A Grand Wedding: 150 Guests And Their Plus Ones

Planning a wedding guest list can be a tricky task. While the right number of guests is ultimately up to the couple, there are a few factors to consider when deciding on a number. One of the most important factors is budget. The number of guests will impact costs for catering, venue, and other rental expenses. Another factor is the venue's capacity. The venue may have a maximum number of guests allowed, or the couple may want to find a venue that suits the number of people they plan to invite. The type of wedding also plays a role in the guest list length. For example, elopements typically have 3-5 guests, micro weddings have 10-20, and intimate weddings have under 75. A guest list of 75 to 150 people is considered average, while a guest list over 150 is considered a big wedding. It's also worth noting that the average wedding attendance rate is around 75-85%, so it's important to plan for a range of possible outcomes.

Budgeting for a large wedding

Determine Your Guest List and Budget:

Firstly, it is important to have a clear idea of how many people you plan to invite. The average wedding guest list size was 115 people in 2023, but if you're inviting 150, you're planning a larger wedding. The number of guests will directly impact your budget, as there is a per-head cost for food and drinks, which are usually the biggest expenses. Create a detailed guest list, considering whether you will invite children, plus-ones, and coworkers. This will help you estimate the overall cost.

Choose Your Priorities:

Decide on your must-haves and priorities for the wedding. Do you want a designer gown, a live band, or extravagant floral arrangements? Identify the aspects that are most important to you and allocate your budget accordingly. Be prepared to make compromises and adjustments to ensure your budget stays on track.

Break Down Your Budget:

Create a comprehensive budget breakdown to allocate funds for different expenses. Here are some categories to consider:

• Reception venue, catering, and rentals: This typically takes up a significant portion of the budget (around 45%). It includes the venue, catering, bartending, tables, chairs, linens, etc.
• Wedding planner/coordinator: Allocating 5-15% of your budget for a wedding planner can help you stay organized and may even save you money by negotiating with vendors.
• Photography and/or videography: Great photos are a must, so allocate around 12% for this.
• Reception music/entertainment: Plan to spend about 10% on a DJ, band, or other entertainment to keep your guests engaged.
• Stationery: Budget about 2% for invitations, RSVP cards, thank-you notes, and other wedding stationery.
• Flowers and decor: It's easy to overspend on flowers and decor, so stick to around 10% of your budget for this category.
• Wedding attire and beauty: Allocate about 9% for your wedding attire, alterations, accessories, hair, and makeup.
• Wedding cake and desserts: Your catering costs may not include the cake, so set aside around 2% for this.
• Transportation: Budget for transportation for the wedding party and guests, which is usually around 2-3% of the total budget.
• Wedding rings: Don't forget to include the cost of wedding bands and any insurance in your budget.
• Extras and contingency: Always have a buffer in your budget for unexpected expenses. Set aside 5-15% for any last-minute additions or emergencies.

Track Your Spending:

Stay organized by using a spreadsheet or a budget app to track your expenses. Open a dedicated bank account for wedding expenses, and be sure to get all the tax and fee information from vendors upfront. Budget for vendor tips as well, which are usually expected.

Save Where You Can:

Cut costs where possible by comparing prices, renting instead of buying, and choosing affordable options for stationery, decor, and attire. You can also save by opting for a minimalist theme or skipping certain traditions like a wedding cake or videography. Remember, it's your day, so tailor your budget to your priorities and make choices that align with your vision.

Venue capacity

When it comes to wedding planning, one of the most important factors to consider is the venue capacity. It is crucial to choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate all your guests, ensuring they have a pleasant experience. Here are some key considerations regarding venue capacity when inviting 150 people to your wedding:

Space Requirements:

Firstly, it is essential to understand the minimum space requirements for your guest count. For a sit-down dinner, the space needed varies depending on the table size. For instance, an 8-guest table with a 60” table or a 10-guest table with a 72” table will have different space requirements. Additionally, you will need to account for extras such as a head table for the bridal party, a dance floor, a band or DJ area, a cake table, a gift table, bars, and buffet or food stations. Each of these elements requires a certain amount of space, and working with a wedding planner or venue coordinator can help ensure all these extras are adequately accommodated.

Square Footage Calculations:

To determine the minimum square footage required for your venue, you can use online event space calculators. These tools allow you to input the expected number of guests and receive an estimate of the necessary square footage. For a mixed seated and standing crowd, such as a reception with some seating and a dance floor, a good rule of thumb is to allow for 8 to 9 square feet per person. For example, a 150-person event would require approximately 1,200 to 1,350 square feet of usable space.

Venue Sourcing:

When sourcing venues, consider not only the number of guests but also the layout and functionality of the space. A venue that is too large relative to the number of guests can make the event feel sparse, while a venue that is too small will be uncomfortable and difficult to navigate. It is essential to strike a balance. Look for venues that offer flexibility in terms of room configuration and can accommodate your desired setup, whether it's a sit-down dinner, a standing cocktail hour, or a mix of both.

Fire Codes and Safety:

When considering venue capacity, always comply with local fire codes and safety regulations. The maximum capacity of a venue is typically determined by fire codes, which vary by municipality and depend on factors such as the type of establishment and exit routes. While you cannot exceed the maximum capacity indicated, it is also important to consider guest comfort and experience. For example, if your guest list is 150, you may want to consider venues with a slightly higher capacity to ensure adequate space for your attendees.

Backup Venues:

When planning for a specific venue capacity, it is a good idea to have a backup venue in mind. In some cases, your desired venue may not be able to accommodate your guest list due to space constraints or fire code regulations. Having a backup option ensures that you can still host your event comfortably and safely if any last-minute changes or adjustments are needed.

