Your guests are more than just a number

Before you start comparing your guests to the per person pricing from your venue, consider your guests. Your loved ones have come from all parts of the world to see you get married. Even if they are local, they still had to arrange their schedule to make sure they can be there on your special day. Often times, this is over-looked and couples tend to look at their guests like another dollar amount. Target your focus and think from their point of view. Who are your guests? If a handful of them have kids, they had to arrange for a baby-sitter and incurred a cost on their end to make sure they can be there. If they are an elderly grandparent or family friend, it was a struggle for them to get there, but you are worth the sacrifice. If they live in another city, state or country, please consider the amount of money that goes into airline travel, time off work and cost for hotel accommodations. That doesn’t even include the gift they are getting for you. No matter which corner you look at, each of these guests are rearranging their personal lives, finances, and time to be there for your wedding. Don’t let the numbers scare you and it be too late. We all know, budgets are extremely important in the wedding planning process so plan your guest list ahead of time and do not exceed it if you cannot afford to. When you stick to the budget you have agreed to, you will actually be excited at the amount of RSVPs rather than stressing over them. This will take the pressure off of you and remind you to stay in gratitude for your loved ones. With so much that can go on into your wedding day, being the couple that makes personal connection a priority will allow you to stand out and truly show your guests that you have a grateful heart. The presence you bring when you walk up to each guest and give them a hug thanking them for being there for you will go a long way.