Tips on how not to offend those not on the guest list of an intimate wedding celebration
Since the guest list determines so many other factors – the size of the reception venue, the décor requirements, the catering total, the favours bill – compiling it is one of the most important aspects of the entire wedding plan; it is also a common battleground for brides, grooms, and their parents…
As daunting as it may seem when you start out, making the guest list manageable is possible. Try using these guidelines:
Divide evenly: Allocate one third of guests to the bride’s parents, one third to the groom’s parents, and one third to the bride and groom. Unfilled allocations on parents’ lists can revert to the couple.
Cut work buddies: A tough move, but often a good one, since it’s a clear blanket decision. Exceptions can be made for those who are actually close friends.
Don’t return the favour: Cut any guests who are on your list simply because they invited you to their wedding; as everyone’s circumstances differ you don’t need to assume the same measures.
Switch places: Put yourself in the other person’s position – would you be offended if they didn’t invite you to their wedding? Anyone for whom the answer is no gets cut from the list.
Cut out-of-touch friends: If it takes a week’s research to find their contact information, consider cutting them from the list. Your memories may be fond, but they’ll still be intact without this invitation.
No children: While this scenario is not for everyone, an adults-only wedding is a quick and easy way to cut down on numbers. The cut-off age is up to you but couples mostly opt for 16 or 18 years.
Delete guests for singles: Another tough call, but a possibility for the financially strapped couple. If you go this route, look out for your single friends with preferred placement on the seating chart.
