Are You Having an 'Anniversary Reception'? The Latest Wedding Trend

Throughout the pandemic, a large number of people chose to keep their proposed wedding date and host intimate micro ceremonies or elope together. Whilst many couples will admit that these ceremonies were surprisingly special and unique in their own way, many still crave that larger celebration with all their friends and family. So alas in steps the ‘Anniversary Reception’, where couples host large parties on typically the first anniversary of their legal marriage to have a fun party with all their loved ones in attendance.

If this sounds like your jam and something you fancy doing, read below some frequently asked questions in relation to Anniversary Receptions to decide if they’re for you. 

Should you host one?

Think back to your original wedding and consider whether you feel like you really missed out on the larger wedding experience, or whether you were happy with your small and perfectly formed wedding day. Was it at the tail end of the pandemic and actually quite a number of your friends were able to join? If many of your friends weren’t able to come, it’s highly likely they’d be happy to spend the time and money on coming to your anniversary reception instead. 

Who hosts it?

Typically the couple will jointly host the reception as it’s after the wedding day and is instead a collective anniversary celebration. However some parents may like to get involved if they felt they missed out on contributing to the wedding itself, and will often be keen to throw you the party they feel you deserve. 

When do you host them?

Anniversary receptions are usually held a year or two after the original wedding day. Whilst hosting it on the day itself is lovely and sentimental, don’t feel that it has to occur on that date - just go with what will suit you best. 

Who to invite?

When it comes to choosing your guest list, think about anyone you would have liked to have been there on the actual day. Your general thoughts and relationships may have changed since you wrote your original guest list, so don’t feel that you have to stick to that - just go with who initially pops to mind. Remember also that there is no expectation as to how the day might run, so it’s up to you whether you want it to be a small and really lovely indulgent meal, or a raucous drinks party with all your favourite people. 

What will people expect?

As mentioned above, it can be whatever you want it to be so don’t worry too much about people’s expectations. It could follow the format of a wedding, it could be framed around reminiscing about the wedding day or it could be something totally different - it’s up to you! Just be sure to let your guests know what to expect prior to the event so that they are fully prepared. 

Do you send invites?

As there will be some formality to your day, you will likely want to send invites so that your guests know what to expect, what to bring and whether they need to eat before. These can be as formal or as informal as you like, from posted invites through to invites digitally sent over. 

Do we ask for gifts?

This one is up to you and your circumstances, but do try to bear in mind what people may have spent on you up until this point, and how much you’ll be spending on them on the day. If you do choose to accept gifts, make sure you set up a gift registry so they know what you might like. We’ve rounded up 5 of the best wedding companies here [insert link]. 

What’s the dress code?

This is totally up to you and the type of day you are planning. Keep things formal and wedding-like, or throw in a curveball and do something fun. Think about what suits your personality as a couple best.