One of the first steps in wedding planning is creating a guest list to determine the size of the event and avoid wasting time looking at venues that can’t accommodate everyone. Formulating a guest list can be stressful, as there will inevitably be people upset about not being invited. Ultimately, the guest list is a decision between the couple, and it’s important to work together to decide how far it should extend. Tips for composing a guest list include considering the budget, creating a “can’t get married without” list, making a list of “maybes,” and not forgetting about plus ones and kids.
Before making a guest list, it’s crucial to determine the budget, as the number of attendees will significantly impact the cost of the wedding. Communicate with your partner about your vision for the event and what you can afford. Identify the people you can’t imagine getting married without to create a minimum number of attendees. Discuss potential wedding party members based on this list. Additionally, make a list of potential guests to consider inviting to your wedding ceremony.
After creating a list of potential guests, it’s important to consider plus ones and children. Decide on a policy for plus ones, such as “no ring, no bring,” allowing only serious partners to attend. The guidelines for plus ones can cause drama, so it’s essential to clearly communicate the policy on your wedding website. Kids are another factor to consider, as some couples opt for a child-free event, while others are open to children attending. Add children to the guest list and clearly specify who is invited on the invitations and wedding website.
When addressing invitations, it’s crucial to be explicit about who is invited to avoid confusion. Even with clear communication, you may still receive questions about plus ones and children, so having answers on your wedding website can help reduce inquiries. Engage in open communication with your partner throughout the guest list creation process to ensure that both of you are in agreement on who to invite. Remember that the guest list is a decision for the couple and should reflect their preferences and budget. Making a guest list can be a challenging but essential part of wedding planning, requiring consideration of various factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event for everyone involved.
