Creating a wedding guest list can feel like one of the most challenging parts of planning your big day. Deciding who to invite (and, in some cases, who not to) can bring up all kinds of questions and emotions.
Do you invite distant relatives or colleagues? Should you include plus-ones? How do you manage limited seating and budget constraints? At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we’ve seen couples struggle with these very questions, and we’re here to help!
With the right balance of planning and strategy, you can craft a guest list that reflects the people who matter most to you, all while staying within your budget and venue capacity.
Here are some essential do’s and don’ts for creating a wedding guest list that’s perfect for your special day.
DO Start with Your Ideal Guest Count
Before you begin making your guest list, determine the ideal number of people you would like to have at your wedding.
This number will depend on several factors, including your venue’s capacity, your budget, and the atmosphere you want to create.
If you’re envisioning a more intimate celebration, a guest count of 50-100 might feel right, whereas a grander event could call for 150 or more.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we offer a range of beautiful spaces that can accommodate both large and small gatherings, making it easier for you to determine the best size for your wedding.
Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a larger celebration, knowing your venue’s capacity is crucial in shaping your guest list.
DON’T Feel Obligated to Invite Everyone
One of the most common mistakes couples make is feeling like they need to invite everyone they’ve ever known.
Remember, this is your day, and it’s important to invite people who will add joy and meaning to the celebration. You don’t have to include distant acquaintances, people you haven’t spoken to in years, or friends of friends.
Focus on those who matter most – family members, close friends, and anyone who has been a meaningful part of your relationship journey.
Don’t feel pressured to extend invitations out of obligation. Your wedding should be filled with people who genuinely support and celebrate your love.
Kelsey Marie Photography
DO Prioritize Family and Close Friends
When it comes to building your guest list, it’s important to prioritize your immediate family and closest friends. These are the people who have been by your side through thick and thin and are the most important part of your celebration.
Start with immediate family, then move on to your closest friends. Once these key people are accounted for, you can consider adding other guests like extended family, coworkers, and acquaintances.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we’ve noticed that couples who prioritize their inner circle tend to have weddings that feel more intimate and personal, even if the guest count is higher.
These are the people who will stand by you in every important moment, and their presence will make your wedding day all the more special.
DON’T Forget to Consult Both Sides
Creating a guest list isn’t just about you and your partner; it’s also about your families. Be sure to involve both sets of parents (if applicable) in the process, especially if they are contributing financially.
Your families may have people they would like to invite, such as close family friends or relatives you may not have thought of.
While it’s important to consider their input, don’t feel pressured to invite people you’re uncomfortable with. Finding a balance between your wishes and your families’ can help you avoid any tension while keeping your guest list manageable.
DO Consider Your Budget
Your budget is one of the most significant factors that will impact your guest list.
Each guest you invite adds to the cost of your wedding, from catering to seating, so it’s important to be realistic about how many people you can afford to host. Set a clear budget early on and keep it in mind when making your list.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we understand the importance of sticking to your budget without sacrificing the magic of your big day.
We offer flexible packages to accommodate a range of guest counts, so you can create a memorable experience that works for both your vision and your wallet.
Allison Mayfield Photography
DON’T Forget Plus-Ones Carefully
Deciding whether to allow plus-ones can be tricky, especially if you’re working with a tight guest list or budget.
It’s perfectly acceptable to limit plus-ones to married or long-term couples, as well as members of your wedding party. This approach allows you to be inclusive while keeping your guest count manageable.
If you do decide to offer plus-ones to all single guests, make sure to account for the extra cost and seating. We’ve seen couples take various approaches to plus-ones, and we can help you find a solution that works best for your event and budget.
DO Consider Your Relationship with Each Guest
When deciding who to invite, consider your relationship with each guest. Are they someone who has played a significant role in your life or your relationship?
Do they support your marriage and bring positivity to your life? If the answer is yes, they likely deserve a spot on your guest list.
However, if you’re on the fence about someone or feel obligated to invite them due to social norms, it’s okay to reconsider.
Your wedding day is a personal and intimate event, and it’s important to be surrounded by people who genuinely care about you and your partner.
DON’T Feel Guilty About Keeping the List Small
If you’re opting for a smaller, more intimate wedding, don’t feel guilty about limiting your guest list. A small guest count can create a more personal atmosphere, where you can spend meaningful time with each guest.
Plus, it allows you to focus more on quality experiences, like gourmet catering or live entertainment, without stretching your budget.
We’ve hosted many intimate weddings, and the feedback from couples is often that they enjoyed having the time to connect with each guest and create lasting memories. Don’t be afraid to keep things small and focused on the people who matter most.
DO Include Kids if it Fits Your Vision
Deciding whether to invite children to your wedding is a personal choice. Some couples love the idea of having kids as part of their day, while others prefer an adult-only affair. If you do decide to include children, make sure your venue and setup are kid-friendly.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we’ve seen couples create charming, family-friendly weddings with dedicated areas for kids to play and enjoy the celebration.
If you prefer an adults-only wedding, it’s okay to specify that on your invitations to avoid any confusion.
Madison Alexis Co.
DON’T Forget to Send Save-the-Dates Early
Once you’ve finalized your guest list, it’s important to send out save-the-dates as soon as possible, especially if you’re planning a destination wedding or if your guests will need to travel.
This gives your guests ample time to make arrangements and ensures that you’ll have a better idea of who can attend.
Save-the-dates are also a great way to get your guests excited about your wedding and give them a glimpse of your theme and style. We love seeing how couples use creative save-the-dates to set the tone for their big day.
DO Be Prepared for Last-Minute Changes
No matter how carefully you plan your guest list, expect some last-minute changes. Guests may have to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances, or you may find that you want to invite someone you initially left off the list. Be flexible and prepared to make adjustments as needed.
Our team is experienced in handling last-minute guest changes, and we’ll work with you to ensure everything goes smoothly, even if your list shifts slightly as the big day approaches.
Crafting the Perfect Guest List for Your Wedding
Crafting the perfect wedding guest list can be challenging, but by following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll create a list that reflects your closest relationships and ensures your day is surrounded by love and support.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we’re here to help make the process as stress-free as possible, so you can focus on celebrating your love with the people who matter most Contact our team of dedicated venue coordinators at (918) 376-3267 to get started!