Post-elopement Reception

Hi Vanessa! There’s no need to print anything about gifts or no gifts on your invitation. Etiquette rules say that info about gifts should never go on the actual invitation itself. The best way to let your guests know that you’d like cash or a donation instead of a physical gift is to not register in any stores, and have family spread the word about your preference through word of mouth. If any guests ask you directly where you are registered you can let them know you don’t have a registry because you have all you need for your home and you’re saving up to begin IVF. Perfect segue to bring up your fund!

Wishing you so much joy and happiness in your elopement and as you grow your family!

I am so jealous!! We considered eloping for so long but in the end we decided against it for various reasons. This sounds so amazing!

When we were considering it we thought about two options.
1. Renting a Hall (like the legion where prices aren't crazy and seating/tables/bartenders are usually included in the price) and just serving appetizers.

OR
2. Backyard BBQ. Tell everyone to bring a lawn chair and either ask some of the men in your life to assist with the bbq'ing of the food or hire a bbq catering company so everyone can enjoy. Generally they aren't overly pricey compared to wedding catering.

The benefit to the hall idea is you can have a screen with a slideshow of your wedding photos displayed for everyone to view which guests might really enjoy!

Hope some of this helps, goodluck and congrats!

Sounds amazing! I love to hear couple's elopement/celebration plans!!!

Most appropriate way:

I would say don't talk about wedding planning, or if someone brings it up, just say that you aren't in a rush. This way, people aren't building it up in their heads and close relative won't be disappointed or feel like they were lied to.

Any specific rules:

Not really. You do what you want and the way you want it! You can make it as casual or formal as you'd like!

Is it too soon?:

I would plan on sending the invitations early enough to have about 4 weeks to RSVP. If you have any out-of-town guests, then more like 6 weeks to RSVP. This way, you're giving them enough notice to make travel plans and/or block that day off in their calendars.

Alternatives to seated dinner:

Like I said, you can make this as casual or formal as you'd like. The key here is to communicate it to your guests on the invitation or website. You could have a BBQ, potluck or even hire a food truck!

Things to keep in mind:

- Check your city's bylaws, as you may need a liquor license or a special permit, depending on how many people you intend on inviting. It's also a good idea to know what time you'll need to turn the music down, so that you don't get any noise complaints from the neighbours. You can also let your neighbours know that there will be a large gathering, so that they're not surprised by the noise or amount of people haha.

- Try and have some pictures ready, from your elopement, as it would be nice to share those moments with your guests, since they weren't there with you.

- You can recreate your first dance too, or where your wedding attire again. All to make people feel included in your special day!

1. I would send invitations even though you are going for something more casual. Something along the lines of:

2. As far as I'm aware - no rules! It's still your party and you can do what you please!!

3. Not in my opinion (as long as people are all located somewhat close to where you are holding the party). For the most part 6 weeks is the min. time most weddings will give.

4. BBQ is completely fine - you could even have it be BYOM or BYOB or BYOC! (Meat, Booze, Chair)

5. Plan it your way. If you want it to be more formal - get a few long tables for everybody to be seated. Or... get a few long tables for beer pong!! lol