Yes, making up a guest list can be more stressful than imagined. Here are some tips that may help to make the job easier.
Decide on a budget - Knowing how much you can spend and how much the caterer charge per person will give an idea on the number of people that you are able to invite.
Split the guest list 50/50 - Unless one of you has far fewer relatives and friends, it usually works best to allow the bride's family to make up half of the guest list and the groom's family to do the same.
Although you are never required to invite children, you should always be sure to include the 'significant other' of any guest that is invited. Ditch the "AND GUEST" pals who do not have a long term love can attend solo. It is not required to invite 'dates' for single guests.
If you need to cut down on the number of people you invite, try omitting children. This is accomplished by simply not putting the childrens' names on the invitation. But make your 'no children' policy known to those who may be asked, such as your parents, attendants, etc.
You can also consider omitting business associates or co-workers from your guest list unless they are very good friends. If you can though, invite your boss or assistant.
Avoid the chain gangs. If putting just one person on your list compels you to add the six others you associate with him or her, drop them all.
Distant relatives are another omission possibility.
If you are receiving many regrets from your first mailing of invitations, it is perfectly acceptable to do a second mailing. Be sure you are giving your invited guests ample time to respond.
And yes, conflicts do arise, and if they happen, choose your battles, be firm, but give in if it is a small issue and it looks like emotions are running wild. Arguments are not worth winning if they mean you and your mom are not speaking.
