Post # 1

Member
5093 posts
Bee Keeper
I’m working on the page about the reception on our website right now. We’re having a masquerade ball reception, so in addition to the normal driving directions to the venue and info about the food, I would like to have a section called “About the Masquerade”. It will say:
A few of you have asked us about our masquerade theme. Both of us have always loved theater, and we both love to travel. A few years ago, Mr. Moon went on an epic tour of Europe, and he fell in love with Italy. Thus, when we were trying to decide on the kind of reception we wanted, Venice’s Carnevale came to mind. We want to go to Italy together, and the masks remind us of theater, how we met. A masquerade ball seemed like the perfect thing to do. Besides, how else could GreenEyedMoon possibly live out her Labyrinth and The Phantom of the Opera fantasies?
FAQ
Q: Do I have to wear a costume?
A: Certainly not. Traditionally, guests at a masquerade ball wore the popular clothing of the times and then simply added a mask. If you wear a nice dress, suit, or tux, you will fit in just fine.
Q: Then do I have to bring a mask?
A: Please feel free to bring your own mask if you would like. We would love to see anything you bring. However, please do not feel like you must. We will have several masks available for your use at the reception, and we definitely understand if you choose not to wear one at all.
Q: If I want to purchase my own mask, where can I do it?
A: Party City always has quite a collection of masks, as does the Earthbound Trading Company. If you are located in the Dallas area, then you might check out the Dallas Vintage Shop, which has a huge selection. There are also several online dealers, like A Masquerade, The Venetian Mask Society, and Mask Italia. You could also look at Etsy.com for something more unique.
I’m afraid that because it touches so close to telling the guests what to wear, they might be offended. Would you find this section to be helpful or rude? Can you think of any other questions you might have if you heard you were going to a masquerade wedding? How can I improve it? Please help me, bees!
Post # 3

Member
281 posts
Helper bee
I think it’s great. Not pushy and very clear.
Great job!
Post # 4

Member
359 posts
Helper bee
Nope – I would find it helpful actually. I would be the type to see “Masquerade” and show up in full Renaissance regalia…and end up being the only one. O.o Go for it!!
Post # 5

Member
2701 posts
Sugar bee
I think it sounds great. It explains things without being overly pushy and I like it.
Post # 6

Member
5668 posts
Bee Keeper
@GreenEyedMoon: I think it’s perfect! I honestly wasn’t offended, taken aback, etc. I didn’t get the feeling that you were trying to dictate apparel at all.
Post # 7

Member
1843 posts
Buzzing bee
I agree with the others – looks good. You’ve spelled it all out for them and if anything, your guests should appreciate the information.
Post # 8

Member
1048 posts
Bumble bee
Totally fine. Plus, you wrote everything in a friendly, inviting way.
Post # 9

Member
376 posts
Helper bee
Love it. I don’t think it’s offensive at all.
Post # 10

Member
1927 posts
Buzzing bee
You’re actually making it really clear that you AREN’T forcing them to wear anything they won’t be comfortable in. I think it’s great.
Post # 11

Member
242 posts
Helper bee
Can I come? I want to live out my Labyrinth fantasies too! This sounds like so much fun and I think that post is perfect.
Post # 12

Member
4583 posts
Honey bee
I wouldn’t be offended at all. I’d be super pumped!
Post # 13

Member
3866 posts
Honey bee
@FlutterbyBee: lol, or anyone who’s familiar with “Vampre: Masquarade” would think something like THAT! LOL!
@GreenEyedMoon: It reads great and is very easy to figure out. I can see some people even checking out those sites and buying their own mask!!!
Post # 14

Member
6661 posts
Bee Keeper
No I think the more explanation/help you can provide to your guests in this situation the better. I just put “cocktail attire” on my website and I still had a lot of questions from guests, so you are really helping people out by putting that much detail.
Post # 15

Member
4755 posts
Honey bee
Nope becasue you are clearly saying that you can if you like but definately don’t have to.
Great wording.
Post # 16

Member
110 posts
Blushing bee
I agree, you make it very clear that you are not forcing people what to wear. I think the section will be helpful and informative for guests.