1. Save the Dates (12–18 Months Before the Wedding)
If you’re having a destination wedding or expect many guests to travel, sending out Save the Dates well in advance is wise.
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When to send: Around 12–18 months before.
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Format: A simple printed card, magnet, or even a digital design with a QR code.
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Why it matters: Gives guests time to book travel and accommodation.
2. Ordering Your Wedding Invitations (6–9 Months Before)
Couples often underestimate how long it takes to design, approve, print, and deliver invitations.
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Design process: Custom invitations (foil, vellum, laser-cut, etc.) may take several weeks for proofing and production.
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Order window: 6–9 months before the wedding is ideal.
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Tip: If you’re planning multiple events (Nikah, Mehndi, Sangeet, Baraat, Walima, Reception), order everything together to save costs.
3. Sending Wedding Invitations (3–6 Months Before)
The sweet spot in the UK is 3–6 months before the wedding.
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Local weddings: Send around 3–4 months in advance.
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Destination weddings: Send earlier—6+ months in advance—to allow for travel arrangements.
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Tip: Always include RSVP deadlines at least 6 weeks before the wedding date.
4. RSVP Cards (Deadline: 6–8 Weeks Before)
RSVPs are essential for finalising catering, seating charts, and favours.
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Best practice: Set the RSVP deadline at least 6–8 weeks before the wedding.
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Options:
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Traditional paper RSVP cards with pre-paid envelopes.
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QR codes linking to a digital RSVP form (popular in 2025).
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5. Reminder Cards / WhatsApp Follow-Up (2–3 Weeks Before)
Even with the best planning, some guests won’t reply.
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Polite reminder: Send a WhatsApp message or small printed reminder card 2–3 weeks before.
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Tip: This is especially helpful for big South Asian weddings, where guest lists can be very large.
6. Thank You Cards (2–3 Months After the Wedding)
Don’t forget this final step!
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When to send: Ideally within 2–3 months after the wedding.
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Why it matters: Shows appreciation and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.
2025 Trends in Wedding Invitation Timelines
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Eco-Friendly Options: Many couples now use a mix of printed invitations and QR codes to reduce waste.
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Multi-Event Suites: South Asian, African, and multicultural weddings often require detailed invitation packages sent earlier than single-event weddings.
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Early Digital RSVPs: More couples are collecting RSVPs digitally months in advance while still sending printed invites for tradition.
Final Thoughts
Getting your wedding invitation timeline right makes the planning process smoother for you and your guests. By ordering your invitations early and sending them at the right time, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and ensure everyone is prepared for your big day.
At ShadiCards.com, we design and print bespoke wedding stationery, from luxury foil invitations to modern QR code-enabled cards, tailored to your traditions and timeline.
