Most newlywed couples will readily agree that the issue that sparked the most controversy during their wedding planning was the guest list. Usually guest lists are split three ways, with both sets of parents and the couple getting a share of invitees.
However, it is the general rule that whoever is hosting the wedding (the couple or their parents, both the couple and their parents, or another relative) determines the number of guests that can comfortably be afforded. Considerate hosts will try to allocate an equitable share of the guest list to both the bride and the groom.
The final guest list should represent a balanced view of meaningful people from the couple’s lives.
Here are the most common questions I get asked at www.trinidadweddings.com:
Q. How can I cut down the guest list?
A.
• Have a destination wedding
• Have an adult-only reception
• Don’t invite co-workers, every single neighbour or distant relatives
Q. Do I have to invite my boss?
A. You are not obligated to invite anyone to your wedding, your boss included! If you have a good relationship with your boss or if you work for a small firm, it would be a lovely gesture to invite him/her. However, if you think your boss may feel like an outsider amongst your relatives and close friends or if you work in a very large corporation, it may be a better choice to omit the boss from your list.
Q. Is it a must that single friends must be invited with a date?
A. Single friends do not necessarily have to be invited with a date, especially if you have budgetary limitations. This decision is entirely up to whoever is hosting the wedding. However, the host may want to consider inviting a date for a friend who is in a long-term relationship or engaged.
Q. Can I invite my ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend to my wedding?
A. This is a decision a couple should make. If you and your ex have remained friends and your fiancé(e) does not mind, by all means do so. If however, this decision makes either of you uncomfortable, it is best to stay away from inviting the exes and avoid awkward moments on your special day!
Q. What should I do when guests don’t RSVP?
A. RSVP stands for “Repondez S'il Vous Plait” which is French for “Please reply”. The reality is that despite providing RSVP information on your invitation, a large majority of your guests may never confirm their attendance. If by a certain date you have not heard from a guest, by all means, call and ensure they will be attending. If you fail to do this, you may run short of food and seats!
