According to The Knot 2018 Real Weddings Study, the average wedding costs $33,931. Based on this same study, 10% of weddings host between 200-300 people. You’ve probably heard the phrase “weddings are expensive” more than once, but you may be surprised to know that the number of people who attend your wedding can directly affect your budget – for better or worse.
Don’t get me wrong – your guests matter! They are there to share in your celebration of marriage, and we love them for that! However, let’s dive in and look at the ways that ever-increasing guest list can mean more cost across the board, and how you can try to (thoughtfully!) narrow your guest list so you can use your money strategically when planning your wedding.
Stationery
Stationery, which is typically priced on a per-item rate, should consist of save-the-dates, your invitation suite, and postage for all of this to be mailed to each guest. Your stationer can also provide escort cards, place cards, and menus per guest if needed. These costs can add up when you need to purchase for hundreds of guests. Even cutting your list by 20 people could potentially save you a couple hundred dollars, which may then be allocated to paying for the dreamy calligraphy addressing you’ve been eyeing on Pinterest!
Rentals
When it comes to rentals, your needs can vary, but the list may be more extensive than you think! Tables and chairs are usually provided by your venue, but what about the linens, china, chargers, flatware, and glassware that you’ll need for each table? These are some contributing items that help make your event both functional and well-designed, and keeping your headcount to a reasonable number will allow for more options when you’re deciding how to spend your money in this area. Who knows, maybe you’ll even save enough in the budget to rent a gorgeous lounge area for your non-dancing guests to enjoy?
Florals
The floral factor takes simple math: more guests equals more tables with more centerpieces. It doesn’t matter whether you go with low and lush arrangements in compotes or tall statement-makers in vases, each table on your floor plan will need a centerpiece. Narrow down your guest list so you can narrow down those tables, and then save a little cash in the process!
Food & Drinks
This is the category that immediately comes to mind for most when considering the number of people they can invite. We all know each guest deserves a meal and maybe a few drinks when they attend your wedding, so consider the cost per person when coming up with your guest list.
If you’re providing alcohol, the general rule to calculate the amount you need for an evening wedding is one serving per person each hour. Therefore, if your reception of 250 guests will last 4 hours, you’ll be needing 1,000 drink servings. Lower that guest count to 200, and you’ll only need 800 drink servings as well as having quite a few less meals to purchase.
How to edit your guest count
Now that you’re feeling motivated to give that guest list a second look, it’s time to determine how you can slim down the numbers. I know – this can be so challenging. From your mom’s tight-knit monthly book club members, to your dad’s weekend golf buddies, not to mention the distant relatives who live across the country, you’re probably asking yourself, “HOW it would ever be possible to lower the headcount?” I get it, this is a tricky task to tackle.
Here are a few articles with some ideas that may help you navigate this process:
I hope your wheels are turning, and that you’re considering this perspective on balancing your wedding budget. In the end, though, your friends and family will be the spirit of your wedding. You want your lifelong support system to be present with you, and help mark this important milestone in your life. They want to make you feel especially loved, and who can put a price tag on people like that?
