[kar87]

We had a courthouse wedding that included only our immediate family. We would like to send wedding announcements and save the dates for the reception which is a year and a half away (after my husband returns from Iraq). Can we send an announcement/save the date combo? If so, how should it be worded? Thanks!

[Etiquette Now]

Dear Kar,

Usually, announcements are only sent to those not invited to the wedding or reception. But, your event is planned for a much later date, so it shouldn't be an issue. Save the dates are not sent this far out from the date, so you wouldn't send these now.

One huge issue, though, is that the reception should be hosted within the first year or it is an anniversary party, which should be a private affair when not celebrating a bench mark anniversary. However, if it is a very informal party, your family and friends most likely would view a welcome home/let's finally celebrate the wedding party. It should be informal and have none of the traditional wedding/reception elements.

So, just send out announcements now and the invitations closer to the date of the party.

Please note that these shouldn't include any gift giving information.

Best wishes,

This post has been edited by TWQadmin: 03 January 2026 - 06:33 PM

[kar87]

Thank you!