This can be a controversial task and you will rarely get through it without offending someone. If it helps, keep in mind that most people understand weddings are expensive so inviting everyone you know is impossible.
Parents input
Before you ask your parents how many people they wish to invite, make it clear what the limits are, so there are no disappointments down the track.
If you fall victim to a guest list that looks more like your parents 50th birthday party, then you have 3 choices:
- Threaten to elope
- Add some more of your friends to counterbalance
- Go with 'more the merrier' attitude.
Keep your numbers down
If you need to save money, you will need to be ruthless and cut the number of guests you invite. Remember more guests will increase the price for food and beverages, invitations, decorations for extra tables, bomboniere, wait staff required etc.
It is for this reason that you need to put the guilt aside and spend the hours working the guest list out and make sure you really want each of your guests at the wedding.