One of the hardest parts of planning a wedding is creating the perfect guest list. Whether you’re trying to keep a very small guest list or trying to keep the guest list to those that matter the most in your life, almost every bride will run into the question and debate of how to keep their guest list to their desired size. Don’t feel bad or guilty about this! On your wedding day, you’re meant to be surrounded by your nearest and dearest friends and family- not people you’ve never met or barely know. But we understand that it may be difficult to avoid inviting some people, so here are a few tips that should make it a little easier:
Family: Stress the importance of an intimate guest list to your parents and your fiancé’s family. Remind them that you want every person at the wedding to have a close relationship with you and your future spouse. Unfortunately, many family members don’t fall in to that category so, to help your parents out, be sure to give them a specific number of invitations to the wedding they may extend to family members and friends. If they feel strongly about having all of the second-cousins there, encourage them to host a party in their hometown to “meet the newlyweds.”
Plus ones: Minimize your “plus ones” to those in serious relationships or to those who will not know other guests at the wedding.
They invited me to their wedding: You don’t have to invite everyone who has invited you to their wedding. Friendships change. For example, a sorority sister who got married 8+ years ago may not be a current friend that needs a wedding invitation.
Work: Don’t feel pressured to invite work colleagues just to make people feel included.
The one year test: Have you maintained a close relationship with the person in question for the last year? Do you see yourself maintaining this relationship in the future? If so, invite the guest. If not, reconsider them.
Using these tips should help you break the news a little more easily, and remember, some people may be hurt that they’re not invited, but ultimately, your wedding is about you and your families. Do what makes you comfortable, and eventually everyone else will understand.
Article by: Virginia Edelson of Bluebird Productions | Photography: Jillian Mitchell Photography
