Guide To Including Reception Details In Wedding Invites

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are a few different ways to go about including reception information. Some people opt for a separate reception card, which is considered the most etiquette-correct way, especially if the ceremony and reception are at different venues. This additional card can be included with the rest of the invitation suite, providing guests with all the information they need in one place. It should include the name and address of the reception venue, as well as the start and end times. Directions or transportation information from the ceremony to the reception venue can also be helpful.

However, if you want to save costs or keep things simple, you can include the reception information on the wedding invitation itself. This is typically done when the ceremony and reception are at the same venue, with wording such as and afterward at the reception or reception immediately following. When the reception is at a different venue, it is customary to include the location on a separate line. Be sure to include the time if the reception is not immediately following the ceremony.

Include reception information on the wedding invitation itself

If you want to include reception details on the wedding invitation, you can do so by adding a simple line such as "reception to follow" or "and afterward at the reception". If the reception is at a different venue, you can add the location on a separate line. If there is a time gap between the ceremony and reception, be sure to include the start time of the reception so that guests know what to expect.

• "Reception to follow at [address]"
• "Reception immediately following at [address]"
• "Cocktails, dinner and dancing to follow at [address]"
• "And afterward at the reception at [address]"

If you want to include more details about the reception, you can use a slightly longer phrase such as:

• "Please join us following the ceremony for a reception"
• "Let's Party! Join us for a reception of cocktails, dinner, and dancing following the ceremony"

If you are having a very formal wedding, you may want to include the reception information on a separate card. However, if you are having a less formal event, or if you want to save money, you can include all the information on the wedding invitation itself.

"Friday, the eighteenth of August

Two thousand and seventeen

At three in the afternoon

Reception to follow at six in the evening

[reception address]"

Add a separate reception card to the invitation suite

If your wedding ceremony and reception are at different venues, it's a good idea to include a separate reception card with your invitation suite. This ensures that your guests have all the information they need in one place. The reception card should include the name and address of the venue, as well as the start and end times. You may also want to include directions or information about pre-arranged transportation from the ceremony to the reception venue.

The reception card is also a great place to include shuttle information, if applicable. For instance, if you're providing a shuttle service between the ceremony and reception locations, include those details here.

If you have a lot of out-of-town guests or your wedding is in a location with complicated travel, it's a nice touch to include accommodation information on a separate card. Provide details such as where you've reserved a block of rooms, contact information for booking, and any promo codes or discounts. Alternatively, you can direct guests to your wedding website, where they can find all the necessary information.

Another option for the additional card is to outline other events during the wedding weekend, such as a welcome party, rehearsal dinner, or a send-off brunch. This helps to showcase the wedding and reception as the main event while letting guests know they're covered for the entire celebration.

Finally, the extra card can be a great way to include custom artwork or a personal touch. For example, you could include a map or illustration of the venue, a vintage photo, or a fun pattern.

Outline the details of the reception venue

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are many ways to outline the details of the reception venue. Here are some instructive and focused guidelines on how to do this:

Include All the Necessary Details

Provide essential information such as the location, address, and start and end times of the reception venue. If the reception is at a different location from the ceremony, it is helpful to include directions or transportation arrangements between the two venues to ensure your guests can easily navigate their way.

Use Clear and Concise Wording

Clearly indicate that the reception will follow the ceremony. You can use various phrases such as "Reception to follow", "And afterward at the reception", or "Reception immediately following". If there is a gap between the ceremony and reception, be sure to specify the start time of the reception so that guests know what to expect.

Provide Dress Code Information

Inform guests of the dress code or attire expectations for the reception. This is especially important if you are having a formal event or a celebration with a specific theme, such as a rustic barn wedding.

Consider a Separate Reception Card

If your invitation card is short on space, you can include a separate reception card with the venue details. This is the most etiquette-correct way, especially for formal invitations, and it helps keep the main invitation clean and uncluttered.

Online RSVP and Website Details

If you are using online RSVPs, be sure to mention this on the invitation or reception card, along with the deadline for responses. You can also include your wedding website link to provide guests with additional information, such as accommodation options, directions, and other wedding-related events.

Examples of Reception Wording

• "Join us following the ceremony for a reception."
• "Please join us for drinks, dinner, and dancing immediately following the ceremony."
• "Let's Party! Join us for a reception of cocktails, dinner, and dancing following the ceremony."
• "Reception to follow at [reception venue name and address]."
• "And afterward, join us for cocktails, dinner, and dancing at [reception venue name and address]."

Include directions from the ceremony to the reception venue

When including directions from the ceremony to the reception venue, there are a few different approaches you can take. Here are some options to consider:

Insert Card

One option is to include an insert card along with your wedding invitation. This card can provide details such as the reception venue name and address, as well as any relevant directions or transportation instructions. This approach helps to keep the main invitation uncluttered and ensures that guests have all the necessary information in one place.

Same Card

Alternatively, you can include the reception information on the same card as the wedding invitation. This can be done by adding a line such as "Reception to follow at [name and address of reception venue]." This approach can be more cost-effective, but it's important to consider the amount of information that will be included on the invitation to ensure it doesn't become too wordy or crowded.

Website Details

If you have a wedding website, you can include its URL on a separate insert card. This allows guests to refer to the website for more detailed information, such as maps, directions, and other relevant details. This approach can be especially useful if your wedding involves multiple events or locations.

Map Insert

Consider including a small map or diagram insert with your invitations. This can be a fun and visual way to provide directions from the ceremony to the reception venue. It adds a creative touch to your invitations while also ensuring that guests have a clear understanding of the location and how to get there.

Timing and Details

When providing reception information, be sure to include the time, especially if the reception is not immediately following the ceremony. You can also include other relevant details, such as dinner, dancing, or any other activities that will be taking place.

Remember to consider the format and wording of your invitations to ensure they align with the tone and style of your wedding. You can choose to keep the wording formal or opt for a more casual and whimsical approach.

Add reception details to a wedding website

A wedding website is a great way to provide your guests with all the information they need in one place. It's also a good idea to include a wedding website card with your invitations, so guests know to refer to it for more details. Here are some tips for adding reception details to your wedding website:

• Include all the important details: Make sure to include the location, date, and time of your reception, as well as any other relevant information such as dress code, transportation, or accommodation options.
• Provide clear directions: If your ceremony and reception are at different venues, include directions on your website so guests can easily navigate between the two locations.
• Consider including an RSVP feature: This will make it easy for guests to confirm their attendance and for you to keep track of your guest list.
• Share a link to your registry: While it's considered a faux pas to include registry information directly on your invitations, it's perfectly acceptable to include a link to your wedding registry on your website.
• Keep your website up-to-date: If any details about your reception change, be sure to update your website accordingly. This will help ensure that your guests have the most accurate information.
• Make your website mobile-friendly: Opt for a responsive design that looks good and functions well on all devices, so guests can easily access the information they need on their phones.
• Include contact information: Provide an email address or phone number that guests can use to reach you with any questions or concerns.
• Add some personal touches: Your wedding website doesn't have to be all business! Feel free to include some fun details, such as how you and your partner met, or a photo gallery of your favourite snapshots.
• Proofread and test your website: Before making your website live, carefully review all the information for accuracy and correct any errors. Test the website on different devices and browsers to ensure it looks and functions correctly.

By following these tips, you can create a comprehensive and user-friendly wedding website that will help your guests feel informed and excited about your upcoming celebration.

Frequently asked questions