How to Decide Who Makes the Cut Without the Guilt
I’m not a mind reader, but if I could read your mind, I’d guess that choosing your wedding guest list might be causing you a bit of stress - or maybe even some frustration. Am I right?
Well, here’s the good news…
You’re not alone. Many of my clients struggle with this very issue, and I’ve been there myself not too long ago. That’s exactly why I’ve put together this guide to help you decide who makes the cut without feeling guilty.
Photographer: Captured By Georgie | Stylist & Planner: Libby Styles
1. Will You Be Friends in Five Years?
One of my favorite tricks for narrowing down your guest list is to ask yourself: Will I still be friends with this person in five years? If the answer is no, then it might be time to reconsider their invitation. Your wedding is a celebration of your future, and it’s okay to be selective about who shares that special moment with you.
2. How Do You Feel About Their Presence?
Another important question to ask yourself is: How does it make me feel to have this person at my wedding? If the thought doesn’t excite you or, worse, if you really don’t want them there, then don’t feel obligated to invite them. Remember, this day is about you and your partner, and you deserve to be surrounded by people who make you feel happy and loved.
Photographer: Captured By Georgie | Stylist & Planner: Libby Styles
3. Navigating the Awkward +1 Request
We’ve all been there - someone asks to bring a +1, but you’re already juggling a tight guest list. How do you handle it without feeling awkward? Here’s my advice: Be honest but polite. You can say something like, “We’re keeping our guest list very limited, so unfortunately we can’t accommodate any additional guests.” Trust me, people will understand, especially when you’re clear and respectful about your boundaries.
4. It’s Not Just About the Meal
When someone asks to bring an extra guest, it’s easy to think it’s just one more meal, but there’s more to consider. That extra person means another set of invitations, menus, name tags, and even cutlery, plates, and glasses. These little details add up quickly, both in terms of cost and logistics. Keeping your guest list tight helps manage these extras, ensuring your day stays within budget and stress-free.
Photographer: Captured By Georgie | Stylist & Planner: Libby Styles
5. This Is Your Day
At the end of the day, remember that this is your special moment. No family member or friend can tell you who you should or shouldn’t invite. It’s your wedding, and you have every right to decide who gets to share it with you. Stay true to your vision and trust your instincts.
There you have it! Some top tips for choosing the right guest list from your wedding wingwoman, who’s always here to help create a stress-free and enjoyable lead-up to your big day.
Always in your corner, cheering you on!
P.S. If you’ve just started to plan your wedding, make sure to download our FREE wedding road map HERE helping you to navigate, who to book first and how to manage your timeline.