Save the date wedding cards are cards that are sent out to guests long before the actual wedding invitations. It's a good idea since it gives the guests a longer period of time to plan things. It's not a good idea to RSVP them because of the long time until the wedding. Some people will put it off and others may just forget about them.

Did you know that save the date cards don't actually have to be cards? You can get very creative with them. Send printed save the date wedding magnets that your guests can stick to their refrigerators, or have pens or pencils printed. Or send candy and have the information printed on the wrappers.

Create your own logo for cards and don't restrict yourself to traditionally shaped cards. For football fanatics for instance, send a save the date card in the shape of a football. Many on-line printing companies have wonderful products and ideas you can use for your save the date wedding invites.

The information that should go on the card is your basic who, what, where, and when. Have fun with these cards, or cookies, or whatever form you choose to send. Be bold and beautiful and make them your own. The same goes for the wording. You can be formal or be more fun.

♦ Brian Jones & Sarah Smith to be wed October 5, 2009 in Little Town, IL.

♦ Brian Jones & Sarah Smith will be united in marriage on October 5, 2009.

♦ It's about time! Brian Jones & Sarah Smith finally tie the knot on October 5, 2009.

Save the date wedding invitations should be sent out about 4 to 6 months before the wedding, and the actual invitations about 8 weeks before. If you are planning a destination wedding it would be wise to send save the date notes at least 8 months before the wedding because people need time to arrange for time off work and house and pet sitting.

Sometimes upon getting a save the date card your guest will know right away that they cannot attend and will send regrets. Even if this occurs, proper wedding etiquette states that you still should send the person an invitation.

Save the date wedding cards were unheard of years ago, but they have steadily been gaining in popularity because they give your guests, family, and bridal party, a lot more time to plan the details of their own lives out, so they can concentrate on your big day.