Lindsey + Brandon

I recently finished up some Save the Date cards for the cutest bride! Lindsey and Brandon will be tying the knot in the fall, and the bride-to-be wanted to incorporate some rustic charm with a monogram that was designed by a close friend.

In addition to some beautiful, swirly typography, Lindsey is working with a beautiful palate of greens and browns. Here's a sampling of the Save the Date card:

A few tips for any bride considering sending out Save the Dates:

• Plan on sending Save the Dates anywhere from 6-9 months in advance. Allot more time if you are having a destination wedding. Guests will need to book flights and hotels and schedule vacation days well in advance.

• Consider creating a wedding website and listing it on your Save the Date cards. (I omitted Lindsey & Brandon's to respect their privacy on this blog). There are loads of free site builders available, and if you want something super duper, consider ordering a custom site from my pal, Ryan Brannen. 

A wedding website is a great way to share important information with guests. In addition to the obvious, (photos, ceremony and reception information) a wedding website is a sneaky, yet acceptable way of sharing your registry information. You'll also want to list hotel information, directions or a general area map, as well as fun things to do for out-of-town guests.

• Unlike Wedding Invitations, Save the Dates can be more light hearted or casual. You may take this opportunity to do something to show your silly side, which is entirely OK. Many brides also use the Save the Date as a starting point to establish the look of the entire wedding. Also OK. 

While Save the Date cards are by no means necessary to send, they do serve a purpose. And they are a perfect excuse to start early on your wedding stationery, which is always a winning argument in my book.