Need advise please. We want a small destination wedding. We are only inviting 4 people to the ceremony. I want to plan a party to celebrate with our family and friends but want to have all the details worked out before hand. My thought is to send out actual invites to a "come as you are BBQ" or something BUT not tell anyone that we are getting married a week before the reception. I planned on just having some of our photos printed and signs that say "Surprise, we eloped" when people arrive to the party.
My goal is to have an intimate and private ceremony but also avoid hurt feelings for those not invited. When we do celebrate, I would like to enjoy a relaxing time with our friends without the stress of the "big day" looming over us. I also hope to discourage gifts by not planning a formal reception.
My question... Is it rude to send an invitation/RSVP and not tell people it's reception only? Any suggestions how to get an accurate head count ahead of time?
