We will be having a very small beach ceremony (parents + SOs, siblings + SOs -- a max of 14 people, including the two of us), followed by dinner for the 14 of us at our favorite restaurant. All of the guests (save 2) will be coming from out of town.
We will of course be telling our parents and siblings very shortly about the November 2013 date, so they can book plane tickets ASAP and work out hotel arrangements.
Should we also send out paper invitations 6-8 weeks prior to our date? (November 12, 2013)
And secondly, we will be having parties in each of our home states to celebrate with family and friends in those two locations (Indiana, Massachusetts). These have not been planned yet, but will be occuring AFTER the wedding. We are thinking one around Thanksgiving time, and the other closer to Christmas (but not solid on this yet, still need to contact possible restaurant locations, etc).
Should we send out Wedding Announcements to everyone right after the actual wedding? Or just send out the party invites within appropriate time for the two parties? I am thinking the wording on these might be slightly awkward to do since it's possible when these are mailed, we won't be married yet.
My plan was to invite the Indiana folks (plus my parents/sibling) to the Indiana celebration only. And to invite the Massachusetts folks (plus HIS parents/siblings) to the Massachusetts celebration only. Is this OK etiquette-wise? Obviously these are NOT receptions, just fun eat food/chat/enjoy parties.
Thanks for your help. I am having a difficult time planning all of this and I know you all are very helpful with details and what is and is not appropriate. I want to make sure I do it right and don't step on any toes!