Invitation To Wedding Reception And Not To Ceremony

by Emily Post

Invitation To WEDDING Reception And Not To Ceremony

It sometimes happens that the bride prefers none but her family at the ceremony, and a big reception. This plan is chosen where the mother of the bride or other very near relative is an invalid. The ceremony may take place at a bedside, or it may be that the invalid can go down to the drawing-room with only the immediate families, and is unequal to the presence of many people.

Under these circumstances the invitations to the breakfast or reception are sent on sheets of note paper like that used for church invitations, but the wording is:

 

The "pleasure of your company" is requested in this case instead of the "honour of your presence."

Sometimes the wedding ceremony is rather private, and only certain family members and close friends are invited to see the bride and groom officially tie the knot. But the reception might welcome many more people as guests to this event. In that case, the wedding and reception invitations need to be sent out separately.

When the invitees to the wedding ceremony call to confirm that they will be attending, they will no doubt ask about the reception, if those invitations have not yet been received. This gives the host and hostess, or usually the parents of the bride, the opportunity to let the ceremony invitees know that they will be receiving a separate invitation for the reception.

The wedding reception is usually held on the same day, shortly after the wedding, but it might be at a different location. And sometimes the reception, or party is held on a different day, perhaps at a club or a hall. All this needs to be communicated to invited guests. Therefore, the reception invitation needs the same detailed information as the wedding invitation. It needs to know that the bride and groom are looking forward to their presence to celebrate their special day. It also has to list the address, day, date, and time that the party will take place, and the attire should also be addressed.

In short, just as much care and attention needs to be given to the reception invitation as the wedding ceremony, even if there are two sets of guests.
Special thanks to Emily Post on her wonderful tips on etiquette and invites.
Wedding Reception Invite Only

Immediate Invites