Plus-ones

When inviting 150 people to your wedding, it's important to consider the venue capacity and your budget. The number of guests you invite will directly impact your spending, so it's crucial to plan accordingly.

Now, let's focus on the topic of "plus-ones".

Who Gets a Plus-One?

The general rule is that married guests, engaged couples, and those who live together are usually invited as a social unit. It is considered proper etiquette to invite both members of a married couple, even if you are closer to one spouse than the other. This rule also applies to engaged couples and those who live together.

It is customary to offer a plus-one to everyone in the bridal party. This is a way to show appreciation for their efforts and support. However, it is not mandatory, and you can decide based on your relationship with the bridal party members and your budget constraints.

Additional Guests: Clear Criteria

If you decide to offer plus-ones to single guests outside the bridal party, it is advisable to have clear and consistent criteria. For example, you could allow only single attendants to bring an additional person. This approach ensures fairness and avoids hurt feelings.

Seating Arrangements for Couples and Single Guests

When creating your seating plan, aim for a comfortable dynamic for solo guests. Avoid seating singles between married couples or overly affectionate pairs. Instead, place them between friendly, outgoing couples they might get along with to encourage a communal feel.

Handling Requests for Plus-Ones

Guests who do not receive a plus-one may still reach out to ask for one. It is recommended to handle these requests individually and with empathy. Inquire about the status of their relationship, and if it has progressed to a more serious level, consider including their partner. If you don't have the capacity, it is acceptable to politely decline, stating that it is an intimate affair.

The "No Ring, No Bring" Rule

The "no ring, no bring" rule is controversial and not considered proper etiquette by some. It is more inclusive to offer plus-ones to guests in serious relationships, whether married, engaged, or not.

Knowing the Names of Plus-Ones

Make an effort to know the names of all plus-ones and ensure they are correctly written on the invitation and other wedding stationery. This shows attention to detail and is the polite thing to do.

Whether to offer plus-ones to single friends and family members is a personal decision. Some couples choose to give plus-ones to all single guests, while others only offer them to those who won't know anyone else at the wedding. It is essential to consider your budget and the dynamics of your guest list when making this decision.

In conclusion, when deciding on plus-ones for your wedding with 150 invited guests, consider your budget, venue capacity, and the dynamics of your guest list. Be consistent and clear in your criteria, and handle any requests for plus-ones with empathy and individual consideration.

Children

If you're inviting 150 people to your wedding, you might be wondering how many of those guests will be children. It's a tricky question, and one that's ultimately up to you and your partner to decide. Here are some things to consider when it comes to children at your wedding:

The Venue

The venue you choose for your wedding can play a big factor in whether or not to invite children. Some venues may have restrictions on the number of guests, including children, due to safety reasons or noise restrictions. Additionally, the type of venue you choose can also influence your decision. For example, an intimate ceremony at city hall may not be suitable for children, while a morning or afternoon wedding in a casual setting might be more appropriate for youngsters to attend.

Your Guest List

When deciding whether to invite children, consider the ages of the children in your family and friend groups. If you have a lot of young children or toddlers in your life, it might be more challenging to accommodate them at your wedding. On the other hand, if your family and friends have older children who can entertain themselves, it might be easier to include them. It's also important to set clear guidelines for your guest list. For example, you might decide to only invite nieces and nephews, or children of immediate family members. Communicating these guidelines clearly on your wedding invitations and website can help manage expectations.

Budget Constraints

Entertainment and Activities

If you do decide to invite children, it's important to consider how you'll keep them entertained during the wedding. Bored children can lead to disruptions during the ceremony and speeches. Providing activity packs, setting up a kids' room with toys and films, or even hiring entertainment like a magic show or bouncy castle can help keep the young guests occupied. For the evening party, consider the ages of the children and whether they'll be able to join in on the dance floor or if they'll need a separate space to wind down.

Parent Accommodations

Finally, don't forget to consider the needs of the parents attending your wedding. Soft drinks and kid-friendly snacks can be a lifesaver for hungry children. You might also want to suggest or provide childcare options for parents who want to stay at the party after their little ones have gone to bed. Ultimately, it's the parents' responsibility to keep their children happy, but providing some accommodations can go a long way toward making your wedding a pleasant experience for families.

RSVP numbers

When inviting 150 people to your wedding, it's important to consider that not everyone will be able to attend. On average, you can expect around 75%-80% of invited guests to RSVP "Yes", with this number potentially dipping lower for destination weddings. However, it is crucial to always plan for 100% attendance, especially when considering your budget and venue capacity.

To improve your RSVP response rate, consider the following strategies:

• Create a wedding website where guests can respond quickly and easily.
• Include a small number on the back of your RSVP cards that corresponds to your own numbered guest list. This helps to identify responses that are returned without guest names.
• Provide a pre-addressed and pre-stamped envelope with each RSVP card to make it convenient for guests to send back their responses.
• Set an RSVP deadline of around four weeks before the wedding date, and consider sending a gentle reminder to guests a week or so before the deadline.

Additionally, be mindful of the following factors when managing your RSVP numbers:

• Plus-ones: Decide whether to allow plus-ones for all unmarried guests or only those in established relationships.
• Children: Determine whether to invite children and, if so, set a clear rule such as "immediate family only" or "kids in the wedding party only".
• Coworkers: There is no obligation to invite coworkers, but consider the size of your team and your relationship with them outside of work.
• Budget: The number of guests you can invite will depend on your budget, as the cost per guest can range from $200 to $500 or more.

Remember, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your budget and venue capacity to determine how many people you can invite.

Frequently asked questions