Your save the date is the very first peek your guests get at your wedding…so why would you settle for basic? Couples everywhere are getting creative with unique save the dates that show off their personality, hint at their wedding vibe, and get guests excited to RSVP “yes.”
From magnets to keepsakes your friends will actually keep, here are seven ideas that go beyond ordinary paper cards and make your announcement unforgettable.
1. Save the Date Magnets
Magnets are one of the easiest ways to make sure your date actually stays top of mind—and top of fridge! Not only are save the date magnets functional, but they’re also a subtle way to keep your wedding countdown front and center in your guests’ daily lives.
We love that you can customize everything from fonts to photos to match your wedding vibe. Companies like Shutterfly offer endless magnet styles (minimalist, floral, retro, you name it) so your design feels completely personal.
Pro tip: Include your wedding website on the magnet so guests have one place to RSVP, book travel, and check out your registry.
Pro Planning Tip: Use Pearl Planner, the free AI-powered wedding planning tool from David’s, to stay on track with all your paper deadlines—from when to mail save the dates to when to send invitations. Plus, Pearl Planner gives you access to partner perks from Shutterfly and more!
2. Polaroid-Inspired Cards
Bring on the nostalgia with a save the date that looks like an instant photo. Whether you use a real Polaroid snap from your engagement session or a digital template, this idea feels playful and personal—like guests are part of your love story!
3. “Ticket for Admission” Save the Dates
Turn your save the date into an actual ticket! This is especially perfect if your wedding venue is a place that typically requires tickets for entry—think unique spots like a museum, zoo, baseball park, concert hall, or even a vintage theater.
Include clever touches like a seat number (table assignment hint!), “doors open” time, and fun tear-off stubs. Guests will love the creativity, and it sets the tone for a wedding that’s more experience than event.
4. Vintage Postcard Save the Dates
Skip the envelope and go full retro with a vintage-inspired postcard. Choose a design that features an old-school “Greetings From…” motif or a hand-drawn map of your wedding location. This option is budget-friendly (lower postage!), sustainable, and extra cute for destination weddings—it’s like you’re mailing a little vacay preview!
5. Playing Card Save the Dates
Deal your guests in with a custom playing card save the date! Print your wedding date and venue on the card face, then use the back for a favorite engagement photo. It’s quirky, fun, and something guests might actually keep long after the big day!
6. Illustrated Portraits
Commission a custom illustration of you and your partner, your venue, or even your pets. This unique keepsake doubles as a piece of art that guests will want to hang on to long after the wedding. Illustrated save the dates feel personal, creative, and completely one-of-a-kind…a perfect way to showcase your personalities.
Pro tip: You don’t have to be a professional artist! You can hire a freelance illustrator online or even create your own drawing or digital artwork and upload the image file to Shutterfly to turn it into a polished save the date card. This way, you get the custom look with professional-quality printing.
7. Interactive Puzzle Pieces
Turn your save the date into a game! A puzzle or scratch-off design adds a playful twist and ensures your guests really engage with your big news. It’s a small touch that creates a memorable moment.
Tie It All Together
Your save the date serves as the first chapter of your wedding story. Whether you choose save the date magnets, a ticket-style card, or a playful puzzle, the best designs feel like you.
When you’re ready to create your own, platforms like Shutterfly make it easy to design everything from magnets to postcards that match your wedding style. And to keep the planning part stress-free, try using Pearl Planner. It lets you track to-dos (like when to send save the dates and wedding invites), manage your bridesmaid looks, and even access partner perks—including easy integrations with Shutterfly to design your stationery!
Looking for more inspo? Check out Pearl by David’s for all the latest trends, advice, and more.
