Shortening the guest list is THE best way to cut costs on your wedding budget.
While this is very true this is a very hard thing to do in action. There will be loads of pressure internal and external to invite certain people to your wedding. But if you are certain and serious about trying to get the most from your wedding budget this is THE best way to do this.
For every guest there are costs: save the date, wedding invitations, chair, table setting, linen, meal, beverages, etc Then take that number and multiply it by the number of guests that are extra… the money adds up quickly.
But again this process of cutting is difficult and where to begin?
-When did you talk to them last, has it been in the last 3-5 years?
-Will you notice or miss them if they are not there?
-Are they on the list because you deeply desire them present or because of a feeling of obligation?
Another great thing to help keep your budget down is cut down costs in areas that are less important to you and your fiance.
Examples of areas that could be cut:
-Open bar could be moved to Cash bar or only beer and wine
-Meal: move from a plated dinner to a buffet.
-One location for wedding and reception, this can cut back on costs for transportation and instead just need to have a room flip