One of the most important things couples need to decide when planning their wedding is the size of the guest list. The guest list can dictate the rest of the wedding planning process and how much you will be spending. Moreover, with the pandemic still around, the number of guests you can invite may be limited by the venue’s policy or the government’s regulations. It’s crucial to consider different factors when deciding on the size of your wedding guest list. In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips to help you determine your guest list size while keeping your budget and the pandemic in mind.
1. Determine your budget
One of the biggest factors that will determine the size of your wedding guest list is your budget. The more guests you invite, the more you’ll spend on things like catering, venue, invitations, chairs, and tables. You should sit down with your partner and decide on a realistic budget before proceeding with anything else. Consider the cost per head and how much you can afford to pay.
2. Start with the “must-invite” list
Make a list of the people you absolutely must invite, such as close family and friends. Try and limit this list as much as possible since this will give you a clearer idea of how many additional guests you can invite. You might want to ask your parents if they have a list too, but the final decision should come down to you and your partner.
3. Think about venue capacity and location
Before finalizing your guest list, you should also take into consideration the capacity and location of your wedding venue. Some venues have limits as to how many people they can accommodate, while others may charge extra fees. Likewise, if your wedding is going to be held in another city or country, you have to consider the distance and how many guests will be traveling to attend the wedding.
4. Consider the pandemic
It’s no secret that the pandemic has made weddings challenging in many ways, including how many guests you can invite. Depending on the location and the government’s regulations, the venue might be allowed to accommodate only a limited number of guests. Moreover, some guests may not feel comfortable attending large gatherings, or they are not vaccinated yet. Consider such factors when determining your guest list.
5. Be realistic and open-minded
When it comes to creating your guest list, it’s essential to be realistic and open-minded. You may not be able to invite everyone you want, but it’s best to focus on those closest to you. You might also want to consider having a small and intimate wedding, which can be just as beautiful and memorable as a big one. Besides, fewer guests mean you’ll have more time to spend with each one of them.
Conclusion:
Creating your wedding guest list is a crucial part of the wedding planning process. You want to be sure that you include your closest friends and family while keeping your budget in mind. You should also consider the capacity and location of the venue while keeping the pandemic restrictions in mind. Regardless of how long or short your guest list is, the most important thing is that you feel happy and excited about the people you invite to share your special day.