When to schedule a reception after our destination wedding?

Dear Polite One,

We are planning an especially small destination wedding with only immediate family attending and a large reception upon our return home. Is waiting three weeks to have the reception too long a time to wait to schedule it? Is it appropriate to register for gifts or is that a no-no because of our destination wedding?

Thank you!

Curious

Dear Curious,

It is appropriate to schedule your reception any time within the first year of marriage. However, the longer the time in between, the more traditional elements you may want to skip, such as the bouquet and garter toss. These are all optional anyway and may seem a bit silly the longer you are married.

Unfortunately, gifts are for the wedding, not the reception. But it isn't inappropriate to register just in case people want to give you something. Don't include registry information anywhere besides your wedding website—not on the first page.

Please no shower either as only those invited to the wedding may be invited to a bridal shower.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

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