Send wedding invitations to individuals you are unable to invite. A wedding announcement card, similar to putting an announcement in the local paper, includes all the important data about your big day so loved ones can choose to celebrate your union with a card or present (don't forget to send out those thank-you cards, too!). You can also include information on where and when to meet up with your guests if you don't live near each other. Announcements are sent during the first year after a marriage license has been signed into law. The card should be sent to all known relatives of the couple. It is customary for the bride's parents to provide funds for this purpose if the couple does not have enough money themselves. Announcing your intention to marry gives family members time to prepare for the event and allows them to extend invitations to others who may not otherwise heard of the marriage plan. Couples use the announcement card to inform their families about their marriage plans as well as its timing. They should write a short but sweet message on the card to let everyone know what has happened and why they have chosen to get married now. Include any special dates or events that you want to hold close to your heart but might not have had time for yet. After you receive your wedding announcement, put it away out of sight for a few days.