The wedding planning process, from engagement to vows, is filled with all kinds of fun pre-wedding events for you, friends and family. Of course, you’re focused on the wedding right now and rightfully so! However, it’s important to remember that you’ll need to create guest lists for other celebrations, too. Deciding whom to invite to what celebration can be a little tricky.
We’ve put together a simple breakdown of wedding events and a general guideline to help you decide who is invited to what. Remember, ultimately the decision is up to you. So if this list doesn’t suit your needs exactly, switch it up! Your wedding is about what makes you happy.
Let’s talk through the categories of invitees.
Bridal Party – The bridal party often refers to the bride’s attendants such as the maid of honor and bridesmaids.
Wedding Party – The wedding party refers to all attendants: maid of honor, bridesmaids, best man, groomsmen, ushers, ring bearer and/or flower girl.
Family – Family includes your side of the family and your future spouse’s side of the family. You may invite more or less of each depending on the size of the event.
Close Family Members – this usually means immediate family of the bride and groom, like parents and siblings. Some people might have an aunt or cousin they consider close family. It all depends on your relationship to the person.
Friends – Friends can be childhood besties, college buddies, coworkers, longtime neighbors, etc. This category is big for a reason!
Out of Town Guests – Some of your guests may be traveling long distances for your wedding. Many couples choose to invite them to the rehearsal dinner or brunch as a thoughtful gesture.
Other – This category includes people you’re inviting that may not fit into a specific category: coworkers, bosses, parents’ friends, business partners, etc.
Why is there more friends than family