Save the date size: card sizes, envelopes and mailing

The most common save the date size is 5 x 7 inches, mailed in an A7 envelope. 4 x 6 inch postcards are the other popular choice, because they can mail without an envelope at the lower postcard rate. A2 (4.25 x 5.5 in) and A6 (4.5 x 6.25 in) cards are also common. This guide covers save the date sizes, matching envelopes, mailing rules, timing and paper.

Standard save the date sizes

• 5 x 7 in: the most popular size, the same as most wedding invitations. Mails in an A7 envelope, 5.25 x 7.25 in.
• 4 x 6 in postcard: mails on its own at the postcard rate, with the address and stamp on the back.
• A6, 4.5 x 6.25 in: a mid-size card that mails in an A6 envelope, 4.75 x 6.5 in.
• A2, 4.25 x 5.5 in: a smaller card that mails in an A2 envelope, 4.375 x 5.75 in.
• Square, 5.25 x 5.25 in or 6 x 6 in: a distinctive shape, but square envelopes need extra postage.

Our envelope size chart lists every card size with the envelope that fits it.

Mailing rules

• USPS mail must be at least 3.5 x 5 in.
• A card mails at the postcard rate only if it is no larger than 4.25 x 6 in and between 0.007 and 0.016 in thick. A 4 x 6 in postcard on standard cover stock qualifies.
• Larger cards, such as 5 x 7 in, mail at the letter rate, usually in an envelope.
• Square envelopes and very thick or rigid cards need extra postage because they cannot go through sorting machines.

Weigh one finished card before you buy stamps, and confirm current rates with USPS. Our postcard size guide covers postcard mailing in more detail.

When to send save the dates

Save the dates usually go out six to eight months before the wedding. For destination weddings and holiday weekends, eight to twelve months gives guests time to book travel. Invitations follow about six to eight weeks before the date.

What to include

• Your names
• The date
• The city and state, or the venue if it is set
• Your wedding website, if you have one
• A line such as "Formal invitation to follow"

A photo of the two of you is common on save the dates. Keep the rest of the card simple, since the invitation will carry the full details.

Paper for save the dates

Save the dates are usually printed on 100 lb to 130 lb cover, or 110 lb cotton for a heavier card. Postcards need a stiff stock so they hold up in the mail. Uncoated and matte papers suit most designs, and a matte or silk finish prints photographs well. Plantable seed paper save the dates are a popular eco-friendly choice for simple, bold designs. Our guide to eco-friendly save the dates covers more options.

To keep your stationery matched, see our wedding invitations, recycled envelopes and our guide to wedding program sizes.

Common questions

What size is a save the date card?

The most common size is 5 x 7 inches. 4 x 6 inch postcards and A2 cards (4.25 x 5.5 inches) are also popular.

What size envelope fits a 5 x 7 save the date?

An A7 envelope, which measures 5.25 x 7.25 inches.

Can a save the date be mailed as a postcard?

Yes. A card up to 4.25 x 6 inches on standard card stock mails at the postcard rate without an envelope.

When should save the dates be sent?

Six to eight months before the wedding, or eight to twelve months for destination weddings.