Wedding guest list: how to make one, with a template to start from
Updated 6 October 2026 · Written by Lysela
Write the guest list by household rather than by person: one line for each family or couple who gets an invitation, with the names of everyone included. Start with the people you cannot imagine the day without and work outwards. Decide early how many you have room and money for, because the guest list drives both the venue and the budget.
Try it yourself, no account neededWho should you invite?
Most couples build the list in circles. Family and closest friends first, then relatives and friends you see often, and colleagues and acquaintances last. Count after each circle and check you still have room.
Agree on a few rules together before you start, so saying no gets easier. For example, whether children are invited, whether everyone may bring a partner, and whether you invite colleagues.
A guest list template
One line per household is enough. Set up these columns in a spreadsheet so you can sort and count.
| Column | What goes in it |
|---|---|
| Household | One name for the whole line, such as The Linds or Anna and Per. |
| Who is included | The names of everyone invited, children too if they are. |
| Contact | A phone number or email for the save the date and the invitation. |
| Reply | Coming, not coming or no reply yet. |
| Allergies | Allergies and dietary needs, for the list to the kitchen. |
| Note | For example whether they may bring a partner or need a lift. |
Wording to send
Missing contact details for some guests, or need to explain why not everyone is invited? Replace what is in square brackets.
Hi [name], we are planning the wedding and would love to send you an invitation. Which number or email should we send it to?
We are sorry, but we only have room for the people named on the invitation. We hope you understand, and we look forward to seeing you on [date].
We have chosen to marry with just our closest family and friends. We hope to celebrate with you in another way later on.
From guest list to replies
Once the invitation is out, the guest list becomes a list of replies. Add replies and allergies as they come in, and remind those who have not replied a few days after the deadline. How to ask about allergies and the rest is in the RSVP guide, and when the replies are in you can start on the seating plan.
The guest list at Lysela
At Lysela, guests reply to the RSVP on your wedding website, and in every tier you see the replies, allergies and who is coming in one place, and can download the list for the kitchen. In Premium you also enter the guest list, or paste it in from Excel or Google Sheets, and each household gets its own link. The page greets them by name, and you see at once who you are still waiting for.
You pay once, SEK 795, SEK 1,795 or SEK 4,990 including VAT, and the site stays up for 12 to 18 months depending on the tier.
Common questions
How many guests does a wedding have?
In SBAB's survey of Swedish weddings from 2018 to 2023, the average was 50 guests. Almost a third had fewer than ten.
Do we have to invite plus-ones?
No. Set a rule, for example that only couples who live together are invited together, and write the names on the invitation so it is clear who is invited.
When should the guest list be done?
A first version before you book the venue, about a year ahead. The final one by the time the save the date goes out.
Should children be on the guest list?
Yes, if they are invited. Put their names on the household's line so they are counted when you order food.