Creating the wedding guest list is a vital part of the planning process, because it determines the budget among other things. Deciding how many people to invite to a wedding can be a source of tension and friction between the happy couple, as one person usually wants to keep the guest list on the smaller side. Avoid screaming matches by utilizing the following tips and tricks!
Wedding Cost
The person or people paying for the wedding is a huge factor in determining its size. For example, if your parents are footing the bill and want to invite every relation you have, there’s not a whole lot you can do about it. However, if you and your hubby-to-be are paying for the wedding, whether because you’re older or simply because you want to, you have complete control over the guest list. Make it a small, intimate affair, a big blowout, or something in between. It’s entirely up to you!
Separate Lists
It’s generally a good idea for you and your groom to make separate wedding guest lists and compare them. Work together to create a master list that includes absolutely everyone you want to invite, and remember to be willing to compromise.
Getting Started
If you need help creating your guest list, think of it like this: start with your immediate family, including everyone’s children if you do not wish to make your wedding a child-free affair. Move on to extended family members, such as aunts and uncles, grandparents, nieces and nephews, etc. Invite your closest friends and family members next, including the members of the bridal party–they still require invites, after all! If you have numerous mutual friends and one of you has a lot more family coming than the other, use these friends as ceremony “fillers” so both sides of the wedding venue look even. Invite co-workers and your parents’ colleagues last…and only if you want to.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
