How to Word Reception Invitation Cards
Wedding reception invitations can be handled a number of different ways. For traditional weddings, create a separate reception card to place inside the actual invitation envelope, or write reception information directly on the wedding invitation. If you elope--or plan an intimate ceremony with a larger reception at a later date--create reception-only invites. No matter how you decide to spell it out, the most important thing is to make it clear to guests when and where the reception takes place, so they can join you on your big day.
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Instructions
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Create a separate reception card if your ceremony and reception take place at separate locations. On the card, list the occasion (reception), time ("immediately following the ceremony" or write a specific time), location name, street address, and city and state. Each of these elements goes on a separate line, creating five lines total.
If you are having a sit-down dinner, you may want to write "Dinner reception" on the first line. If you want guests to know there will be dinner and dancing, it's acceptable to write, "Dinner and dancing" instead of "reception." If your reception is black tie, indicate "Black tie" on the card, in the lower right hand corner.
Include reception invitation cards in the wedding invitation envelope.
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Write the reception location and time directly on the wedding invitation if the reception takes place at the same location as the ceremony. According to The Knot, it is acceptable to simply add, "Reception to follow" at the bottom of your wedding invitation. Your ushers should point guests in the right direction after the ceremony. Music or lighting can help guests find the reception room as well.
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Create an entirely separate invitation if you are inviting guests to a reception-only event (for example, you married out-of-town and are holding a reception for family and friends in your hometown). The Knot suggests wording that alludes to the fact that your ceremony already took place. For example, you could write, "Jane and John Doe request the honor of your presence at a celebration of their marriage..." and then list the date, time, and location.
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Do not write "adults only" or list registry information on your reception card or invitation--it is not proper etiquette. Spread these two bits of information by word of mouth. If you are afraid someone may bring their children, you can write "adults-only reception" on the last line of your reception card.
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References
- Photo Credit invitation de mariage image by Christophe Thélisson from Fotolia.com
