Wedding Guest List 101

 

You’re engaged and it’s time to start planning. One of the first things you should do is make a guest list. But who should be invited? Who gets a plus one? And how many people will actually attend? See below for help with creating your wedding guest list.

  1. Who should get a plus 1 invite? Anyone who is engaged, married, or living with their partner. Traditionally, your wedding party members should also be offered a plus one.

  2. How many people will RSVP no? If your wedding is local, with most guests coming from nearby, you can expect 15-20% to RSVP no. If you are having a destination wedding that number is usually 20-30%. That said, as covid declines, we are seeing those rates decline as more people are wanting to get out and socialize.

  3. How should it be made clear that kids are not invited? There are a few kind ways to word this. On the RSVP card you can say “[X] seats have been reserved in your honor. Please let us know if you will be joining us!” You can also make it clear on your wedding website “We hope you will understand our decision to make the wedding children-free, and take the opportunity to let your hair down and celebrate in style!”

 
Laura Gardner