How to Create Your Wedding Guest List (Without Losing Your Mind)

Hello everyone,

Let's not kid ourselves: making your wedding guest list can quickly become a headache. Between the budget, the venue's capacity, family wishes, and the "obligation" to invite that cousin you haven't seen in 10 years, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But don't panic! Here are a few simple steps to create your guest list in a clear and (relatively) stress-free manner.

1. Start with your wedding vision

Before even opening an Excel file or getting out the Post-its, sit down together and ask yourselves: What does our ideal day look like? Do you want a small, intimate wedding or a large celebration? Do you want a friendly atmosphere or a more formal event? Your vision will directly influence the number of guests, so this is a crucial step.

2. Set a realistic target number

The number of guests will mainly depend on two things:

– Your budget (the number of plates at dinner adds up quickly!)

– The capacity of your reception venue

If you already have a venue, it's easier. Otherwise, give yourself a rough target, even if you adjust it later.

Example: Are you aiming for a wedding of 100 people? Aiming for 50 guests each will give you a starting point.

3. Make two separate lists (then combine them)

Each of you, write down everyone you'd like to invite: family, close friends, colleagues, neighbors, etc.

Then combine your lists, without judging them yet. This will allow you to visualize the overall picture and spot any duplicates.

4. Sort by priority : A, B, C

This is where it gets strategic! Divide your guests into three categories:

A: Must-haves (close family, best friends, people without whom the wedding wouldn't have the same flavor)

B: People you'd like to invite, if space and budget permit

C: "Bonus" guests, whom you could include in case of cancellations or a budgetary miracle

Pro Tip: People on list B may receive an invitation a little later, depending on the responses from list A.

5. Team up with your families

In some weddings, families also want to invite certain people (longtime friends, colleagues, etc.). In this case, it's important to:

– Clarify with them how many seats you can allocate

– Explain your budgetary or logistical constraints

– Keep the discussion friendly (and put your relationship first!)

Remember that it's your wedding and you have the right to set your limits.

6. Consider Guest Dynamics

Sometimes it's not just a matter of budget or space. You also need to consider the dynamics between people.

– Are there any family conflicts to avoid?

– Will some people be uncomfortable?

– Can you plan strategic seating or limit certain interactions?

You don't have to please everyone. But thinking about human logistics will save you a lot of hassle on the big day.

7. Keep track of our wedding guest list

Once you've decided on your list, create a tracking table with:

• Full Name

• Email/Mailing Address

• RSVP (Reply Please ;) )

• Meal Choices (if applicable)

• Special Needs (allergies, children, etc.)

  
  

This file will become your best friend along the way!

8. Personal Touch

A little bonus for you, dear readers: here's a tip from my own wedding experience. There will always be a few people you don't particularly want to invite, but for whom you feel a certain pressure, often from family. In these cases, instead of torturing yourself, ask yourself this simple question:

– Will it be easier to invite them or to deal with the consequences if I don't?

The answer is unique to each individual. If it's a distant acquaintance or someone you haven't seen in years, it might seem trivial. But if this person's presence revives old wounds or goes against your deepest values, that's another story.

And sometimes, you can choose to invite them... hoping they'll decline on their own. (Yes, yes, it happens!) The important thing is that your decision allows you to remain at peace with yourself and live your day with a light heart.

And above all... breath!

Your wedding guest list doesn't need to be perfect from the start. It will evolve over time. The important thing is that it reflects the people you really want to have by your side for this unique day.

And if you need a little help managing the unexpected or simply breathing a little easier as the big day approaches, you know where to find us! 😉

Happy guest selection!

Big kisses

Lusiné A.