Reception only

There's no time frame as far as etiquette goes, but I think anything more than 6+ months from the ceremony, you should just treat as a vow renewal or a celebration of marriage. "Reception" sounds like it should be fairly close to the wedding.

That makes perfect sense.

We are getting married in Vegas in January and having an “I do bbq” in September.

I think whatever you decide will be fine.

My cousin got married in Vegas and had a reception at home. When she sent he invites for the reception, she used a wedding picture and it ended up working really well! No hurt feelings (as far as I know) and it was a great time!

If someone is going to be offended, there going to be offended no matter what you decide to do. You can't please everyone.

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If that doesn't describe my mother, idk what does. lolol

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If she's going to be offended either way, I would do what's going to make you and your fiance the most happy. If that means doing a destination elopement, then go for it.

If I was a guest I would be honored to be invited to the local reception after the elopement! I would make sure it is between 1-8 months after you elope though!

If any family is offended, just let them no that only you, FH and immediate family were present (if immediate family is even going to be present), and that you look forward to celebrating with them at the reception!

We're actually having a Commitment Celebration (Reception) 3 weeks before we fly out to Jamaica for our small intimate wedding. We chose this because when we get back from Jamaica we wanted to be done with wedding stuff. We decided it's our wedding and we're marching to the beat of our own drum. We dont care about tradition or what is considered normal. The reception will be executed like any other reception with a bridal party, cake cutting, catering etc. and we're jumping the broom. I have 2 dresses for each event and he's wearing 2 different suits.

I went to one where it was only a reception and it was like half a year after they got legally married