Save The Dates

Before I get on with "Us - Part II", let's talk Save The Dates (I refuse to use the acronym.)

I want to send them out ASAP, but my wedding planner said I don't need to do it until January. 

My wedding is May 4th, 2013... but I'm so anxious! Since our guest list is so small, everyone on the list is very important to me!

Also, do people respond to Save The Dates to let you know they will be unable to make it, if they know that far out? I'm thinking it may help with some of the "A" list "B" list stuff... which I also have questions about! How can you have a second wave of invitations when people take SO LONG to RSVP to things!

My cousin's wedding is in 4 weeks and there is still a hefty portion of people who haven't responded at all! (Crazy)

Thoughts?

-Carolyn