8 Guest List Tips for your North Georgia Wedding

Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. Fear not, we're here to guide you through the process with a smile. 

As a North Georgia wedding venue who’s hosted hundreds of weddings, we’ve listened to our couples and learned what is most important to their special day. So let's dive into five tips for selecting who will be on your wedding guest list:

 

1. To Share or Not to Share

Before you begin your list, be sure you've decided whether or not you’ll share the decision making of who’s invited. Regardless of who’s paying for the wedding, sometimes people have preconceived ideas about the guest list. If you and your fiance are calling all the shots, be clear about this from the beginning.  If you’re going to share, predetermine how it will be divided and make that abundantly clear. Communicating from the onset will save drama and hurt feelings. Happy is the way we want your planning to begin! 

 

2. The VIP Pass Rule

Imagine it’s wedding day at the beautiful north ga wedding venue of your dreams. You’re looking around the room. Who are the ones you spot who makes you say, "OH YAY, you're here!" These are your VIP people. They bring joy to your heart just by showing up. Whether it's your crazy cousin Bernie who tells bad dad jokes or your childhood best friend who knows your most embarrassing stories, these are the ones who make the list without a second thought. They're in!

 

3. No Ring - No Bring Policy

Plus-ones is a true struggle. Especially if you’re one to avoid confrontation, it may be tempting to extend an invitation to your cousin's fifth girlfriend this month. However, it's perfectly okay to stand by a strict no-plus-one policy. Of course, you have the option to give your single guests the opportunity to bring a date. Just keep in mind, every plus-one is an extra cost for food and a potentially awkward introduction to Uncle Bob. A table of singles may be better than 10 plus-ones you don't know and are likely never to see again.

 

4. Meaningful Relationship Rule

Let's talk wedding budgets. From the invitation they receive to the food they'll be eating, it’s a fact of life that every guest you invite is an added expense. So, do prioritize your guest list based on your budget. Consider skipping the friends from high school, college or distant cousins you haven’t seen in three years. This includes not inviting your mom's co-workers, your pet sitter or your yoga instructor. Keep the list to those you know and who are actively involved in your life.  Use the savings for a late night snack delivered to the dance floor or an extra dramatic send off with cold sparks.

 

5. The Squabble Avoidance Tactic

Ah, family drama. Everyone loves you and sometimes weddings bring out the overly helpful relatives. To keep the peace, be diplomatic in your approach to your guest. Even though you only see that one cousin at reunions, consider inviting them if leaving them out might cause family drama. This is your day. You have the power. Use it wisely.

 

6. Kids or No Kids

Adult-only weddings are okay. Weddings with children are okay. This is 100% personal preference. Inviting them will add to your cost, even if you opt for a kid’s meal. Multiple children can change the dynamic of the day from an adult celebration to more of a family reunion, which might be a plus, if that’s your goal. Also, consider that your venue may have policies related to children. Decide on the kind of event that you both want. No guilt either way, as long as you agree.

7. It’s About Us Rule

You’ve chosen your ideal north Georgia venue. You’re working with wonderful vendors. All is well. This day is the beginning of your story. It’s going to go down in your memory as the best day ever. So, if there is a family member or friend who is likely to make a scene, they are better off the list.

 

8. We Owe You One

Over your lifetime, you may have been invited to many weddings and had the opportunity to celebrate with people who were in your life for a season. If they’re still good friends, then they’re already on your wedding list.  If you’ve drifted apart, no need to reciprocate with an invitation only because you were invited to their wedding. Let go of that guilt. It’s okay.

 

Conclusion

Embrace the process, keep your sense of humor, and remember, no matter who attends, your love is the reason for the celebration. Happy planning, and may your guest list be filled with everyone who makes you smile!