Combining Save-the-dates and Invitations?

This is just an invitation then. It's the same info. You may have trouble getting the RSVPs back if they are sent too early.

we are having difficulties and we sent ours at 8weeks and we had STDs too. At the end of the day there is no perfect formula.

They are two totally different things. One is just a reminder to save the date and hasn’t officially invited you to anything and the other requires a response. Save the dates are unnecessary especially if you are having a local wedding and not a lot of out of town guests. If you really want them look into some cheap ones from a place like Costco or send the VIPs/OOT guests an email or text with the accommodation information.

We did our save the dates at Wal-Mart and got out way cheaper. At Wal-Mart you can get 20 for $7

Just skip save the dates. Let your VIP guest know the day and then in the 8-6 time send the invites.

I actually made our save the dates so I only had to buy envelopes and stamps. We invited 250 guests so the stamps cost about $100 and ambulance were about $10. For wedding invites though we will get them made.

We plan on skippig the save the dates for 90% of our guests. We are only going to send them to our friends that live across or out of the country.

If by combining, you mean using the phrase "save the date" on the invitations, I think that would be a little confusing.

We skipped save-the-dates and it wasn't a problem, I don't think anyone even noticed.

That would just be an invitation..

You really don't need STDs. Those are a preference, and a fairly new trend. We certainly didn't use them.

I would recommend against save the dates. They are a new trend and not necessary. It locks you into inviting people. Many a person has come to WW saying "Help! Do I have to invite people who I sent a save the date to?" The answer is yes. Let your VIP's know through word of mouth and you will be fine.

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I don't agree that they are trendy and unnecessary - maybe in some cases, but if you are having a lot of OOT guests or a DW you should definitely invest on STD because people need to know in advance in order to plan for attending (if that is your goal).

I do agree that often times we hear about brides/couples regretting sending a STD to someone - that is why it is important to really look into your guest list and make sure you are locking in people that you absolutely want at your wedding.

Another option (besides word of mouth) is to send STD only to your VIPs, but if you go this route I would keep it in circles, for example: if you send to grandparents, send to both sets, if you send to uncle and aunt, send to both sides of the family, if you send to co-worker, send to all co-workers being invited.

I used Vistaprint during their 50% off event, it was really affordable. Places like Walmart and Staples also offer them at a good price.

Just skip the STD, then.

Don't send a save the date. Spread the date by word of mouth to all your VIP guests. Then 3 months before the wedding send out a traditional invitation.