[atza]

My husband of 20 years and I are planning on having a recommitment ceremony in June. We have 4 children. We've invited only immediate family members (parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and first cousins) totaling 40 people. We're having the ceremony/reception in our back yard. We would like to have a "post" or "late" party for some of our friends at a later time (after dinner) is that OK? Also, we cannot serve alcohol, however all our friends drink. How do we address that? Thank you.

[Etiquette Now]

Dear Recommiting,

While it is fine to invite others to a party later, I'm wondering what you would be inviting them to. They aren't invited to dinner, which isn't polite. Either everyone should be invited to dinner or the parties should be on a different evening. It's like splitting your guests into categories, those who are worth a dinner and those who are not.

Why not invite your friends to a party at a different time? You won't be providing alcohol, which most guests will be expecting if the event is held later in the day.

It is best not to inform your friends about the absence of alcohol on an invitation. This would be better conveyed verbally.

Best wishes,