Save the Dates during covid

You definitely dont want to unite anyone and unfortunately with COVID theres not a 100% surefire way to know how many people you'll be able to have a week from now let alone several months from now. I would assume your max capacity at 150 to be safe. With the wedding so far away you cant really rely on RSVPs because a lot can change in a month and those same people may not be able to come.

Or whatever your max capacity is when you go to send your invitations.

Hi Lauren!! This is a very good question. For me, I had called so many family to get a temperature on how people were feeling (coming or not) and in my experience, this also changes on a dime. Guests that told us at the end of July they would be there changed their minds when push came to shove. I will say we had most come (162 invited and 104 attended, 110 rsvped Yes).
As someone who did have to un-invite over 150 guests, I don’t blame you ❤️ I hope this helps fellow covid bride ❤️❤️❤️

We’re doing minimal save the dates for this reason, & only inviting a core, must attend group. This past summer the limit was 50 indoors so we’re working with that assumption (it’s even less now, 10 indoors). If we can only have 50 (guest list is 150) we plan on inviting the core list (immediate family, wedding party, & associated partners) to the ceremony & postponing the reception. For you, the 50% idea seems like a good one if it’s been consistent!

People do not respond to save the dates as they would a regular invite. A save the date, once it is sent, is not able to be revoked. You must send an invite as a follow up. Make a list of your absolute must have guests you cannot imagine the day without. This list is not people you are inviting to please parents and others who are not getting married. Whoever is on that list gets a save the date and invite. Everyone else gets announcement after the wedding.


Do not make a B list. Many people say rules don't apply during Covid but that is not true. Stick to proper etiquette even more diligently now to navigate the sticky social situations it was intended for. No one will ever tell the couple they are upset so don't assume guests are ok with whatever you throw their way. People do know when they are afterthoughts.

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Hi Michelle!!

I totally agree!! People will know! I've gotten a list together of a core 130 people for a 50% capacity. I know not all will come even for that if COVID numbers are still high and that's okay! I know atleast that these are our CORE people. So right now... we're running with the thought that capacity will be higher come summer.. and we'll stick to our 130 people invited!

Such stressful times! Thank you for your input!