So, you're engaged, congratulations! Wedding And Party Network is so excited to hear about your big news. However, are you now stuck on what to do next. You've set the date and figured out your local wedding vendors, now what's next? Now, is the time to start planning out your guest list. This planning process can be extremely stressful and can get out of control. However, we'd like to offer you a few tips on how to manage your gust list.
First off, the majority of your wedding budget will go towards you wedding reception. You have to find a big enough wedding venue with adequate parking. Also, keep in mind that you will have to feed all your guests with your reception food and wedding cake. You have to have enough party favors and so on for every single one of your guests.
Those expenses can add up, quickly. Traditionally the bride's family pays for everything, however, it's becoming common for the bride and groom to pay or even for the groom's family to help out. So, the cost has an impact on everyone involved.
So, how do you determine your guest list? First, sit down and determine exactly what type of wedding you want. Do you want it to be a big affair or a small,intimate celebration? Once you have decide that, you can determine who to invite.
Setting A Number
Set A Max Number – First off, set a max number of people who you'd like to be there and that fit within your budget.
Location – Next, determine your dream location and figure out the maximum number of people your location will hold. Then, go from there and start inviting.
Compiling Lists
Now that you have set a number for your guest list, start compiling names. You and your family and him and his family need to sit down and write out a "must invite guest list". After you've compiled that list, create another list of "want to invite" gusts. If you go over your maximum number, start eliminating. Yes, it's a hard task, but do you really want to go over your budget?
What To Do If You Go Over
If you go over your guest list, don't be afraid to make some cuts. Start with business associates, parent's of your bridal attendants and then move onto distant family members. If you haven't talked to them in over a year, don't be afraid to eliminate them. Even though a certain percentage of your guests won't be able to attend, you still need to be prepared.
Creating a guest list to fit into your budget and venue is an absolute must. Yes, it's a tedious task, but it has to be done. Remember to get full names, addresses and telephone numbers and start mailing out those wedding invitations. Your wedding is going to be absolutely fabulous!
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wedding planner photo provided by wunderkrafts via flickr.
Michael Carabini says
..Its never too early in the wedding planning process to start talking about your guest list. Before you announce that youre having 250 people and start verbally inviting people its a good idea to sit down with your fianc and answer the following questions.