Can I Have a Private Wedding Ceremony, but a Reception as if we did have a ceremony?

by Shun
(USA)

Is it alright to have a reception only, if you decide not to have a wedding?

I don't want the hassle of a church wedding and the extra expenses of wedding dress, tuxedos, decorations, etc. etc.

My fiance and I decided to get married at the courthouse on a Friday, with just our parents and have a reception on Saturday.

We also wanted to pick 2 of our closest friends, 2 males for him and 2 females for me, to act as bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Basically we would like everything to be as if we just left the church from getting married, including them being introduced, us being introduced, first dance, parents dance and all.

Is this alright to do when you have a reception only??

Answer:

Hello Shun,

Thank you for your question. It is your wedding and you can have it anyway you so desire (especially if you are footing the bill ;).

Indeed, this is becoming increasingly popular as many couples plan an elopement or destination wedding at which not all family and friends are able to attend.

These couples plan a reception at a later time for everyone to celebrate their union.

I would suggest that you take a look at some of the different wording for your invitations so that your guests won't be confused. Check out Wedding Reception Wording for more information.

If you really want to save money on your reception as well as on your ceremony, though, I might suggest that you plan your reception on the Friday after your private ceremony.

You'll find that your reception venue and food will be a lot cheaper on Friday than on a Saturday.

Best Wishes to you!

Diane