Post Elopement Ceremony

knottie575806d4ff867406

Due to COVID-19 we had to postpone our wedding, scheduled for May 17 to September. We ended up getting married on our original date, just us and our parents. We still want to have our ceremony and big reception to celebrate with our family in the fall. We haven’t told everyone yet about our elopement. Any advice on wording for the invites? I hate the thought of “vow renewals” 4 months after we got married. Any advice for something small we can still say at the alter- more for family and friends without redoing all of our vows? TIA!

Jen4948

Unfortunately, the boat has sailed on "saying anything at the altar" now that you've already gotten married. You can have a big post-wedding celebration, but it will not be a "reception." The correct term now is "celebration." Also, you will have to forgo some wedding-related trappings, because you have already had your "wedding."

I would say something like "We invite you to join us at the celebration of our recent marriage" in your invitations. Don't use the word "reception" because that is reserved for hospitality provided immediately after the actual marriage ceremony.

banana468

You'll need to be clear that you're inviting guests to a post-wedding event and that you and your H are now married. 

Call it a Celebration however if you are able to have your wedding blessed or you intend to reaffirm your vows say you will do that.   Just be honest.  

Normally I'm anti-post wedding celebrations that try to recreate a wedding but I give anyone who had to postpone during Covid a pass.   Wear the dress, cut the cake and do what you want to do as long as you are being honest.   

ILoveBeachMusic

Totally agree with @banana468. This is an unusual time so go ahead with your celebration with all the trimmings. Honesty with your guests is the important thing though - don't make them think you aren't married. Best of luck!

knottiee94cf92d021801d8

"We couldn't Party from 6 feet apart, but love prevailed and we still said "I Do",  Please join us in celebrating our elopement and blessing our lives with your company now that we can!"