Save the Date, RSVP, and Wedding Invitations: What’s the Difference?

Planning a wedding involves a lot of moving pieces, and when it comes to stationery, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you're wondering what the difference is between a save the date, a wedding invitation, and an RSVP, you're not alone.

Each one plays a unique and important role in your wedding timeline. Here’s a breakdown to help make it all crystal clear.

1. Save the Date: The Early Heads-Up

What it is: A save the date is a simple announcement that lets your guests know you’ve picked a date and they’re invited. It doesn’t include all the details — just the basics — so people can plan ahead.

What it includes:

Your names

Wedding date

City and state (venue not required yet)

“Formal invitation to follow” line

Optional: wedding website link for early info or travel details

When to send it:6 to 8 months before the wedding(Or 9 to 12 months ahead for destination weddings)

Why it matters: It gives your guests enough notice to book travel, save the date on their calendar, and make arrangements — especially if your wedding falls during a busy season or holiday.

2. Wedding Invitation: The Official Details

What it is: Your wedding invitation is the formal invite. This is where you give your guests all the important information about your big day.

What it includes:

Names of the couple (and hosts, if applicable)

Date and time

Ceremony and reception location(s)

Dress code (optional)

RSVP instructions or RSVP card

Additional cards for details like accommodations or weekend events

Wedding website (if applicable)

When to send it: 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding(Or 10 to 12 weeks for destination weddings)

Why it matters: This is the moment your guests officially know what to expect. It sets the tone for your wedding style and provides everything they need to attend.

3. RSVP: The Guest Response

What it is: RSVP stands for “Répondez s’il vous plaît,” which is French for “Please respond.” It’s how guests let you know whether they’re coming.

What it includes:

A space to accept or decline the invitation

Number of guests attending

Meal selections (if applicable)

A return envelope or RSVP website link

When responses are due: Typically 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding

Why it matters: You’ll need these responses to give final headcounts to your caterer, finalize seating charts, and prepare place cards or favors. A clear RSVP deadline helps keep everything on track.

Quick Recap

Type	Purpose	When to Send	Key Info Included
Save the Date	Announce your date	6–8 months before	Names, date, location, website (optional)
Wedding Invitation	Formal invite with details	6–8 weeks before	All event info + RSVP instructions
RSVP	Collect guest responses	Included with invite	Yes/no, guest count, meal choice, etc.

Tips to Keep in Mind

Be clear with RSVP deadlines and how guests should respond (mail, website, or both).

Number your RSVP cards lightly in pencil on the back — just in case someone forgets to write their name.

Keep extra invitations as keepsakes or for last-minute additions.

Track responses with a spreadsheet or planning app to stay organized.

Whether you're going traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, understanding these three pieces of wedding stationery will help make your planning process smoother — and your guests feel informed and excited to celebrate with you.