[Frenchybaby]

Hi there I am trying to find a schedule or guideline i can go by to plan my Destination wedding. I live in Chicago, IL and we are planning our wedding for May 2007 in Playa Del carmen, Mexico.

When should all invitations be sent out by, showers be held, and all the details of wedding planning be scheduled for a destination wedding? I know it is different to allow ample time for guests to plan and save, etc.

Thanks!

Nicole

[Etiquette Now]

Dear Nicole,

Any wedding etiquette book, such as Emily Post's Wedding Etiquette or the Bride's Book of Etiquette has a timeline. Actually, I even have a booklet just of the timeline. These are for the average wedding.

For you destination wedding, all of the timing would basically be the same except for the invitations. It is best to send Save the Dates as early as a year in advance. Six months is fine, but you are cutting it close for those who need to save or plan for vacation. If you send these, you can send your invitations up to two months before your wedding.

If you don't use Save the Dates, it would be nice to verbally inform your guests about the trip and accommodations. So, they may plan. Send your invitations no later than two months before your wedding. Three months is fine. But, if you send them farther out, you run the risk of your guests putting these away and forgetting to schedule their trip.

Best wishes,