Creating your wedding guest list can be one of the most challenging parts of planning your big day. It's a delicate balance of including all the important people in your life while staying within your budget and venue constraints. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect guest list for your wedding.
1. Create Your Dream Guest List
Start by making a dream guest list. This list should include everyone you might want to invite, from close family and friends to colleagues and distant relatives. Don’t worry about numbers at this stage—just get everyone down on paper.
2. Be Realistic About Your Budget
Once you have your dream list, take a hard look at your budget. Be realistic, at $150 per a guest does your budget allow you to invite everyone on your dream list?This step is crucial to ensure you don’t overspend.
3. Edit Your Dream List
Now, it’s time to trim down your dream list. Remove “would be nice to haves” and plus ones for now. You can always add them back later if your budget allows.
4. Evaluate Your Relationships
Ask yourself: do you have a current relationship with this person? Do they know you as a couple? If the answer is no, it might be best to remove them from the list.
5. The Expensive Dinner Test
If you’re still unsure about someone, ask yourself if you would take this person out for an expensive dinner. This can help you decide whether they should be on your guest list.
6. Decide on Kids and Plus Ones
Determine if you are going to invite children and plus ones. Make sure you are ready to clearly communicate this decision to your guests to avoid any misunderstandings.
7. Make an A & B List
Create two lists: an A list and a B list. The A list should include people you absolutely want at your wedding, such as close family and friends. The B list can include extended family and friends.
8. Consider Your Budget and Venue
Your budget and venue will ultimately determine how many guests you can invite. Ensure there is enough space for your A list guests in your budget and venue.
9. Send Save the Dates
Send Save the Dates to your A list guests only. As RSVPs come in and you have a clearer picture of who can attend, you may be able to send invitations to your B list guests. Keep extra invitations on hand so you can send them out promptly.
By following these steps, you can create a wedding guest list that ensures you have the right people there to celebrate your special day while staying within your budget and venue constraints. Happy planning!
Photos: Brittany Mahood Photography
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