How to Build the Perfect Wedding Guest List Without the Stress

Planning a wedding in San Antonio, Austin, or the Hill Country is exciting, but the guest list can quickly become the most stressful part. In our latest episode of the Tipsy Guest with Shawna Jackson of Savvy Southern Events, we break down how to handle your wedding guest list with confidence and strategy.

---

Start With Your Budget and Venue

Your guest list begins with two things: budget and venue capacity. Catering often starts at $50 per person and can climb much higher. Every guest adds to your total cost.

Before writing down names, sit with your budget and confirm how many people your venue can hold. This foundation keeps your planning realistic and stress-free.

---

Create an A-List and B-List

Shawna suggests creating an A-list and B-list to make the process easier. The A-list includes your must-have guests such as close family, the wedding party, and your closest friends.

The B-list becomes your backup plan. This includes extended family, casual acquaintances, and network connections. If someone from the A-list declines, you can invite someone from the B-list without going over budget or capacity.

---

Kids or No Kids?

Few topics cause more drama than children at weddings. Shawna is clear: if you don’t want kids at your wedding, it’s perfectly fine not to invite them. Your wedding is not a family reunion, and you should not feel guilty for setting boundaries.

Some couples in Austin and Hill Country wedding venues are now hiring babysitters or setting up kid-friendly rooms. This option works especially well for destination weddings where families are traveling with children.

---

Use Technology to Manage RSVPs

Technology has made RSVPs easier than ever. Online systems like The Knot or Zola let you track responses and collect guest addresses. Shawna also recommends ineedyouraddress.com, a tool that creates spreadsheets and allows you to print addresses directly on envelopes.

These platforms streamline the process and help prevent uninvited plus-ones from sneaking in.

---

Who Gets a Plus-One?

Plus-ones are often a tricky subject. Shawna’s rule is simple: married couples and those in committed relationships get plus-ones. Casual dates do not.

She shared a funny story about her husband’s friend who brought a short-term girlfriend to their wedding. That person now appears in their wedding video forever—a reminder to be selective with plus-ones.

---

Handling Awkward Requests

Sometimes, people may try to invite themselves. Parents might also push to include their friends. Shawna suggests polite but firm responses.

Blame your venue’s limited capacity. Cite your budget as the reason. Or even redirect the decision to your in-laws. These small but effective responses protect your relationships while helping you stay firm on your guest list.

---

Your Guest List Should Reflect You

At the end of the day, your guest list should reflect your priorities, not social pressure. Start with your budget. Create an A-list and B-list. Decide early about children and plus-ones.

When you look back at your photos and videos from your San Antonio, Austin, or Hill Country wedding, you’ll be surrounded by the people who truly matter. That’s what makes your celebration unforgettable.

---

EPISODE SPONSOR: MBP PHOTO BOOTH

MBP Photo Booth, San Antonio and Austin’s leading Photo Booth company since 2015, is proud to sponsor this episode! Whether you’re looking for a fun, interactive experience or a customized photo activation, MBP has you covered. Let’s make your wedding unforgettable!