Although your wedding day is primarily for you and your fiancé, there are, no doubt, friends and relatives whom you wish to share your joy with.
A party isn't a party without people around.
So, once you have chosen the date and the venues, it is time to start thinking about who you want to invite.
The guest list is one of the most important aspects of your wedding plans - as well as the aspect that creates the most potential for argument.
There are some simple ways to keep the stress away, however.
One of the first things you should do is sit down with your fiancé and determine how large you want the wedding to be.
If you have already done that, be sure to consider your budget.
A larger number will cost you more, especially for more formal events.
If you cannot afford to feed 100 guests, you will need to reduce the number of invites on your list.
If you can't afford additional guests, request that your single friends not bring dates (unless they are seriously involved in a long-term relationship).
Remember that the number of guests must fit within the budget you have already established for your wedding plans.
Also consider the venues you have chosen.
The chapel may not hold as many guests as the reception hall, and some people who are included on one list may have to be left off of the other.
If you wish to have dancing at your reception, be sure to take into account the number of tables you can reasonably fit and still have room for a dance floor.
Make your list to reflect that number.
As you make your wedding plans, be sure that the locations you have chosen will support the number of people you wish to invite.
Also consider that extremely formal events may not be suitable for children, and that they may have to be left off of the guest list.
It is extremely important to remember that this day belongs to you and your fiancé.
The two of you should be the first to choose who is invited.
Naturally, there will be close family and friends on both sides who will be on the list.
Talk with your fiancé and determine how many guests the two of you will be personally inviting.
Once you have done that, divide the remaining available invitations between parents.
They will, no doubt, have their own list of people they wish to include.
Do not be afraid to say "no" to anyone else's request.
You may have to tell Grandma that she cannot invite the long distant cousin she hasn't seen in forty-five years.
Remember, this is YOUR day.
It is important to let your friends and relatives share in that joy, but be sure that invitations are sent only to those that you and your fiancé will both be happy to see there.
With a little work, you will be able to create a guest list that makes you, your fiancé, and your families happy.
When this is finished, you have completed a vital part of your wedding plans.
It's time to start sending out those invitations!