Cut the Guest list not the Budget
Wanting that luxurious magazine-worthy wedding, but finding it hard to balance that ever increasing budget? Consider narrowing down the guest.
Cutting the guest list can be a difficult decision when planning a wedding, but it can also be a smart way to control the budget without sacrificing the overall experience. Here are some tips to help you pare down your guest list while still ensuring that your day is just as special as you've always imagined.
Prioritize close family and friends: When it comes to reducing the guest list, start by focusing on the people who matter most to you. Invite your closest family members and friends who have been there for you through thick and thin.
Consider a destination wedding: Destination weddings can be an intimate affair and often have smaller guest lists. A destination wedding can also provide a unique and memorable experience for both you and your guests.
Be selective with coworkers: When it comes to coworkers, it's okay to be selective, it’s ok to invite no one from work. Consider inviting only those with whom you have a close relationship, and avoid inviting coworkers who you rarely interact with outside of work. Sorry Karen from HR, your cut.
Limit plus-ones: While it's important to consider the comfort of your guests, limiting the number of plus-ones can help keep the guest list manageable. You may want to consider a no plus-one rule, or only allowing plus-ones for those who are in a serious, committed relationship.
Opt for a smaller venue: A smaller venue can help keep the guest list manageable, and it can also help create an intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Be honest and direct: If you have to make tough decisions about who to invite and who not to invite, be honest and direct with your guests. Explain that you have a limited budget, and that you are focusing on creating an intimate and memorable experience for those who matter most to you.
Ask your invitation designer to include an R.S.V.P. card for guests to return. Insist on the R.S.V.P. responses as soon as possible. Last-minute drop outs are costing you money that could be better spent elsewhere!
In the end, the most important thing is to remember that your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other, not about pleasing everyone on your guest list. By being mindful of your budget and making smart decisions about who to invite, you can create a wedding day that is truly special and memorable.
Our Top Tips on cutting the guest list
If you haven’t spoken in the last 12 months, they get cut.
Big family? Unless your truly close to great Aunt Georgina, she’s cut, Sorry.
Destination wedding? Consider guests covering the cost of their on site accommodation. The savings can be put towards a fun excursion.
A wedding planner can help you keep on track with your budget.