How to Design the Perfect Save the Date Card

When planning a special event such as a wedding, party, or other milestone celebration, save the date cards are an essential first step. These early announcements both help guests mark their calendars and set the tone for your big day.

By printing your own save the date postcards, you can set the stage for the perfect event. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to make the perfect card, including tips on formatting, size, and how to get save the dates cheap.

Understanding the Purpose of a Save the Date

Save the date cards are all about giving your guests advanced notice. By announcing your event early, you ensure that your friends and family can plan accordingly. This is particularly important for weddings or destination events, where attendees might need to plan travel far in advance.

Your save the date announces the event, including the who, what, when, and where. It also sets the theme and tone for the event, which builds excitement, and it helps them secure time off of work and make travel arrangements.

For weddings or major events, aim to send save the date postcards or cards six months to a year in advance. For destination events, the earlier, the better.

What to Include On Your Save the Date Card

Your save the date should strike a balance between providing necessary details and showcasing your personal style or event’s theme. Your cards should contain some basic information:

• Names of the couple or honorees
• Date of the event
• City or location (if confirmed)
• A note that a formal invitation will follow

You can also include optional information, such as a wedding website link or QR code, and accommodation details for out-of-town guests.

Including the right amount of information makes sure that your card is clear and visually appealing without crowding in too much text.

Picking a Theme

Your save the date postcards’ theme and style should complement your event. It sets recipients’ expectations for the big day, so make sure it matches your event as a whole.

When choosing a style, match your event theme through your colors, patterns, and imagery. Choose fonts that are both legible and express your style. Consider including minimalist designs, watercolor elements or bold typography, all of which are popular design choices for contemporary save the dates.

Steps to Design Your Save the Date Card

Designing a save the date card is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to create a memorable and functional design.

1. 1. Choose a Format

   Save the date postcards are a simple and cost-effective option, as they’re easy to mail and eliminate the need for envelopes. Foldable cards are better for more formal events or if you want to include additional details.

2. 2. Select High-Quality Imagery

   Include imagery that encourages people to attend. Consider using a professional engagement photo or a custom illustration, and make sure that the images are high resolution to avoid pixelation when they’re printed.

3. 3. Craft the Text

   As you’re writing the text for your save the date, keep the wording concise but engaging. Use a tone that matches your event, whether formal (such as “Please save the date for the wedding of…”) or casual (such as “We’re getting hitched!”).

4. 4. Add Personal Touches

   Once the rest of your design is finished, it’s time to make the card your own. Include unique elements such as a monogram or UV printing to highlight aspects of your card. As well, you can consider adding a QR code to your wedding website.

If you want some guidance with your design, consider using an online design tool such as Canva to get started. Or, if you’d like a custom design created just for you, reach out to the design team at ZoePrint who can create a save the date design from scratch for your event.

Printing and Production Tips

The printing process is where your save the date card comes to life. By partnering with a professional printing service, you can rest assured that you’ll receive a polished final product, whether you’re creating save the dates cheap or opting for more premium materials.

During the print process, you can choose which paper you’d prefer. In general, thicker papers are sturdier and provide a sense of luxury to your event; papers such as 12 pt and 14 pt cover paper are excellent options. You can also choose to add thermography to your notecards, which adds a 3D effect.

Save the Date Size Considerations

Some common sizes for save the dates include 4x6 and 5x7. However, the best size for your specific save the date depends on the format (i.e. whether you’re sending a postcard or a folded card), the amount of information and design elements you’d like to include, and mailing costs (as postcards often save on postage).

Feel free to ask the ZoePrint team for advice on which size will work best for your event.

Print Your Save The Date Postcards With ZoePrint

Designing and printing the perfect save the date card is all about balancing style, clarity, and practicality. With the right design elements and printing, you can create an unforgettable first impression for your special event.

When you’re ready to print your save the dates, let ZoePrint help! We specialize in printing excellent save the date postcards and cards that suit every style and budget. We also offer design services so that you can send the save the date you’ve been dreaming of.

To get started, order your save the date postcards or folded cards online, or ask ZoePrint for a custom quote!