Hey there Lexington Kentucky lovebirds! Kat here, owner of Kat’s Photos LLC, and today, we’re diving into the world of guest lists and invitations. A topic that can be both exciting and a tad bit stressful. But with a little planning and some helpful tips, you can navigate this like a pro!

HOW MANY GUESTS SHOULD WE INVITE?

This is a big question, and the answer depends on several factors:

• Venue Capacity: Your venue will have a maximum guest count. Don’t squeeze in more people than the space can comfortably accommodate.
• Budget: More guests usually means more expenses. Be realistic about what your budget can handle.
• Intimacy vs. Celebration: Do you dream of a small, intimate ceremony or a grand celebration? This will guide your guest list size.
• Discussions: Chat about a guest number with your partner early on and be prepared to have a conversation with your families (more on that later).

CREATING YOUR GUEST LIST: KEEPING THE PEACE:

Ah, the guest list. It can create family drama! Here are some tips to navigate this smoothly:

• Start Early: Give yourselves ample time to create a draft and get feedback.
• Divide and Conquer: Discuss a fair guest split between your families and yourselves.
• Establish Ground Rules: Agree on a cut-off date for RSVPs and stick to it.
• Be Transparent: Communicate openly with your families about limitations and expectations. Don’t invite Aunt Sue that your family wants there if you’ve never met Aunt Sue! This is your wedding, invite the people that matter most.

Remember: It’s your special day, but also be mindful of cultural traditions or family obligations that might influence the guest list.

THE A/B GUEST LIST: A SMART APPROACH:

• A List (Primary Guest List): This includes your closest family and friends – the “must-haves” for your wedding.
• B List (Secondary Guest List): This list contains additional guests you’d love to invite, but depends on RSVPs from the A-List.

How it Works:

1. Send Invitations to Your A-List: These are your top priority guests.
2. Track RSVPs: As you receive RSVPs from the A-List, mark down who is attending and who is declining.
3. Make Room with Declines: If you have space in your budget and venue due to A-List declines, you can start inviting guests from your B-List.
4. Send B-List Invitations Strategically: Send out all B-List invites at once. Wait until you have a confirmed number of open spots and then send invites with a slightly shorter RSVP deadline.

This approach allows you to create a guest list that reflects your budget and venue limitations while still offering invitations to those you’d love to have there if possible.

WHEN TO SEND OUT THOSE GORGEOUS INVITATIONS?:

Formal weddings (black-tie): Save-the-dates 6-8 months in advance, formal invitations 8-12 weeks before the wedding.

Semi-formal weddings: Save-the-dates 4-6 months in advance, invitations 6-8 weeks before.

Casual weddings: Save-the-dates 2-3 months in advance, invitations 4-6 weeks before.

Always double-check your mailing addresses!

WHAT GOES ON THAT INVITATION? THE ESSENTIAL WORDING:

Your wedding invitations should be beautiful and informative. Here’s what to include:

Your Names & Parents’ Names (if applicable): Formal and respectful.

Request to Attend: “The honor of your presence is requested…”

Date, Time, Location: Clear and easy to understand.

RSVP Information: Include a deadline and preferred method (phone, online, etc.)

• Attire: Black-tie, cocktail, or casual? Let your guests know.
• Reception Information (Optional): If the reception is at a different location, mention it.
• Website (Optional): Include your wedding website for more details such as what to wear and a registry.
• Tip: Proofread everything meticulously before hitting print! (Staples off of Harrodsburg Rd in Lexington will do a test print for free!)

And Finally, Capture Those Memories!

Let’s create visuals that tell the story of your perfect day. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about wedding photography or navigating the guest list.