Hello,

I was wondering if it was appropriate to have just a wedding ceremony and not a wedding reception on the day of the wedding. There would be no limitation on who could attend the wedding ceremony, there would just be no wedding reception afterwards.

Is that completely inappropriate, or is it up to the couple?

Thank you,
Martha

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Hi Martha,

Many couples get up one morning, get on a plane to Jamaica and elope. Then they come back to the United States and throw a reception for their family and friends since they couldn’t attend their wedding ceremony. That is perfectly acceptable.

The same is fine in your case. Having a wedding ceremony and allowing everyone you consider being close to you in attendance is wonderful. I’m sure all of the guests will be honored to share your day with you. The fact that you aren’t having dinner and dancing afterwards is not a problem. And if for some reason you decide weeks or months later to have a reception, it is completely acceptable.

Happy planning!
Thanks for writing,
Victoria

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