Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Reception Location Mention

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are a few different ways to go about including reception details. If the ceremony and reception are held at the same venue, a simple Reception to follow or Dinner and dancing to follow at the bottom of the invitation is sufficient. However, if the reception is at a different location, it should be treated as a separate event, with its own invitation or insert card. This additional card should include the name and address of the venue, as well as start and end times, and directions or transportation information if needed. It's also important to maintain consistent wording and formatting between the invitation and any additional cards.

Include an insert card for reception details

If you want to keep your wedding invitation simple and elegant, you can include an insert card with all the reception details. This is a good option if your ceremony and reception are at separate venues, or if you want to include a lot of extra details.

The insert card should include the name and address of the reception venue, as well as the start and end times. You could also include directions from the ceremony venue to the reception venue, or a note about pre-arranged transportation.

• 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.

If your ceremony and reception are on the same day and at the same venue, you can simply include a line on your invitation such as "reception to follow". If there is a gap between the ceremony and reception, you might want to include the reception start time.

If you are having a very small and intimate ceremony, followed by a larger reception, you will need to be clear about this on your insert card. Here are some examples of wording for this situation:

• The pleasure of your company is requested at a private ceremony.
• Please join us for an intimate ceremony.

You could also include a personal note on the insert card, explaining to your guests why you have chosen to have an intimate ceremony.

Other details to include

In addition to the practical details about the reception, you might want to include some extra information for your guests. This could be included on the insert card, or on a separate card. Here are some ideas:

• Attire or dress code
• Accommodation options, especially if you have arranged a special rate for guests
• Parking arrangements, including any recommendations for parking locations and whether overnight parking is allowed
• Transport details, for example, if you are laying on any transport for guests between the ceremony and reception venues
• Menu choices, if guests have the option to pre-order
• Gift registry details, although this is considered a faux pas by some
• Your wedding website, where guests can find more information

Put reception details on the same card as the ceremony invite

If you are hosting your wedding ceremony and reception at different venues, it is a good idea to include a separate reception card with your invitation. This ensures that your guests have all the information they need in one place. However, if you would like to keep costs down, or you prefer the simplicity of a single invitation, you can include the reception details on the same card as the ceremony invite. Here are some tips for putting reception details on the same card:

Include the Full Address and Contact Details for the Reception Venue

Provide the full address and postcode of the reception venue so that your guests can easily find it. If the venue is in a remote location or is difficult to find, you could also include brief directions. You may also want to include the website of the venue, especially if it has useful information such as maps and directions.

Mention Parking Arrangements

It is helpful to include information about parking at the reception venue. For example, if parking is limited, you could suggest alternative parking locations. You may also want to mention if overnight parking is allowed at the venue.

Provide Transport Details

If you are providing transport for your guests from the ceremony to the reception, include brief details such as the pick-up and return times and locations.

Include Accommodation Options

If there is accommodation available for guests at the reception venue or nearby, provide these details. Include any special rates available and instructions on how to book. You can also suggest alternative accommodation options at different price points.

Specify the Menu

If you are offering your guests a choice of menu options, include this information on the invitation. You should also ask for dietary requirements when your guests reply, either via an RSVP card, phone, email, or your wedding website.

State the Dress Code

If you have a specific dress code for your wedding, such as black tie or formal attire, include this information on the invitation.

Provide Timing Details

Your main invitation should state the ceremony time, but you may also want to include the time you would like your guests to arrive. For example, if you are serving arrival drinks before the ceremony, let your guests know so they don't miss out! You can also include the end time of the reception, for example, "Carriages at midnight".

Include RSVP Details

Don't forget to include an RSVP date, preferably at least two weeks before your wedding, and let your guests know how to RSVP, such as by providing a pre-addressed envelope or directing them to an email address or website.

Make it clear you're already married

When it comes to wedding invitations, it's important to be clear about what guests are being invited to, especially if the ceremony and reception are separate or if the couple is already married. Here are some tips and suggestions for making it clear that the couple is already married:

Wording and Language Choice:

• Avoid using phrases that hint at guests witnessing the marriage, such as "witness," "view," or "presence at their wedding." Instead, focus on celebrating the union.
• Use phrases such as "already married reception," "post-wedding celebration," or "reception-only wedding."
• Be explicit about the fact that the ceremony has already taken place. For example, "We tied the knot! Our ceremony was small, but our love isn't, and neither is our desire to share the joy with you. Come celebrate with a big bash honouring our love."
• If the couple has eloped, had a destination wedding, or hosted a private ceremony, mention this and explain that the reception is an opportunity to share the joy with a wider circle of loved ones.

Invitation Design and Structure:

• Consider including an extra card or insert with the invitation suite that specifically mentions the reception and provides relevant details.
• If the ceremony and reception are held on the same day, the reception invitation can be the main invitation, with an additional card for those invited to the ceremony.
• If the reception is held separately, it is usually best to include the reception details on a separate card or insert to avoid overcrowding the main invitation.
• If cost is a concern, some couples choose to include the reception details on the back of the main invitation, but this may not be as well-received.

