Let’s talk about your wedding guest list… I know, I know, it can be stressful (I promise it doesn’t have to be), but it’s part of planning!

First of all, you need to come up with your estimated number of guests – this will depend largely on the ceremony and reception venues that you chose and fell in love with! Are you inviting everyone to the ceremony and reception or some just to the reception? Once you have a rough number of guests for your ceremony and reception, you have more work to do!

I think it’s important to start your own list first – a list made by you and your fiancé. Think about people like your closest family and friends, your high school friends and college roommates, or even your coworkers. Next, start thinking about people like family friends or friends of your parents. List these people out!

Then, it is wonderful to ask for input from your parents, siblings, etc. I definitely think it’s important to make your own list at first in order to narrow in on the people you two want to share your day with, then branch out for help. Of course, you’ve probably unknowingly missed a handful of people and another set of eyes, or two, help. Ultimately, the guest list is up to you and your fiancé, but it is good to try to keep the guest list as close to 50/50 for the bride/groom as possible!

It’s also completely up to you as to whether you offer guests a date or invite children – although I do think it’s a wonderful idea to include “and guest” for those individuals who are in a long-term relationship. Whatever you chose, your guests will understand and respect because it is your wedding day vision! I remember talking a little about this when I wrote about RSVP etiquette earlier this summer, too.

Take your time, discuss this thoroughly, and relax… Because it will all work out and you’ll be married at the end of your wedding day!