A Guide To RSVP's vs Save The Date's for Your Chattanooga Wedding
Planning a wedding involves juggling countless moving pieces, and navigating the world of invitations and announcements can feel overwhelming. Two key elements you'll encounter are RSVP’s and Save the Date’s. Each serves a unique and crucial role in ensuring your big day is a success. If you're planning your wedding near Chattanooga at The Views at Sunset Ridge, understanding the difference can help streamline your planning process.In this wedding planning blog we will share A Guide To RSVP's vs Save The Date's for Your Chattanooga Wedding.
This guide dives into the purposes of RSVP’s and Save the Date’s, offers practical advice on when to send them, and shares why The Views at Sunset Ridge is the ideal venue for your Chattanooga wedding.
Before we begin, we want to welcome you to our Chattanooga wedding venue online experience! While you're here please take a moment to check out our wedding venue details & images, you can schedule a venue tour or find us on your favorite social media platform: Facebook,Instagram & Pinterest.
The Views at Sunset Ridge is one of the top Tennessee mountain wedding venues in Chattanooga with stunning hillside views and a unique industrial farmhouse vibe. We can't wait to meet you & show you around our beautiful wedding spaces. contact@theviewsatsunsetridge.com | 423.458.7827 | 8150 Dalton Pike Cleveland, Tennessee
What Is a Save the Date? Save the Date cards are like a friendly "heads-up" to your guests, letting them know your wedding date well in advance. Their primary purpose is to allow your guests time to mark their calendar, make travel arrangements, and avoid scheduling conflicts.
Key Features of Save the Dates: Timing: These should generally be sent 6 to 8 months before the wedding. For destination weddings, send them even further in advance—12 months is ideal.
Details to Include: Stick to the basics here. Include your names, the wedding date, and the general location (such as “Chattanooga, Tennessee”). Style: Save the Dates can be fun and casual, giving a sneak peek into the wedding theme. Sending Save the Dates also signals to your guests that a formal invitation will follow. Think of it as the appetizer that builds excitement for the main course!
A Guide To RSVP's vs Save The Date's for Your Chattanooga Wedding
Here’s a list of 15 essential things to know about sending out wedding RSVPs for your Chattanooga wedding at The Views at Sunset Ridge:
Set a Clear RSVP Deadline: Give your guests a firm deadline, typically 4-6 weeks before the wedding, to allow time for final headcounts and vendor confirmations.
Include RSVP Details on Invitations: Clearly state how guests should RSVP (e.g., online, by mail, or both) and provide all necessary information.
Use a Wedding Website: If you have a wedding website, include the RSVP link on your invitations for a convenient digital option.
Account for Plus-Ones: Specify whether guests are allowed to bring a plus-one and include their name(s) on the RSVP card or form.
Include Meal Choices: If you’re offering a plated dinner, include meal options on the RSVP card for guests to select their preference.
Provide Pre-Stamped RSVP Cards: If you’re using traditional mail-in RSVPs, include pre-stamped and addressed return envelopes to make it easy for guests.
Be Clear About Kids: If your wedding is adults-only, politely note this on the RSVP card or invitation.
Track Responses Carefully: Use a spreadsheet or wedding planning app to keep track of who has RSVP’d and their responses.
Follow Up with Non-Responders: Be prepared to follow up with guests who haven’t RSVP’d by the deadline.
Consider Weather and Travel: Since The Views at Sunset Ridge is an outdoor venue, remind guests to plan for weather-appropriate attire and travel arrangements.
Include Accommodation Info: Provide details about nearby hotels or accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Mention Parking or Transportation: Let guests know about parking availability or if you’re providing shuttles to the venue.
Double-Check Guest Names: Ensure names are spelled correctly on RSVP cards to avoid confusion.
Plan for Special Requests: Include a space for guests to note dietary restrictions or other special needs.
Add a Personal Touch: Use the RSVP card to reflect your wedding theme or include a fun question, like “What song will get you on the dance floor?”
A Guide To RSVP's vs Save The Date's for Your Chattanooga Wedding
Here’s a list of 15 essential things to know about sending out wedding Save The Dates for your Chattanooga wedding at The Views at Sunset Ridge:
Timing is Key: Send your Save The Dates 6-8 months before the wedding to give guests ample time to plan, especially if they’re traveling to Chattanooga.
Include the Essentials: Make sure to include your names, wedding date, location (The Views at Sunset Ridge), and a note that a formal invitation will follow.
Highlight the Venue: Mention the stunning views and unique charm of The Views at Sunset Ridge to get guests excited about the location.
Design with Your Theme in Mind: Match the Save The Date design to your wedding theme or color palette for a cohesive look.
Add a Personal Touch: Consider including a photo of you and your partner, especially if you had an engagement session at The Views or another scenic Chattanooga spot.
Be Clear About Who’s Invited: Address the Save The Dates to the specific guests (e.g., “The Smith Family” or “John and Guest”) to avoid confusion.
Include a Wedding Website: If you have a wedding website, add the URL for more details like accommodations, travel tips, and things to do in Chattanooga.
Consider Local Chattanooga Flair: Incorporate elements like the Lookout Mountain silhouette or Tennessee wildflowers into your design for a regional touch.
Proofread Carefully: Double-check all details, especially the date and spelling of The Views at Sunset Ridge, to avoid any errors.
Choose the Right Format: Decide between postcards, magnets, or traditional cards based on your budget and style preferences.
Plan for Out-of-Town Guests: Include a note about nearby accommodations or block off rooms at hotels in Chattanooga.
Don’t Overload with Details: Save The Dates are just a teaser—save specifics like the ceremony time and dress code for the formal invitation. Order Extras: Always order a few extra Save The Dates for last-minute additions to your guest list or keepsakes.
Mail Strategically: Hand-deliver to local guests if possible, and double-check postage for out-of-state or international mail.
Have Fun with It: This is your chance to set the tone for your wedding—whether it’s formal, rustic, or whimsical, let your personality shine through!
A Guide To RSVP's vs Save The Date's for Your Chattanooga Wedding
These tips will help ensure a smooth RSVP process for your big day at The Views at Sunset Ridge! Let me know if you’d like help crafting the perfect RSVP wording or designing your cards.
Planning your big day? Schedule a venue tour with The Views at Sunset Ridge today to see the magic for yourself! The Views at Sunset Ridge is one of the top Tennessee mountain wedding venues in Chattanooga with stunning hillside views and a unique industrial farmhouse vibe.
While you're here please take a moment to check out our wedding venue details & images, you can schedule a venue tour or find us on your favorite social media platform: Facebook,Instagram & Pinterest.
contact@theviewsatsunsetridge.com | 423.458.7827 | 8150 Dalton Pike Cleveland, Tennessee
A Guide To RSVP's vs Save The Date's for Your Chattanooga Wedding
