At 1860 Schulhaus, we understand that you’re designing a day filled with love and the people who matter most. Our historic venue is perfect for weddings of 75 guests or fewer, creating an intimate, warm atmosphere where every guest feels included and cherished. Here are some tips to help you plan your guest list for a small wedding that reflects your vision.
Start with Immediate Family and Close Relatives
Parents, siblings, and grandparents are the people who have been there through each milestone, and their presence on your wedding day is likely essential. From there, consider extended family members like aunts, uncles, and cousins, if they’ve played an important role in your life. Remember, this list is yours to shape. You don’t have to invite everyone, especially if they aren’t a positive part of your life. Surround yourself with those who lift you up and make this day joyful.
Add Your Closest Friends
Small weddings allow for more personal connections, so include friends who’ve stood by your side through thick and thin. These might be the people who watched your love story unfold, introduced you to your partner, or simply shared in your happiest moments. Let your guest list reflect the bonds you want to celebrate on your special day.
Balance Your Partner’s List with Your Own
Creating a combined list is where things get real. Have you each listed those “must-have” guests separately? Once you’ve both created your lists, combine them and adjust as needed. Intimate weddings are a chance to honor relationships that genuinely mean something to both of you, focusing on shared connections and special people who have contributed to your lives together.
Be Mindful of Space and Budget
With 1860 Schulhaus’s cozy indoor space and beautiful outdoor areas, you can host a beautiful ceremony and reception without feeling crowded. Our venue is designed for intimate gatherings, so think carefully about whom you genuinely want by your side. Each guest brings additional costs for catering and rentals, so stay mindful of your budget. Consider who will make the day feel complete and focus on that group.
Divide into Must-Haves, Maybes, and Optional Guests
Still finding it hard to narrow down the list? Create categories: “must-have,” “maybe,” and “optional.” This way, if you need to trim down, you can do so without feeling overwhelmed. Having a limited guest list doesn’t mean you’re leaving people out; it simply means you’re crafting a day where every attendee is there to share in your joy.
Communicate Clearly on Invitations
For smaller gatherings, it’s even more important to communicate who’s invited. If you’re not inviting children or limiting plus-ones, make this clear on the invitation to avoid misunderstandings. The goal is for everyone to feel honored to be part of your special day, so clarity and warmth in the invitation wording will go a long way.
Intimate Weddings, Big Moments
Your wedding day at the 1860 Schulhaus is a day to celebrate love, unity, and cherished memories. Building a guest list for a small wedding may feel challenging, but it’s an opportunity to create a day that’s genuinely yours, surrounded by the people who mean the most. If you’re feeling unsure, we’re here to help guide you through this process. We’d love to show you around our space and discuss how we can make your intimate wedding vision come to life. Contact us to schedule a tour and see what 1860 Schulhaus can offer!
