Photo by Jenna Marie Photography

Newly engaged couples can quickly find themselves in a whirlwind of deadlines once they pop the question. Between choosing vendors, signing contracts, and ironing out last minute details, there are a lot of things that need to be done between saying “yes” and “I do.” One topic I often get questions on is the timeline for everything to do with paper – invites, save the dates, programs, and more.

To make the process easier, I have put together a guideline of when you would typically want to do things like send out Save the Dates, order your Day of Paper Suite, and everything else involving the paper elements of your big day.

Order and Send Out Your Save the Dates
6-12 Months Before the Wedding

Order Invitations and Book Calligrapher
6 Months Before the Wedding

Order Invitations for Other Events (Rehearsal Dinner, Welcome Reception, etc.)

2-4 Months Before the Wedding

Order Favors
2-4 Months Before the Wedding

Set RSVP Due Date
3-4 Weeks Before the wedding

Contact Anyone That Didn’t RSVP
Immediately after RSVP Due Date

Finalize Seating Chart, Escort Cards, and Favor Stationery
2 Weeks Before the Wedding

Send Thank You Notes
Within 6 Weeks After the Wedding
(Gifts received before the wedding should receive a thank you within 2 weeks)