10 Unique Save the Dates on Etsy

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Today's blog post is for all the future brides and grooms (and also, let's be honest, the people like me who just love weddings)! My plan is for this to be the first in a series of posts highlighting some of the amazing wedding items available on Etsy--first up: save the dates! 

Save the dates are increasingly important these days! Many couples are opting for destination weddings, but even hometown weddings are increasingly likely to include guests who live far away and will need to make travel plans, so making sure everyone on your invite list has your date on the calendar well in advance is a must! Not to mention, save the dates are fun way to get creative, set the tone for your wedding, and get your guests excited about celebrating with you!

There are so many styles available! How about this trendy watercolor ombre design by Dreaming In Paper? This look is perfect for a beach wedding at sunset, don't you think?

For couples planning a wedding full of COLOR and gorgeous flowers, I'm in love with this beautiful floral design by The Papered Wedding. (Bonus: this one's a magnet!)

Or how about this adorable confetti design by ARELOR? Doesn't it just scream FUN?!

Of course, as a photographer, I'm partial to save the dates that use engagement photos, and I love how this one by Sweet Invitation Co. incorporates lovely lettering while also letting the photo take center stage. 

On the other hand, save the dates are also a great place for a custom illustration like this fabulous beauty by Kathryn Selbert Illustration

If you're planning a destination wedding, or if where you live is a "destination" for most of your guests, it's fun to create a save the date that highlights that place. For a wedding in the mountains, I love this dreamy outdoorsy design by Rosey Paperie

If you really want to get your guests inspired by the locale and geared up to plan a mini-vacay, why not go ahead and supply a helpful (and cute!) map highlighting all the fun things to do near your venue? Carol of CW Designs (aka The Map Chick) has tons of these in her shop, but of course I especially love this precious map of New Orleans. (P.S. Shooting a New Orleans wedding is on my bucket list!) 

Corny or not, I gotta admit I'm also a fan of save the dates that include a tangible object (and a clever play on words.) If you've got bibliophiles on your guest list, this bookmark by Raspberry Creative is sure to be a hit! 

For a not-so-subtle hint about the, um, post-ceremony libations you have planned, how about this playful coaster by Attitude & Gratitude?

And last but not least, what guest could resist this cute little personalized pencil by Secret Creation?

So, which one's your favorite? Let me know what you think in the comments! And if you don't want to miss the rest of this series, be sure to sign up below to get on the email list! :)