Reception Invitations - The No-nonsense Guide

Outer envelopes

Outer envelopes. Inner envelopes. Response cards. Who knew ordering wedding invites could be so complicated? It can be even more puzzling if you're not hosting a traditional ceremony-plus reception event. This question and answer guide will help you figure out how and when to use reception invitations--sometimes referred to as reception-only invites--in place of traditional wedding invitations.

Why do I need separate reception invitations?

There's no shortage of reasons you might need to turn to reception invites. Here are a few:

*Destination wedding - Whether your nuptials will be on a romantic Mexican beach or in a breathtaking Scottish castle, chances are that some of your family and friends won't be able to make the trip. It's common for couples married away from home to hold a celebration after their return. Reception invitations announce your marriage to potential guests as well as give them the party details.

*Space limitations - Dream of getting married on a small boat in the middle of the pond where you and your future spouse met? Is your ceremony going to be in the same 35 seat chapel where your great-grandmother was married? Space constraints can force you to downsize your special event. Just like traditional wedding invite, reception invitations will let guests know that you still want them to share in a part of the joyous celebrations.

*Nuptial nerves- From tripping down the aisle, to fumbled vows, you might have paralyzing fears that keep you from performing the ceremony in front of hundreds of guests. Since your wedding day is meant to be one of the happiest days of your life, you should feel comfortable. A private ceremony followed by a more public reception can eliminate those performance jitters that could dampen the day.

We're having a private and small ceremony. Do I need separate invitations for guests who are invited to both the ceremony and reception than I do for those who are invited to the reception only?

You don't need to go through the trouble or expense of printing two sets of invitations. In fact, experts in wedding etiquette suggest printing reception invites. For guests who will be invited to the private ceremony also, you can personally invite them, or send along a handwritten note.

Is there "proper" wording for reception invitations?

Just like traditional wedding invitations, you'll want to use wording that suits the style of your event, whether it's formal and traditional or fun and casual. If you're stumped, here's sample wording for your invites:

Mr. and Mrs. [name of bride's parents] invite you to a reception in honor of Mr. and Mrs. [your married name] at [time] [name of location] [city and state]

Regardless of whether you choose traditional or casual wording, etiquette experts suggest that you avoid listing a time or place for the actual ceremony--that helps ensure your office intern doesn't show up for the small, family-only ceremony you'd planned. Instead simply list the time and place of the reception.

by: Rose Watson

POST COMMENT

Converting Paper Files To Cad Is A Simple, Cost Effective Solution Startling Facts About gall bladder That Will Interest You Watch Out Leather Watch Is Not Just Telling Time These Days Obtain The Most Handy Lg Venus Skin Covers Easily Just What Sort Of Limousine Must Be Hired On Your Prom Night Measuring The Significance Of Life Benefits Of Wearing Contact Lens Souffl Pearls Were A Big Draw At The Agta Show In Tucson This Year Bottlecap Oakley Sun Glasses Choosing A Right Type Of Label Buy Magic Jack Exploit Ani Removal - Beware! Where To Get A Good Chronograph Watch