Finding true love and getting engaged is a momentous occasion for any couple. As you go about planning your nuptials, you’ll need to find the perfect wedding venue based on your desired aesthetic and the size of your wedding party. Before you consider venue rentals and catering needs, here are a few tips to ensure that you create a comprehensive and budget-conscious guest list.

How to Create Your Wedding Guest List

1. Start With Your Dream List

After the engagement, deciding on a date and securing a wedding venue should be the first priorities. Before you can select your setting, it’s essential to have a sense of how many people the site needs to accommodate. To better understand what that will look like, start by sitting down with your partner and mapping out your dream list of guests. Include family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors you’d want to be present on your special day. Don’t forget to account for plus ones and children. Once you have the dream list in mind, you can start pairing down as needed.

2. Determine How the List Will Get Divided

As a general rule of thumb, both families will contribute financially to this special occasion. Before getting into the details regarding budget and covering costs, determine how you’d like to divvy up the guest list amongst both families so that expectations are set. This includes knowing what extended family will be invited or if the event will be for immediate family only.

3. Establish Cut Down Rules

To reach a manageable number of guests, connect with your partner, and establish a set of rules. These rules can be unique to your friend group and partnership, but be sure to stick to them. Should you decide to keep the affair adults only, refrain from giving individual guests special privileges, such as bringing their children. When cut downs are needed, set rules such as limiting invitations to people you have seen and connected with in the last year. 

4. Create Boundaries With Your Parents

It’s natural for your parents to get excited about your nuptials. While they may have their own opinions on the wedding venue and other financial decisions, establish boundaries when it comes to invitations. Make it clear that you and your partner will be making the decisions about who is and is not invited. This will allow you to feel comfortable and ensures that the day is about you and your loved ones. 

Are you looking for a beautiful wedding venue that offers delicious catering and photo-worthy outdoor views? If so, Jordan Hill Farm in the heart of Madison County, WI, is the ideal location for your nuptials. Nestled on 85 acres of picturesque countryside, this venue rental is perfect for a chic barn wedding. To schedule a tour of the grounds, call them today at (859) 623-0807. For more information on their amenities and to get to know the area, visit their website.