Tips for Simplifying a Wedding Guest List

Planning a wedding can be fun and exciting, but also extremely stressful if you do not organize well. There are plenty of decisions to be made, whether it will be an intimate or a big wedding; will it be outdoors or indoors, what kind of venue to choose? After you have decided on your ideal type of wedding, you should consider the guest list. Here are some tips to get you through this process without getting a headache.

Stick to your budget

Even though it is not the most pleasant thing to do, you have to decide on the number of guests. Your budget and the venue are the key factors to consider before determining your guest list count. If your parents are bearing the expenses of the wedding, you may have to sacrifice something and adjust to their wishes. If you are paying for the wedding yourself, there is room for more flexibility. However, if you have a strict budget, you need to stick to it and invite as many people as you can afford. Also, bear in mind the capacity of your venue to avoid stress later on.

Divide the list

It is a good idea to have the two families sit down together and discuss the guest list, to avoid surprises. It is common that the couple gets 50 percent of the guest number, while each set of parents gets 25 percent. However, you can assign the percentage at your wish. If your parents are paying for the wedding, you may want to give them more spots.

Create tiers

Placing your guests into category will make the whole process easier. The first tier includes essential family members, the second tier close friends, and the third tier other friends and colleagues. Once you know how many guests you can afford, start cutting the list. If you are not sure who to invite, think about the time you had last spoken with this person. If the period is longer than a year, you may wish to reconsider their invitation. In addition, you can use a tool such as Wedding Guest List Manager to be more efficient.

Have place cards

Having place cards at your wedding will create a feeling of good organization and planning. Also, you can avoid potential chaos made by a large group of people who is not sure where to sit. There is a wide selection of beautifully designed place cards you can use to make your wedding absolutely perfect.

The “plus one” issue

One of the things that pose inconvenience to almost all future spouses is whether to allow their guests to bring another person with them. In this matter, stick to your initial intention and do not let others convince you otherwise. If there will be single people at your wedding, do not include a “plus one” option. Allow a guest invitation only if you are friends with the couple. Bear in mind the expenses and minimize potential stress.

Making a guest list is a tedious process, but with some tips you can do it quickly and efficiently. Stick to your budget, talk to your family, and do not let others interfere within your plans. Finally, do not forget to enjoy in the most special day of your life.