# When to send wedding invitations and set your RSVP deadline

> A simple timeline for save-the-dates, invitations, RSVP deadlines and reminders, plus RSVP wording you can copy.

Source: https://invitebatch.com/blog/when-to-send-wedding-invitations-and-rsvp-deadline · Updated 2026-10-06 · InviteBatch

Good timing gives guests enough notice and gives you final numbers before your caterer needs them. Here is the timeline most planners use.

## The timeline
| When | What |
|---|---|
| 6–8 months before | Save-the-dates (10–12 months for destination weddings) |
| 6–8 weeks before | Wedding invitations (3 months for destination weddings) |
| 3–4 weeks before | RSVP deadline |
| 2–3 days after the deadline | Friendly reminders to guests who haven't replied |
| 2 weeks before | Final numbers to caterer and venue |

## How to choose your RSVP deadline
Work backwards from the date your caterer or venue needs final numbers, then subtract a week for late replies. That's your RSVP deadline. Put it on the invitation in a simple line such as **"Kindly reply by May 1, 2027"**.

## RSVP wording you can copy
- *Kindly reply by May 1, 2027*
- *Please RSVP by the first of May*
- *We have reserved [2] seats in your honor. Kindly reply by May 1* (useful to make the party size clear)

## Reminder wording
> Hi Emily! Just a friendly reminder to RSVP for our wedding when you have a minute. It helps us so much with planning. Here's your invitation: [link]

Design: https://invitebatch.com/editor/blush-watercolor-wedding-invitation
## Make the deadline easy to meet
The easiest way to get replies on time is to make replying take ten seconds. With a personal invitation link, guests can reply from their phone the moment they read it, and your dashboard shows exactly who you still need to chase.

## FAQ

**How far in advance should wedding invitations be sent?**
Six to eight weeks before the wedding for a local wedding, and three months ahead for a destination wedding.

**When should the RSVP deadline be?**
Three to four weeks before the wedding, or a few days before your caterer needs final numbers.

**How do I remind guests who haven't replied?**
Send a short, friendly message a few days after the deadline. With online RSVP you can see exactly who hasn't replied and remind only them.