with your wedding details for a personal touch.
Save-the-Date Etiquette & Best Practices
Who Gets a Save-the-Date?
- Send only to guests who are definitely invited to your wedding
- Each household (address) gets one card
- Order extras to cover last-minute list additions
Design & Printing Tips
- Choose colors and motifs that preview your wedding style (match or hint at invitation design)
- Consider including a QR code to your wedding website for easy guest access
- Double-check spellings, dates, and addresses to avoid reprints
- For quick savings, digital or e-vite save-the-dates are a modern and affordable option
What Not to Put on a Save-the-Date
- No RSVP details or meal choice request
- Avoid specific ceremony times or comprehensive venue details; keep it broad
- No registry info—save that for your website or invitations
When Not to Send a Save-the-Date
- If your guest list is not finalized, wait to avoid confusion or unintentional exclusions
- If you plan a small/intimate or short-lead wedding, a direct invitation may suffice
Save-the-Date Wording Table: Comparing Styles
| Style | Sample Wording | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| Formal | “Kindly save the date for the wedding of…” | Elegant, traditional |
| Modern | “Save the Date. Sarah + Lucas. 09.16.2026.” | Minimal, stylish |
| Fun/Whimsical | “Pop the bubbly—we’re getting married!” | Playful, energetic |
| Destination | “Pack your bags—join us in Mexico!” | Adventurous, light-hearted |
| Quote-Driven | “At last.” | Romantic, personal |
Frequently Asked Questions About Save-the-Date Wording
Do I have to send save-the-dates?
Save-the-dates are not required, but they’re highly recommended if you want to give guests advance notice, especially for destination weddings or dates that fall on busy weekends.
Should my save-the-date match my wedding invitation?
While it’s a nice touch to have a unified look, save-the-dates can be different or more playful in style than your formal invitations. Use it as an opportunity to preview your wedding vibe.
Can I include my wedding website on the save-the-date?
Yes! Include your website URL or a QR code to share extra information like travel tips, accommodation blocks, and more.
Is it okay to send save-the-dates by email?
Absolutely. Digital save-the-dates are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and ensure quick delivery.
What if my date or venue changes after sending my save-the-date?
If plans shift, send an update via email, your website, or a follow-up printed card so guests can adjust accordingly.
Expert Tips: Making Your Save-the-Date Unforgettable
- Personalize your message to reflect your journey as a couple
- Use professional photos or custom illustrations for added flair
- Test-run your design digitally and in print to catch typos
- Be sure every recipient is on your final guest list before sending
Save-the-Date Wording: Quick Glance Examples
- Classic: “Save the Date: Abigail & Sarah, September 10, 2026, Chicago, IL”
- Funny: “Unplug your phone. Cancel your plans. We’re getting married!”
- Destination: “We’re jetting off to Santorini. Come celebrate!”
- Quote: “It was always you.”
- Religious: “God has blessed us with love—join us in November!”
Mix and match as you create the first memory of your wedding—your save-the-date!
References
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