Now What ? Step 1: Defining Your Guest Count – A Crucial First Step in Wedding Planning

 

When you start planning your wedding, it’s easy to overlook just how much your guest count will affect the entire process. It’s not just about figuring out who’s sitting where—your guest list actually plays a huge role in two key areas: your budget and your venue.

The more guests you invite, the bigger your wedding budget needs to be. So, think about this: do you picture a big, lively celebration with all your extended family, friends, and acquaintances? Or are you leaning toward a smaller, more intimate gathering with just your closest loved ones?

Either way, having a bigger guest list means you’ll need more chairs, tables, food, and favors—and those little things can really add up fast! Knowing your guest count early on can help keep everything in sync, from choosing a venue to staying on track with your budget. Trust me, it makes the planning process so much smoother!


Alright, let’s talk numbers. If you’re planning to invite around 100-150 guests to your wedding, you can expect to spend anywhere from $30,000 to $45,000. And if your guest list is closer to 200 people, the cost could be around $60,000. I know, it can feel like a lot, but take a deep breath — we can totally work with this!

Weddings can be pricey, but here’s where a wedding planner like me can really help. I can guide you through the process, find ways to save, and help stretch that budget further without sacrificing what matters most to you. Plus, it’s super important to remember to balance your wedding budget with your everyday needs — no need to overdo it and cause stress down the line.

The goal is to have the wedding of your dreams and to feel financially comfortable afterward. You’ve got this! And I’m here to help every step of the way.

Keep on Thriving,
Markeeta Marty

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