How do you word a wedding invitation for a private ceremony with a reception after?

For a private ceremony with a reception after, the wording depends on whether the ceremony has already happened or will happen before the reception. If the ceremony is earlier the same day, write: "[Couple Names] were married in a private ceremony on [date]. Please join us afterwards for a reception at [venue] from [time]." If the ceremony is on a different day, say: "[Couple Names] were married on [date] in a private ceremony. Please join us to celebrate at [venue] on [date] from [time]." You can also use: "Together with their families, [Couple Names] invite you to a reception celebrating their marriage. The ceremony was private." This is clear and avoids confusion. If you want to be more formal, write: "The marriage of [Couple Name] and [Partner Name] took place privately on [date]. You are warmly invited to the reception on [date] at [time] at [venue]." Always state the time the reception starts so guests know when to arrive. You might also add a line like "Dinner and dancing to follow" or "Drinks and canapés served." This wording works for any type of ceremony, including humanist or religious, and for any family shape.