Timing and Guest List Management:

• If the ceremony and reception are held on the same day, consider having the ceremony earlier to allow ample time for celebrations and photos before the reception guests arrive.
• Create two separate guest lists: one for guests invited to both the ceremony and reception, and another for those invited to only the reception.
• Be firm with your guest list decisions. Some guests may pressure you to invite them to the ceremony as well, but it's important to stick to your original plan.
• If the ceremony and reception are held on different days, you have more flexibility with timing but also more planning to consider.

Remember, the key is to provide clear and concise information while also reflecting the joy and excitement of the occasion.

Include all the details: location, address, attire, after-party details

When it comes to wedding invitations, it's important to include all the essential details so that your guests can plan and prepare for your big day. Here are some tips for including the location, address, attire, and after-party details:

Location and Address

The wedding invitation should mention the venue for both the ceremony and the reception. If they are at the same place, you can simply write "and afterward at the reception" or "reception immediately following." However, if they are at separate venues, it's helpful to include the full address, postcode, and even brief directions, especially if the venue is off the beaten track. You can also include the websites of the venues if they have useful information like maps and directions.

Attire

Including a dress code on your invitation ensures your event stays as formal or casual as you want. You can be explicit by using terms like "black tie," "formal attire," or "cocktail attire." Alternatively, subtle hints such as wording, font choices, colours, and design flourishes can also convey the expected attire. For instance, a formal affair typically uses traditional phrasing like "request the honour of your presence." In contrast, a more casual invitation might use a fun script or chalkboard style print.

After-Party Details

If you plan to continue the celebration after the reception, be sure to include these details on your invitation. You can simply write "and afterward at the after-party" or "after-party immediately following." If the after-party is at a separate venue, include the name and address. If it's at the same location but in a different area, you can provide brief directions, such as "head to the garden terrace." Include the start and end times of the after-party, if applicable.

Combining Details

If you have a lot of details to include, consider using a separate details card or enclosure card. This can be included with your invitation and allows you to provide extra information without cluttering your invitation design. You can also direct guests to your wedding website, where they can find additional information.

Include RSVP cards

When it comes to wedding invitations, RSVP cards are essential. They allow you to confirm your guest list and ensure you have the correct number of attendees for your venue and caterer. Here are some tips and suggestions for including RSVP cards with your wedding invitations:

The Importance of RSVP Cards

RSVP cards are crucial for gathering the necessary information from your guests. They allow your guests to confirm their attendance, indicate the number of people attending, and provide any additional details you may need for planning purposes. This information is vital for finalising details with your venue and caterer, so it's important to set an RSVP deadline and encourage your guests to respond by that date.

What to Include on the RSVP Card

There are several key pieces of information that you should include on your RSVP card:

• A due date or respond-by date: This gives your guests a deadline to work with and helps you gather responses in a timely manner.
• Guest name(s): Include a line for your guests to write their names, traditionally starting with "M" for Mr., Mrs., or Miss. You can also use "Name(s)" for a more casual approach.
• Number of attendees: It's important to know how many people will be attending, especially if you're planning an adults-only wedding or have specific seating arrangements in mind.

Additionally, you can include the following depending on your reception format:

• Meal options: If you're offering a plated meal with choices, list the options on the RSVP card so guests can select their preference.
• Song requests: Add a fun twist by allowing guests to request songs, which can be used to build your wedding dance playlist.
• Dietary restrictions: Provide a space for guests to mention any dietary restrictions or allergies, so you can accommodate their needs and ensure everyone is well-fed.

Wording Examples for RSVP Cards

• "The favour of a reply is requested on or before [date]. M _______________________ Number attending ____"
• "Please reply by [date]. Name(s) _______________________ __ will attend __ regretfully declines"
• "Adults-only RSVP: Please reply by [date]. Name(s) _______________________ We've reserved ___ spots for you."
• "RSVP with meal options: Kindly reply by [date]. Name(s) _______________________ Number attending ____ Please indicate number of each Filet Mignon __ Chicken Kiev __"
• "RSVP with a song request: Please respond by [date]. Name(s)________________________ _____ yes, we’re there! _____ bummer, we can’t go. Song request: ______________________"

Practical Considerations

When including RSVP cards, consider the following:

• Cost implications: Adding RSVP cards and additional inserts can increase the cost of your invitations, especially if you have multiple cards and envelopes.
• Keeping track of inserts: Some guests may find it cumbersome to manage multiple cards and inserts. If possible, try to include essential information on the main invitation or provide a wedding website with further details.
• Weight and postage: Keep in mind that adding multiple inserts can increase the weight of your invitation suite, which may impact postage costs.

Frequently asked questions