Everything you need to know about wedding reception card wording

So far in the wording portion of the Wedding Stationery Guide, we’ve covered how to word your wedding invitation and your RSVP card. Next up is the Reception Card! I’ve found that this can be one of the more confusing pieces of an invitation suite. Do you even need a reception card? What good is it? Read on to find out!

Your wedding invitation sets the stage, but for weddings with a separate reception venue, a reception card insert is a must-have. These little cards give guests essential details about where the celebration continues after the ceremony, so they know exactly where to go and when to get there. Not sure if you need one or how to word it? Here’s your ultimate guide to wedding reception cards—when to use them, what to include, and how to make them feel like a seamless part of your suite.

What is a reception card?

A wedding reception card is an invitation insert used to share information about the location and timing of your reception when it’s held at a different location than the ceremony. While the main invitation covers the ceremony details, the reception card ensures guests have all the information they need to make it to the party afterward. The reception information is sometimes included on the main invite, but you can also use a separate card. This is particularly helpful if the reception is at a different location than the ceremony, or if you want to let your guests know start times or end times for certain events at the reception. Attire is indicated on the reception card.

The reception card is also an opportunity to let your guests know what to expect at the reception, that way if you’re having a champagne and cake reception they won’t show up expecting a full seven-course meal.

When to use a reception card

•Your ceremony and reception are at different locations.

•Your ceremony and reception are at the same venue but start at different times.

•You want to keep the main invitation focused on ceremony details while providing clear directions for the reception separately.

Including a reception card helps keep your invitation neat and elegant while still giving guests everything they need to make it from “I do” to “Let’s dance!”

While frowned on by traditional etiquette, if you’re not inviting children to the reception, you could indicate it on this card by stating “adult reception”.

So here’s my advice: if your reception is at a different location than the ceremony, use a separate reception card if at all possible. You might be able to fit the reception location on the main invite, but I think having it on its own card is helpful to your guests. You could also make this a multi-purpose “Information” insert, and include the reception specifics alongside helpful details like your wedding website or hotel accommodations.

1. TITLE

“Reception” is the standard heading choice, but alternates like “Celebrate”, “Dinner and Dancing”, or “The celebration continues” are also popular.

2. REQUEST

A formal reception card contains a request line like the invitation. Use “the pleasure of your company” for receptions held at secular locations.

3. TIME

If the reception begins as soon as the ceremony is over, you can use “following the ceremony”. You can also note if there is a cocktail hour, or specify dinner and/or dancing start times.

4. LOCATION

Include the full name of your reception venue, along with the street address, city, and state. Zip code is optional (but is traditionally omitted).

5. Additional details

If parking is limited or if you’re offering a shuttle from the ceremony to the reception, a small note on the reception card can be helpful. For example: “Valet parking available” or “Shuttle service provided from ceremony site to reception”

6. Attire or dress code

If your reception has a specific dress code (such as black-tie or cocktail attire), feel free to include that on the reception card.

 

Reception Card Wording Samples

Hopefully, these tips and sample wording cleared up any confusion and helped you decide whether you need a reception card or not! If you have more questions, let me know – I’m happy to help out.

Including a reception card isn’t just about getting guests from point A to point B—it’s a gesture that helps them feel prepared and comfortable throughout your wedding day. By sharing this information clearly and concisely, you’re ensuring that your guests can focus on celebrating with you without worrying about where to go or when to be there. Plus, they add a lovely layer to your wedding suite that feels polished and thoughtful.

Make your wedding stationery complete with a reception card

Reception cards are the unsung heroes of a wedding invitation suite, making it easy for guests to transition smoothly from ceremony to celebration. With just a few words and the right details, you can make sure everyone knows exactly where to go and what to expect.

If you need help designing a reception card that fits seamlessly with your wedding invitations or want advice on wording, I’m here to help. Together, we can create an invitation suite that’s as beautiful as it is functional, guiding your guests from “I do” to “let’s dance” without missing a beat!