One of the trickiest aspects of planning a wedding is creating the guest list. The capacity of the venue and the event budget will dictate general numbers, but how do you decide who to invite? The following guide will help you navigate this crucial task.

Make the Ideal List

The first step is to make an ideal list with your significant other. This is where you put down everyone you’d like to be there, regardless of budget or size constraints. Take your time with this task but not too long, as “save the date” cards should go out four to six months in advance of the date. Then, prune the list based on real numbers.

Look At the “Should” List

This is your day, and guests should primarily be those that the two of you really want to celebrate with. However, etiquette does stipulate that those whose wedding you have been in or attended within the last 18 months should be on the list. Immediate family usually takes precedence over friends, but it’s really up to you to decide.

Decide About Children

Children can be fun to have at a wedding, but they can be a disruptive distraction, too; morning and afternoon weddings are better for kids and parents than evening celebrations. If you are planning a formal evening celebration with an elegant sit-down dinner, it may be best to limit kids to those over 12 or 18. If most of the people on the guest list do have small children and will be traveling to attend, including children will make it more likely that they will come. Caterers typically include anyone over 12 in the count for food, so little ones won’t add a lot to the catering cost.

Creating a wedding guest list takes time, so start well in advance of the date. For an exceptional wedding venue that can accommodate up to 400 people, choose the Makoy Center in Hilliard, OH. Their gorgeous location accommodates both indoor and outdoor weddings, and they can handle your linens, equipment, and catering. Call (614) 777-1211 or visit their website to learn about their full range of services.