Planning Your Wedding Guest List

The Wedding Guest List!

Planning Your Wedding Guest List

When you are planning a small gathering, one thing that can get out of hand rather quick is your guest list.  

I remember thinking that it was just going to be me and my hubby, then I realized how impossible that was going to be.  By the time I was done I had 8 people on my list.  You’re probably thinking, really Taylor? that’s nothing.  But when you are on a budget, whatever the size, is always too big.  Food and venue are not cheap ladies and this part of your wedding planning is crucial to either making or breaking your budget. 

Here are my tips on how to survive the “The List”

Planning Your Wedding Guest List

1. Who do you truly want at your wedding (yes, this calls for a couple's meeting).
2. Are you getting assistance from parents to create the list? Obviously if they are paying, you may need to allow for a few of their friends.  Stress to them the word “Small Wedding”.
3. Are you inviting Children? This one is big, especially if you are paying per plate. Children get counted as part of list, so it can add up pretty quick.
4. Friend or acquaintance? After you add all of your family to your guest list, you may not have much room left in your budget. Start with adding your closest friends who truly mean the world to you.
5. Limits per invitation.  Listen... I know this sounds nuts, but I’m Latina, so if you don’t write the limit, they will bring everyone including their 98 years old Nana (which by the way, you’ve never met).  I see this happen all the time, where the brides tells me, she has no idea half of the people at her wedding.  We realized that the reason for this is because most of them are their parent's friends. Funny, but so true! Add this to your invite: Guest + 1

Planning Your Wedding Guest List

After you’ve gather as much info as possible (and your fiancee is equally happy with the list), then start sending invitations with an RSVP number or address. Repondez S’il Vous Plait!  Meaning, reply if you please...or “Please Reply”.

RSVP's are super important! Guests need to let you know if they are coming.

I understand that people get sick, plans change, etc. Having an idea of who is coming will make your life a lot less complicated. Include an email, phone number or a stamped envelope so that they have no problem getting back to you.

Another thing to consider is time.  You must give guest at least 3 months for planning, if you have guest coming from out of town, 6 months to a year is ideal.

A great idea:  When you get your engagement photos done, let the photographer know that you are using an image from the session for your “Save the Date”. Be sure to get those babies in the mail ASAP.  We take about a week to get photos back to our clients after your session!

Planning Your Wedding Guest List

Good luck friends! The “List” is a major undertaking, hope this helps a bit!





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