“Mark your calendars” is a commonly used phrase to notify people of upcoming events or important dates. While it serves its purpose effectively, using a variety of alternative expressions can bring freshness, creativity, or a specific tone that better suits your context or audience.
Why Use Alternatives?
Using different ways to prompt someone about an upcoming date or event can add flavor and personality to your message. Depending on the situation, an alternative phrase can sound more professional, more casual, or more enthusiastic. Some alternatives convey urgency, while others maintain a friendly or formal tone. This flexibility makes your communication more tailored and engaging.
1. Save the Date
This phrase is frequently used for significant events like weddings, corporate conferences, or large gatherings. It conveys importance and suggests long-term planning.
Example: Save the date! Our annual company retreat is happening on July 15th. We’ll have team-building activities, guest speakers, and plenty of time to unwind together.
2. Don’t Forget to Jot This Down
A friendly, conversational expression that works well in informal settings. It feels like a personal reminder from someone who cares.
Example: Don’t forget to jot this down—our team meeting is scheduled for next Thursday at 3 PM. We’ve got some exciting updates to discuss!
3. Make a Note of This
This phrase is clear, professional, and commonly used in business or academic environments. It encourages the recipient to take the date seriously.
Example: Please make a note of this: The deadline for project submissions is August 20th. Late entries will not be accepted.
4. Put This on Your Calendar
A direct and assertive reminder, suitable for any setting where clarity and emphasis are important.
Example: Put this on your calendar—our quarterly review is on September 10th. Your input will be crucial to our planning.
5. Keep This Date in Mind
This polite and gentle nudge is great for events that are still a bit far off but worth remembering.
Example: Keep this date in mind: Our next client meeting is on March 5th. We’ll be reviewing the full scope of the upcoming campaign.
6. Block Off Your Schedule
A strong and slightly urgent call to reserve time. This is ideal when attendance is important or the event requires preparation.
Example: Block off your schedule for the workshop on November 8th—it’s a must-attend event with limited seating.
7. Set a Reminder for This
A modern phrase that encourages people to use digital tools like phone alarms or calendar apps to remember the date.
Example: Set a reminder for this: The registration deadline is next Friday. Late entries won’t be eligible for the early bird discount.
8. Circle the Date
Though it may sound a bit retro, this expression still resonates when you want to draw attention to a day in a fun or celebratory way.
Example: Circle the date—we’re celebrating our company’s 10th anniversary on June 1st with a big bash!
9. Reserve This Date
More formal than other expressions, this one works well for invitations, official events, or anything requiring RSVP.
Example: Please reserve this date for our annual fundraising gala on October 12th. Formal attire is required.
10. Make Room in Your Schedule
This phrase adds a friendly touch and acknowledges the recipient’s busy life while still requesting time.
Example: Make room in your schedule—we’re planning a team-building day next month and would love for you to be part of it.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right way to remind someone of a special date depends on who you’re talking to and what the occasion is. Whether you’re aiming for a formal tone, a casual nudge, or a fun heads-up, these alternatives to “mark your calendars” give you a variety of options to communicate effectively. Try mixing it up next time to keep your invitations or reminders fresh and memorable.
