How to create a save the date template on DTP

Save the dates cards are great ways to give friends and family a heads up on your impending nuptials. Many couples, as soon as they have their date reserved, send out these cards to allow for schedules to be cleared and travel plans to be made. Save the date cards are simple to create on your own, by using stationery, a computer, and a printer.

What you'll need

You'll need all the usual essentials, like card stock, photographs and desktop word processor. Choose a word processor program from your computer, such as Microsoft Word or Open Office. You can even use software programs such as Microsoft Publishing, Print Shop, or Paint. Post card option No matter which software you choose, make sure that you are familiar with the application. Choose the post card option in your software. Using this option will allow you to get four cards on a single sheet of card-stock and save on postage, by using postcard stamps instead of letter stamps. If using Microsoft Word, you will find the post card template under making labels, envelopes and mailings.

Section one

Based on the theme of your wedding, create the style of your save the date card. Start with your wedding colours. This will set the tone of your card from elegant, to casual, or even whimsical. Add your details. Your card should say something like this, "Save the date! Please mark your calendars with our wedding date. There will be an Invitation to Follow. There is a long list of different types of fonts to be used on your save the date card. Pick one that compliments the tone and style of your card.

Section two

Import photo or clip art to your card design. Keep it simple and not overbearing. Print out your save the date announcements postcards, making sure to do a test print first. If the test print turns out okay, print the rest of the cards you need and a few extra in case of printing errors or forgotten relatives. Cut or tear apart into individual postcards. Remember to keep it simple. Stick to the basic information. Send out as soon as you know your date is confirmed or between three to five months ahead of time.

You may also want to consider

Going online to some wedding sites Here, you'll find wedding websites templates and designs, including email wedding invitations and save the date emails. Usually, you can just choose save the date templates to personalise from the personal wedding websites. You could even create a wedding website and email a link to your friends and family, so that they can view all the up-to-date information about your impending nuptials.