All about Evening Invitations

As you plan your wedding, one important detail is how to communicate with your guests about your special day. While traditional save-the-date cards are commonly sent for full-day celebrations, many couples are now opting for 'Save the Evening' cards specifically for evening guests. This blog will explore the purpose of these cards, when to send them, and how to word your invitations effectively.

What Are 'Save the Evening' Cards?

'Save the Evening' cards are a way to inform guests that they are invited to join you for the evening portion of your wedding. This is particularly useful when you have a guest list that includes both day and evening attendees. By sending these cards, you give your evening guests advance notice to keep that date free, allowing them to make necessary arrangements.

When Should You Send Them?

It’s best to send out 'Save the Evening' cards as soon as you have your wedding date and venue confirmed. This gives your evening guests ample time to plan. Typically, sending them 8-12 months before the wedding is a good timeframe, especially if you expect many guests to travel.

Who Should Receive 'Save the Evening' Cards?

You should send 'Save the Evening' cards to those guests you want to celebrate with you during the evening festivities. This includes friends, extended family, and colleagues who may not be invited to the full day but are important to you.

Important Considerations

While it’s common practice to send save-the-date cards only to day guests, it’s perfectly acceptable to include evening guests as long as you clarify that it’s an invitation for the evening only. This helps avoid confusion and ensures everyone understands their role in your celebration.

Wording Your 'Save the Evening' Cards

Clear wording is key when sending out 'Save the Evening' cards. Here are some examples of how you can phrase your invitations:

Example 1:

Save the Evening!
Jo & Rich
are getting married on
August 24, 2024
Join us for an evening of celebration!
Invitation to follow

Example 2:

Save the Date
Jo & Rich
August 24, 2024
Evening Reception
Invitation to follow

 

These examples make it clear that you're inviting guests for the evening only while still providing essential details about your wedding date.

Sending Evening Wedding Invitations

Once you've sent out your 'Save the Evening' cards, you'll need to follow up with formal invitations closer to your wedding date. These invitations should include all relevant details about the evening event, such as:

• Venue address
• Time of arrival
• Dress code (if applicable)
• Any additional information (like parking or accommodations)

Round up

Sending out 'Save the Evening' cards is a thoughtful way to ensure your evening guests feel included in your celebration. By providing clear wording and timely communication, you can help everyone prepare for a wonderful night of festivities. Whether you're planning a small gathering or a large party, these invitations set the stage for a memorable celebration.