Save-the-Date Cards
By Sally Manglicmot, creator of Weddings A Breeze 'Wedding Planning and Organizer Kit'.

Do you need to send "save the date" cards? It's all the craze today. Why? Brides want to share their exciting news about their upcoming wedding and because the cards are fun! Most of all, you want to inform those guests who live out of town about your upcoming event. By sending the cards, you are allowing them plenty of time to make travel arrangements. Is your wedding on a major holiday weekend? If so, this is another good reason to send the cards so your guests can plan ahead. Are you planning a destination wedding? If so, then Save-the-Date cards is another way to help your guests prepare their travel plans.

The key about sending these cards is that you are planning to follow-up with a customary wedding invitation. Is it necessary to send the cards? Only if needed. The cards are an extra expense (cards and postage) you may not have included the cards in your budget. If you decide to send the cards, there are many options available such as ordering small or large quantities, formal or informal, or, if you're creative, make your own. Save-the-Date cards also come in magnets which can be placed on the kitchen refrigerator. The cards are very simple - bride and groom's names, the date, city and state. Careful not to confuse your guests; perhaps you can add small print stating: "wedding invitation to follow".