Step 1: Create a Visual
Hop into Excel or something similar and create three columns labeled “A List,” “B List,” and “C List.”
Step 2: The “A List”
Under the A List, write down the guests you know will be at your wedding no matter what. These people include your bridal party, your parents and grandparents, and any close friends. Essentially, the A List should represent anyone that is a definite yes.
Step 3: The “B List”
Your second column indicates the B List which includes guests that *might* come. Keep in mind, not everyone will be able to attend. In fact, only about 30-40% of your invited guests will likely make the trip. But not to worry!... This just means you can open your guest list up a bit more than you thought you could!
Step 4: The “C List”
The last and final column is dedicated to the C List, which should name anyone you feel obligated to invite, but know there’s a small chance they’d attend. These people usually include old friends, co-workers, extended family, etc. You need to invite these guests, even though you’re fairly certain they will not travel.
Step 5: Combine Your Numbers
Once you’ve created your A, B, and C Lists, go ahead and add the entire A List with half of the B List to get an idea of how many guests you can expect. This will also be the number of rooms you reserve, assuming there are 2 guests sharing each room. C-listers aren’t considered because they’re not likely to attend at all!
And voila! The perfect guest list in the matter of minutes! For a better idea of what we mean, click here for an example. To connect with a destination wedding planning specialist, click here to get started.