4 tips for cutting down the guest list

Originally posted in the Social Tables blog!

Having trouble crossing people off your guest list? We know it’s not fun because in a perfect world you could celebrate with everyone! However, weddings are expensive so you have to make tough decisions on who to invite. Don’t worry! There may be no magic formula but here’s a diagram that can help you make the decision on those “fringe” guests:

(Source: Wedding by Color) 

Some more tips to cutting down the guest list:

1) Eliminate plus ones or set rules for those who can have plus ones. For example, a common rule is to allow the guest a plus one only if they live with their significant other or have been together for more than a year.

2) Set expectations from the very beginning. If everyone knows from the get go that you want a small wedding, they are less likely to be upset later if they don’t get the invite.

3) Consider not including children or coworkers. Many times people feel obligated to invite all coworkers, but you don’t have to! Consider inviting only those that you talk to outside of work.

4) Split up the invites evenly. Give the same portion of invites to the bride, groom and friends of both the bride and groom. This will make it easier to decide where to make cuts.

If you really can’t cut down the list anymore, but need to cut costs, remember that there are other ways to spend less money. For example, you could choose to have it on a weekday or outside of wedding season to avoid higher costs on the venue. Finally, don’t sweat it, it will all work out and you will have a wonderful day! Especially if you use Social Tables for creating your floor plan and seating chart ;)