How Many Extra Wedding Invitations Should You Order?
Planning a wedding can be a complex and time-consuming process, with numerous decisions to be made along the way. One of the most crucial aspects of wedding planning is creating a guest list and ordering the necessary invitations. However, determining the exact number of extra wedding invitations to order can be a challenge. In this article, we will provide guidance on how to calculate the right amount of extras to ensure that all your guests receive an invitation, while avoiding unnecessary waste.
The Importance of Extra Wedding Invitations
It's essential to understand that extra wedding invitations serve a few purposes. Firstly, they provide a safeguard in case you forget to send an invitation to a guest or two. Secondly, they allow you to account for last-minute additions to the guest list. Finally, they ensure that you have enough invitations to exchange with guests who bring their plus ones or have unexpected changes in their party size.
Calculate Your Initial Guest List
Before you can determine the number of extra wedding invitations to order, you need to establish an initial guest list. This list should include all the people you plan to invite, including spouses, children, and friends. Be sure to also consider any specific requests you've received, such as plus ones or dietary restrictions.
Factors to Consider When Determining Extra Invitations
- Guest list changes: Be prepared for changes in your guest list, such as last-minute cancellations or additions.
- Plus ones: If you're allowing guests to bring a plus one, factor in an additional invitation for each guest.
- Children's guests: If you're planning a family-friendly wedding, consider the number of children each guest may bring.
- RSVPs: Account for the number of guests who may RSVP late or fail to RSVP altogether.
A General Rule of Thumb
As a general rule of thumb, consider ordering 10-20% more invitations than your initial guest list. This will provide a buffer for any unexpected changes and ensure that all your guests receive an invitation.
Example Calculations
Let's say you're planning a wedding with an initial guest list of 100 people. To account for last-minute changes, plus ones, and other factors, you may want to consider ordering:
| Scenario | Extra Invitations |
|---|---|
| 10% extra | 10 invitations (100 x 0.10) |
| 15% extra | 15 invitations (100 x 0.15) |
| 20% extra | 20 invitations (100 x 0.20) |
Final Thoughts
When it comes to determining the number of extra wedding invitations to order, it's better to err on the side of caution. Consider the factors outlined above and use the general rule of thumb to guide your decision. Remember, it's always better to have a few extra invitations on hand, rather than risk disappointing your guests or running out of invitations.
