special guests; honored guests
A formal, somewhat literary term for distinguished or honored guests. Not used in everyday conversation; more common in written invitations, formal announcements, or traditional contexts.
We are truly honored to welcome our distinguished guests today.
Composed of 華 (splendor, elegance) and 客 (guest). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination suggests 'splendid guests' in a classical Chinese-influenced register.