Here's How Many People You Should Invite To Your Wedding

Ruth Terrero Photography

While there are many fun aspects to planning a wedding - like finding your perfect wedding venue or trying on your wedding dress - there are also not so fun tasks. One not-so-fun task? Figuring out how many people to invite to your wedding. 

You know you can’t invite every single person you’ve met but you also don’t want to leave anyone out. And of course some family members will have opinions. So what do you do? Read on for your guide on how many guests to have at your wedding. 

Is There an Average Guest Count for Weddings? 

If you’ve been to weddings in the past, you know that no two weddings are alike - especially when it comes to location, decor, and theme. That being said, you and your partner can invite as many or as few guests as you’d like.

The Factors in Determining Your Wedding Guest List 

While there are no set rules for the number of guests at your wedding, you can take into account a few factors to help you decide on a final number. 

1. Budget 

• This probably comes as no surprise but the more people you invite to your wedding, the more it’s going to cost. More guests means more food, beverages, rentals, linens, flowers, etc. You may think a couple extra guests here and there won’t make a big difference - but it does!

2. Venue

• Another factor in determining your guest count is your wedding venue. Most wedding venues have a capacity limit (unless you’re getting married on private property), which limits your capacity. Additionally, you’ll have to factor in lodging - especially if it’s on the wedding venue property. 

3. The Vibe

• A 200 person wedding is very different from a 50 person wedding. If your vibe is more personal and intimate, consider limiting the guest count. But if you’ve always dreamed of a big wedding, then the more guests, the better!

4. Don’t Make Assumptions 

• Just because you think someone will - or won’t - attend, doesn’t mean it’s true! Although there is a typical 75-80% return on RSVP rules, that’s not always the case. After all, who doesn’t love to celebrate love! Assume everyone you invite will attend unless they specifically RSVP “no.” 

Who Has the Final Verdict?

Deciding who to invite to your wedding can get a little complicated when a family member is contributing monetarily to your wedding; sometimes they feel they’re entitled to have a say in the final guest count. However, if they are only contributing to certain aspects (like flowers or catering), their decision-making jurisdiction should be limited to those aspects. That’s often easier said than done, though. While you can absolutely be collaborative with family members (and even friends), it’s ultimately up to you and your partner to decide who to invite to your wedding. After all, the last thing you want is unnecessary drama from an unwanted guest!