2Nd reception before wedding date???

I would not call it a reception since it is before the wedding, I would call it a couples shower.

It’s fine to have another smaller reception for family that cannot travel, but it should not be before the actual wedding itself. If you want to do an event before, I would look into a shower or “bridal brunch” kind of afternoon

If we make it a couples shower or bridal brunch, I am assuming all of the people invited should be also invited to the wedding even though most of them probably won't come?

Welcome to the WeddingWire community, Denise!

This is a really sweet idea. I agree with the PPs suggestions for naming it something other than a reception.

Yes anyone you’re inviting to the shower/brunch should typically be invited to the actual wedding also As you mentioned, due to the distance, they may not be able to make it.