Depends on whether you are having a wedding locally or a destination wedding. If traveling abroad you'll want to give more time as the guests would need to take time off of work, make travel arrangements. etc.
Sabrina February 10, 2008
Thanks for this information. I've been searching all day for this answer.
If you have friends and family that would be traveling from a great distance, or would have to make considerable arrangements to be at your wedding; the more time you can give them the better.
However, it's probably best to contact them personally with your date and information.
Customarily, the cards are sent within four to eight months of a wedding and include a wedding date and location. They may also include information about hotel, transportation and wedding activities.
A nice touch with Save The Date cards or invitations is to include an engagement photo, for relatives or friends who may not have had the opportunity to meet your fiance. (Also, for the ones you have not seen in a while)