Reception Invite help?

Question

Our church isn't large enough to hold all of our guests. So we are only having close family at the ceremony. How do I word an invitation to the reception only without offending anyone?

Answer 1

You need to send out two separate invitations.

On the first, word the invitation as you would for a wedding, and either include a reception card or put information about the reception on the invitation. These go to people who are going to the ceremony.

On the other, write the invitation for only the reception. Here's an idea:

Mr. and Mrs. Bride's Parents
and Mr. and Mrs. Groom's Parents
invite you to celebrate the marriage of their children
Bride
and
Groom
at an evening reception
at Reception Site
Address
Date
Time

Answer 2

By any chance are you having a buck and doe??

A wedding is not meant for the bride and groom to go broke, or in major debt, it is to celebrate a new beginning.

If you are having a buck and doe, let distant relatives and friends know that this is a place where you want to celebrate with them. Most people will understand not being invited to the church or reception because if they have been married, they know it is not cheap. ALso the buck and doe will help out with costs for the wedding, thats the whole point.

But if it is just the church, be honest with them!!let them know its not big enough.
This is your day, your perfect day. It should not be soo stressful.

Answer 3

While some people are going to tell you that this can't be done cause it looks like a money grab - the truth is that it is perfectly acceptable as gifts are never a reguired part of a wedding in any way.

ANYWAY - consider having the wedding vows taped and then showing the video as part of the reception so that your guests can view that special moment as well.

In the invitation, use:

INVITE YOU TO CELEBRATE THEIR UNION
WITH A RECEPTION IN THEIR HONOR

and end it with:
A TAPING OF THE CEREMONY WILL BE ENJOYED DURING THE RECEPTION.