One of the questions I get asked often is, "Are save-the-dates really necessary?". With today's clients being more cognizant of budget constraints, costs for items they initially did not account for may mean the difference between serving creme brulee or jello at for dessert at their reception.
Unfortunately, I don't have a straightforward answer but here are a few things to consider. Hopefully this list will assist you in figuring out whether or not you can do away with this potential expense.
Plan Event, Will Travel
For obvious reasons, destination weddings/events are the number one reason a save-the-date becomes critical. Planes, trains or automobiles, not to mention lodging, all need logistical planning and providing your guests a heads-up will be a courtesy they will certainly appreciate.
Long Distance
You grew up in Massapequa but now live in Chicago where the wedding will be. If most of your guests are coming from out of town, save-the-dates are essential for the same logistical reasons as above.
Long Distance
You grew up in Massapequa but now live in Chicago where the wedding will be. If most of your guests are coming from out of town, save-the-dates are essential for the same logistical reasons as above.
Happy Holiday
If your event happens to fall on a 3 day week-end or extended holiday like Thanksgiving, save-the-dates will certainly ensure your guests are able to include your event in their holiday plans; not sending one out may negatively affect your guests' ability to attend.
News Flash
Kill two birds with one stone. If most of your friends and family are unaware of the impending joyous event, save-the-dates can do double duty and serve as announcements as well.
Plain Fun
Well, why not? It's plain fun to send out save-the-dates, especially creative ones. And most of them can be designed so they won't break the bank. Don't forget the crucial details: your names, the date of the event, and the city where the event will take place. Everything else will be gravy, like photos, illustrations, favorite love poem or your wedding website.
There's so many available designs out there but the thing that will really set you apart, i always say, is making it yours. Infuse your personality into it. For instance, we had clients who were both teachers and we ordered pencils with a label "mark your calendars" for their save-the-date. Send out CDs with your love song(s) burned in. Firefighters can send out matches and use the phrase "we're a perfect match". See what we mean? fun right? Now go figure out one for you.
There's so many available designs out there but the thing that will really set you apart, i always say, is making it yours. Infuse your personality into it. For instance, we had clients who were both teachers and we ordered pencils with a label "mark your calendars" for their save-the-date. Send out CDs with your love song(s) burned in. Firefighters can send out matches and use the phrase "we're a perfect match". See what we mean? fun right? Now go figure out one for you.
