Save the date invitations are like pre-invitations. While a regular invitation will have all sorts of details about the event at hand, where it's going to be, when it's going to be and what the guest should bring, wear or expect to happen at the event, a save the date invitation simply notifies the recipient of the upcoming event. Unlike a detailed invitation, a save the date card tells the recipient only what kind of event will be happening and when. It is left unsaid -- in most cases -- that an actual invitation will be following up the save the date invitation in a few weeks.
Traditionally save the date invitations are used for weddings, engagement parties, bachelor parties, bridal showers and other formal events. But really, you are free to choose any event you would like to send out save the date invitations for. These days, pool parties, swim parties and holiday parties are all equally important, so why not make sure your invited guests are able to attend by letting them know of the date very early in the game?
Prom Invitations