Planning your wedding on the stunning Chesapeake Bay in Maryland is an exciting journey, but it also comes with its share of questions. One of the most common questions I hear as the manager of a waterfront wedding venue is about the difference between save the dates and wedding invitations. Both serve distinct purposes, but knowing when and how to send them is key to making your planning stress-free. Let’s dive in.
What Are Save the Dates?
Save the dates are a way to give your guests an early heads-up about your wedding plans. They’re less formal than invitations and often sent once your venue and date are locked in. These cards are particularly helpful for a destination wedding or a venue like ours, where guests may want to plan for travel, accommodations, or extended stays to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay.
When to Send Save the Dates
The ideal time to send save the dates is 6-12 months before your wedding. This gives your guests plenty of time to plan. For a spring or summer wedding at Island View Waterfront, where the gorgeous outdoor spaces and waterfront charm are at their peak, aim for the earlier end of this timeline.
What Information Should Be Included?
Your save the dates should include:
Your names
Wedding date
Location (general area, like “On the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland”)
A note that a formal invitation will follow
Optional: a wedding website link
This isn’t the place to include your full schedule of events or dress code. Keep it simple and focus on giving your guests the essentials.
What Are Wedding Invitations?
Your wedding invitations are the formal announcement of your wedding and contain all the important details. These are sent closer to the big day and set the tone for your celebration. Whether your ceremony is in one of our elegant indoor spaces or our scenic outdoor waterfront location, your invitation can hint at the vibe you’re creating.
When to Send Wedding Invitations
Send your invitations about 6-8 weeks before your wedding date. For out-of-town guests or weddings with a lot of moving parts, you can send them up to 10 weeks in advance.
What Information Should Be Included?
Your invitations need to cover:
The names of the couple
Wedding date and time
Venue name and address (like ours, which includes free parking!)
RSVP instructions
Optional: dress code, registry information, or special details about your curated vendor experiences
Save the Dates vs. Wedding Invitations: The Key Differences
Timing: Save the dates go out earlier to reserve the date, while invitations provide final details closer to the wedding.
Details: Save the dates include basic information, whereas invitations have everything your guests need to know.
Formality: Invitations are more formal and often follow a specific design style, while save the dates can be playful or simple.
Response Required: Invitations request an RSVP, while save the dates do not.
Family moments feel even more special when celebrated on the Bay.
What About Backup Plans?
Planning for inclement weather is a must for waterfront weddings, and at Island View, we pride ourselves on having backup plans for backup plans. Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony with sailboats floating in the background or an indoor reception with panoramic water views, your guests will feel comfortable and cared for no matter the circumstances.
How We Help at Island View Waterfront
As a family-owned and operated venue since 1968, we know how to make wedding planning easier. From our curated vendor guide to the included tables, chairs, and setup/breakdown services, every detail is designed to simplify your big day. Plus, our all-inclusive options allow you to customize your inclusions based on your budget and needs, ensuring your day is as unique as your love story.
Island View Waterfront offers a flexible approach to wedding planning, allowing you to customize your package to suit your needs and budget.
Island View Waterfront is committed to making your dream celebration a reality.
Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning your unforgettable wedding or event.
Wedding Website: www.islandviewwaterfrontevents.net
Instagram: Island View Waterfront Venue, Essex Maryland
About us: Island View Waterfront is an independent, locally-owned wedding venue near Baltimore Maryland. We have been family owned and operated since 1968. What started as a small bar and marina (read the history here), we are proud to be the current stewards of this waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay.
When you choose an independent, locally owned venue like ours, you work directly with the owner, and third generation operator Jessica, throughout your entire wedding planning process!
We are committed to supporting other locally owned wedding venues around the country. A shout-out to the following venues who are offering their continued support and encouragement:
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