HOW TO CREATE A GUEST LIST THAT FEELS RIGHT (Without Losing Sleep or Friends)
Crafting your guest list is one of the trickiest parts of wedding planning. It’s emotional. It’s political. It’s budget-driven.
And sometimes, it’s the first moment the wedding starts feeling REAL, and let’s get it right because your guest list sets the tone for the entire day. From the venue you choose, to the overall vibe, to how intimate (or wild!) the party feels, your guest list is the foundation.
Start with your non-negotiables. These are your ride-or-dies: family, chosen family, and besties who’ve seen you cry over wine and cheered your biggest wins. If you’d call them with good news (or bad), they belong on this list. After that, build outward. Do you want to invite work friends? Distant cousins? Plus-ones? Remember: every person adds to the energy (and the catering cost), so be intentional.
If your list is getting long and your budget’s feeling tight, stand your ground and cut back on those third cousins, and plus ones!
OUR TIP: The one-year rule: if you haven’t spoken or messaged them in a year (and they’re not immediate family), they likely don’t need a seat.
OR try the vibe test: if picturing them at your wedding doesn't bring joy, they’re not your people for your day.
Lastly, trust your gut. You don’t owe anyone a spot out of obligation. Your wedding isn’t about fulfilling family politics or managing expectations, it’s about creating a space where you feel safe, celebrated, and surrounded by genuine connection. After all who’s paying the bill…
Oh, and one more tip? Make a “B list” for those maybe guests. If you get a few early regrets, you’ll know exactly who to call up. Just keep that list on the lowdown. No one needs to know which list they fell under.
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