Wedding Reception Invitation Wording
Reception invitation wording should say who is hosting, that it is a reception (not the ceremony), the couple's names, the date, time and venue, and what to expect — dinner, dancing or a cocktail evening. If the wedding already happened privately, say so warmly: "Having married in an intimate ceremony, we invite you to celebrate with us".
Hosted by parents
The traditional Indian reception is hosted by the groom's family to welcome the bride.
[Groom's parents] request the pleasure of your company at the wedding reception of their son [Groom's name] with [Bride's name] [Date] · [Time] onwards [Venue], [City] Dinner to follow
Please join [Bride's parents] and [Groom's parents] for a reception in honour of [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] [Date] at [Time] [Venue], [City]
Hosted by the couple
Modern and relaxed — especially for receptions in a different city from the wedding.
We did it! 💍 [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] invite you to celebrate our marriage Reception · [Date] · [Time] [Venue], [City] Food, drinks and a lot of dancing
Join us for an evening of food, music and celebration as we begin our married life [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] [Date] · [Venue], [City]
After a private ceremony or court marriage
Common after a court marriage, a temple wedding with family only, or a small ceremony. Be warm, not apologetic.
Having married in an intimate ceremony with our families, [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] would love to celebrate with you Reception · [Date] at [Time] [Venue], [City]
We tied the knot quietly — now let's celebrate loudly! 🎉 Please join [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] for a reception [Date] · [Venue], [City] Details: [Invitation link]
On [wedding date], [Bride's name] and [Groom's name] were married in a private ceremony. Their families invite you to a reception in their honour on [Date] at [Time] [Venue], [City]
Our court marriage made it official. Our reception makes it a celebration! [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] · [Date] · [City] RSVP: [Invitation link]
After a destination wedding
For guests who couldn't travel. Mention the destination so they feel part of the story.
After saying "I do" in [Destination], [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] are home and ready to celebrate with you! Reception · [Date] · [Time] [Venue], [City]
We couldn't bring everyone to [Destination], so we're bringing the celebration home. Join us on [Date] at [Venue], [City]. [Invitation link]
Short WhatsApp reception invites
For friends, colleagues and anyone invited to the reception only.
You're invited to the reception of [Bride's name] & [Groom's name]! 🥂 [Date], [Time] onwards at [Venue], [City]. Details + RSVP: [Invitation link]
Dinner, dancing and the newlyweds — join us at our reception on [Date] in [City]! [Invitation link]
Reception time! 🎊 [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] · [Date] · [Venue]. Can't wait to see you there. [Invitation link]
Reception timing, dress code and practical lines
Reception guests often only attend this one event, so include everything they need on the invitation.
Cocktails at 7:00 PM · Dinner at 8:30 PM · Dancing until late
Dress code: Cocktail attire / Indo-western / Black tie optional
Valet parking available at the main entrance
Please join us for dinner — kindly let us know of any dietary requirements when you RSVP at [Invitation link]
Your presence is your present — no gifts, please
Adults-only reception
Receptions in a different city or country
Common for couples with families in two countries — e.g. a wedding in India with a reception in London or Toronto.
After celebrating our wedding in [City], we're bringing the party to [Second City]! Join [Bride's name] & [Groom's name] for a reception on [Date] at [Venue].
For everyone who couldn't travel to [Destination] — we're celebrating at home! Reception · [Date] · [Time] · [Venue], [City]
One wedding, two continents. After our ceremony in [City], please join us for a reception in [City] on [Date]. Details: [Invitation link]
Reception thank-you and follow-up messages
Thank you for celebrating with us at our reception! It was the perfect end to the most wonderful week. The photos are up on [Invitation link] — find yourself on the dance floor 💃
We're still smiling from Saturday. Thank you for your love, your gifts and your dance moves. — [Bride's name] & [Groom's name]
To everyone who travelled to [City] for our reception: thank you. Having you there meant everything.
Etiquette tips
- Always call it a "reception" on the card so guests don't expect the ceremony.
- Add the dress code (e.g. "Indo-western", "Cocktail") — receptions are where guests most often under- or over-dress.
- If gifts are not expected, say "Your presence is your present" or "No gifts, please" at the bottom.
- For receptions after a private wedding, a photo of the ceremony on the invitation helps guests feel included.
Frequently asked questions
How do you word a reception invitation after a private wedding?
Mention the private ceremony warmly and invite guests to celebrate, for example: "Having married in an intimate ceremony with our families, Ananya and Rohan would love to celebrate with you at their reception on…".
Who hosts the wedding reception in India?
Traditionally the groom's family hosts the reception to welcome the bride. Today many couples host it themselves, or both families host together.
Can I invite some guests only to the reception?
Yes. It is very common to invite colleagues, neighbours and acquaintances only to the reception. Send them a reception-only invitation so there is no confusion.
What should a reception invitation include?
Hosts, the couple's names, the word "reception", date, start time, venue and city, a dress code and an RSVP link or contact.
How long after the wedding can you hold a reception?
Anything from the same evening to several months later. Receptions held long after a private or destination wedding are common; just make it clear the marriage has already taken place.
Do reception-only guests give a gift?
Many do, but it is never required. If you prefer no gifts, add "Your presence is your present" to the invitation or website.