As you start the exciting journey of wedding planning, one of the first questions that will come to mind is: “Who should we invite?”. Creating a wedding guest list can be a daunting task, we know. But, with our guidance and a clear approach, you can make sure that your special day is filled with the people who matter most.
Start with Your Budget and Venue Capacity
Begin by considering your budget and venue capacity. These two factors will help you set realistic expectations from the start. Determine your budget first, since it will primarily dictate the number of guests you can invite. Next, check your venue’s capacity to determine how many people can fit comfortably in the space. If your venue didn’t tell you it’s capacity, be sure to ask. The last thing you want to do is have to cut people from your wedding guest list last minute.
Start with the Essentials
Now that you have your budget and venue capacity in mind, let’s start building your wedding guest list! Begin by identifying the essentials – the people you can’t imagine celebrating your special day without. Think about your childhood best friends, college roommates, and favorite relatives who always bring the best snacks. Don’t forget to include your vendors, as they count toward your overall guest count.
Consider Secondary Relationships
After listing your must-have guests, consider secondary relationships such as extended family members, co-workers, and other childhood friends. While you may not be as close to these people as your inner circle, they may still hold a special place in your life and you’d want to consider them.
Beware of Plus-Ones
Ah, the plus-one dilemma. While it’s customary to extend plus-ones to guests who are in long-term relationships or married, be mindful of your budget and venue capacity. Determine whether offering plus-ones to every guest who is not in a long term relationship is feasible and fair to both you and your guests. It’s okay to NOT offer plus-ones to some people and offer it to others. !
Set Boundaries and Stick to Them
As you’re making your guest list, it’s important to set boundaries and stick to them. This might mean politely declining requests for additional guests. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love, not about trying to please everyone else. If Great Aunt Patty gives you the side-eye for not inviting her fourth cousin twice removed, just smile and nod – it’s your day, after all!
Stay Flexible and Be Prepared for Changes
Finally, remember as RSVPs start rolling in, be prepared to make adjustments and accommodations as needed. Stay flexible and keep an open mind. Things might not always go according to plan (hello, last-minute RSVPs and unexpected cancellations!), knowing that the most important thing is to celebrate your special day surrounded by love and support.
Creating your wedding guest list is a thoughtful and intentional process. Starting with your budget and venue capacity, prioritizing your inner circle, and setting boundaries, you’ll be able to celebrate your special day with the people who matter most. Happy planning!
Looking for more tips on planning your big day?! Then we’ve got a podcast for you! On our first season of the Behind The Studio Podcast, titled “Getting Married? Start Here!”, we take you through the entire wedding planning process. From choosing the wedding vibe to creating your most magical honeymoon, we’re here to share all of the tips we have!
LET’S BE FRIENDS
We share all kinds of fun and informative stuff on social and our email list! So, whatcha waiting for, give us a follow and say hi 🙂
Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok
