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When to send wedding invitations: a desi wedding timeline

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By the Ivory Gate team, Surrey BC1 min read

In short

Send save-the-dates 3–6 months ahead (earlier if relatives fly in from abroad), the full invitation 6–8 weeks before, and set the RSVP deadline 3–4 weeks before so caterers get final numbers. Visit elders in person with a card and mithai, then send the link with all the details.

The timeline

  1. 016–12 months: book the Gurdwara, temple or venues and fix dates.
  2. 023–6 months: send save-the-dates, especially to family who need visas or flights.
  3. 036–8 weeks: send the full invitation with every function.
  4. 046 weeks: visit elders in person with mithai and a printed or Keepsake Card.
  5. 053–4 weeks: RSVP deadline. Give per-function numbers to the caterer and hall.
  6. 061 week: send a reminder link for the mehndi/sangeet and share parking details.

Guests coming from India, the UK or the US

Give overseas relatives the most notice. Visa appointments and flights can take months, so send them a save-the-date as soon as dates are fixed, and include hotel blocks and airport pickup details on the invitation.

Frequently asked questions

How many weeks before the wedding should invitations go out?

Six to eight weeks before the wedding is typical, with save-the-dates 3–6 months ahead for out-of-town guests.

When should the RSVP deadline be?

Three to four weeks before the wedding, so you can give the caterer and venue final per-function numbers.

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