How do we invite guests to a wedding with no reception?

We are getting married in Rarotonga and are not having a reception afterwards. How do we phrase this in a letter/invitation so that people know what is happening but also know we'd love to have them there?

Jane, Wellington

How do we invite guests to a wedding with no reception?

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Erin answers...

Once you say the word "wedding", people will assume they're getting a free meal. In essence, you want to invite your friends and family to come away with you...during which they will happen to witness a marriage between their afternoon swim and Happy Hour! While you may feel a bit awkward saying it, you need to be quite clear that there is no reception to avoid any confusion. I suggest you word your invitation in a casual manner that still makes it clear that you won't be footing the bill.

Something like:

Come away with us to Rarotonga! We invite you to join us for a nice, relaxing holiday in the Pacific Islands. While there, we will make our relationship "official" in a casual ceremony. Although there is no reception planned, we would love to have you present for this special occasion.
 
Please find below our travel and accommodation details. If you would like to find out more about our trip, please contact us on [telephone] or [email].

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