Creating Your Guest List
Paperia | April 2014
Compiling the guest list for your wedding may prove to be one of the most challenging tasks of the entire planning process! Read on for a few tips to make this daunting task a little easier…
Start early.
The number of guests invited will have a direct impact on your budge. The larger the wedding, the more costly it will be. The size of your guest list will not just affect the amount spent on food and drink, but also on table linens, rentals, centerpieces, favors, and – of course – stationery! You always want to plan as if everyone you invite will attend.
Write a “wish list” guest list.
A good way to start your list is to have both you and your partner write an individual list of all those you would ideally like to invite to the celebration. It is common to consult with your immediate family and/or anyone contributing financially towards hosting the wedding for their input, as well. Don’t forget to include yourselves, the bridal party, and children.
Once both of you have your lists and combine them, you have your “wish list” guest list. And, unless you have a very generous budget, the “wish list” guest list almost always needs to be pruned!
Pare down.
When you approach your list to make cuts, try to have about the same number of guests from both the bride and groom’s sides. Consider implementing rules, such as “no second cousins or beyond,” “no children,” or “no coworkers.” Think about the most important people in your life and those with whom you are most excited to celebrate. Don’t feel obligated to invite people just because they invited you to their wedding; every celebration is different!
Good luck with your list writing, and remember that once this task is over, you can move on to way more enjoyable things – like, sending your Save the Date!
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