Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but one of the most challenging aspects is creating the guest list. You want to celebrate your special day with the people who mean the most to you, but it can be tough to decide who to invite and who to leave on the backup list. To help you navigate this delicate process, here are five tips to help you filter your wedding guest list and identify your VIPs.
 

1. Start with Your Must-Haves

Begin by making a list of the absolute must-have guests. These are the people you can't imagine celebrating your big day without. This typically includes immediate family members, close friends, and anyone who holds a special place in your heart. Prioritize those who share a deep and meaningful bond with you both and those who’s presence uplifts the atmosphere and contribute to your overall happiness.
 

2. Consider Your Wedding Vision

Think about the vision you have for your wedding day. Are you dreaming of an intimate, small gathering or a grand affair with a large crowd? Your wedding style, budget and venue selection will play a significant role in determining the number of guests you can invite. If you envision an intimate gathering, you may need to limit your guest list to only the closest family and friends.
 

3. Consider the Kids

If you're inviting families with children, decide whether you'd like to include kids in your guest list. While some couples welcome children, others prefer an adults-only affair. Be consistent with your decision and communicate it clearly on your invitations. Keep in mind that if you opt for an adults-only wedding, some parents may be unable to attend, so be understanding of their circumstances and choices. This would open some spaces to include anyone on your backup list.
 

4. Create a Point System

Assign points to potential guests based on your relationship with them and other relevant factors. For example, immediate family members might receive the highest score, followed by close friends, extended family, coworkers, and acquaintances. This point system can help you objectively evaluate your connections and prioritize those who should be on the official guest list. Those with lower scores can be added to the backup list. (click here to see a detailed example)
 

5. Think About Past, Present, and Future

When deciding whether to invite someone, consider your past, present, and future relationship with them. Have they been a consistent part of your life? Are they likely to remain in your life in the coming years? It's important to invite people who have played a significant role in your journey and who you see as being a part of your future as well.
 
Remember that creating a guest list is a highly personal decision. You should prioritize the people who matter most to you and your partner. While it's impossible to please everyone, thoughtful consideration and communication can help you make the tough choices. Ultimately, your wedding day should be a celebration of your love, surrounded by those who bring you the most joy and happiness.
 
XOXO,
Lili

Photo by: Soileh Photography