There are many ways to be a courteous bride... welcome baskets, thank-you notes, beautiful wedding favors, but one of the nicest things you can do for your guests, is to let them know the specifics of your upcoming special event. Phone calls are nice but time consuming, and word-of-mouth announcements are helpful but unreliable. One of the best ways to ensure your guests reserve your wedding date is by announcing your wedding via "Save The Date" cards!

"Save The Date" cards are one of the hottest trends in wedding planning today, quickly changing their status from luxury to a necessity. Typically sent out four months before the wedding, "Save The Date" cards are a wonderful way of notifying friends and family of the upcoming event. The cards come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from a simple card listing the date and time of the wedding to beautifully designed booklets that list all the details of the upcoming event.

Elizabeth Scholma, owner of The Envelope, creates many stunning save-the-dates. The examples listed below include a postcard with the couple's favorite pet announcing the date to be saved. You'll also see foldouts of many varieties. The folded cards can be beautifully done in two fold, tri-fold, and even accordian style. Of course, Elizabeth never forgets to tie-in a sumptous ribbon as a special touch, which adds extra texture and elegance.

No doubt, out-of-town guests benefit the most from "Save The Date" cards since it gives them plenty of time to reserve the date, make all travel arrangements, and shop around for the most affordable travel deals without feeling rushed. More detailed "Save The Date" cards can list activities scheduled around the event so both the local and out-of-town guests get a perspective of the weekend agenda and plan accordingly.

Some couples may also choose a theme for their save-the-dates. Beth Barr, owner of Invitaire, gives us two examples of a "Meet me in St. Louis" theme. Although the theme is the same for both cards, each has a very distinct look. So no matter if your wedding incorporates contemporary or traditional elements, a great invitation designer can make sure that it's all reflected in your save-the-date design.

"Save The Date" cards are informal so design options are limitless. Some couples choose to coordinate the designs to match their wedding invitations, others may not. Retta Leritz, an artist and planning bride, designed her own save-the-dates incorporating her beautiful illustrations. She listed three very important years : In 1804 Lewis and Clark set forth to explore the unknown. In 1902 the first American Olympic Games, Louisiana Purchase Exposition, and the World's Fair. In 2004 After a seventeen month engagement, Eric DiFate and Retta Lertiz will declare their love. Retta also illustrated her stunning wedding invitations and a detailed map.

"Save The Date" cards can also serve as the wedding announcements.