When planning your wedding, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make isn’t about the dress, the décor, or even the venue — it’s about your guest list.
Do you dream of an intimate celebration surrounded by your closest family and friends? Or do you picture a big, lively party with everyone you know dancing under the stars?
The size of your guest list shapes almost every other part of your wedding — from your budget and venue options to catering, transport, and even the atmosphere of the day. So before you dive into décor ideas or menus, it’s important to start here.
Step 1: Sit Down Together
Take a moment to really talk about the kind of wedding you both want.
- Do you want it to feel cozy and personal?
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Or grand and festive?
There’s no right or wrong answer — it’s about what feels right for you as a couple.
Step 2: Create Your A, B & C Lists
Here’s a simple way to organize your thoughts (and keep peace when the parents get involved!):
- List A – The must-haves: immediate family, closest friends, and anyone you couldn’t imagine your day without.
- List B – The would-love-to-have: extended family, old friends, or colleagues you’re close to.
- List C – The nice-to-have: guests you’d include if your budget and venue allow (plus-plus ones or family friends).
Once you have this sorted, you can start adjusting numbers based on your budget, venue capacity, and priorities.
Step 3: Remember the Ripple Effect
Every additional guest affects your catering, seating, transport, and accommodation costs — so even small changes can add up quickly.
Sometimes, a smaller guest list allows you to create a more elevated, personal experience — while a bigger celebration might be perfect if you love a lively crowd. Both can be beautiful in their own way.
Final Tip: Quality Over Quantity
It’s not about how many people attend, but who is there to celebrate your love story.
So focus on building a list that feels authentic to you — one filled with people who make your hearts full.
With love and serendipity,
Chanuki