How many wedding guests will actually come?

You cannot know exactly who will come until replies arrive. This tool gives you a realistic estimate by group so you can plan with confidence. Break your list into close family, friends, colleagues and guests travelling a long way. Each group behaves differently. Close family usually come. Colleagues often decline if they do not know you well. Long-distance guests need more time and money to travel.

Enter how many you invite in each group and how likely they are to attend. The tool adds the results for you. Use this as a guide, not a promise. Some people reply late, some bring a plus one and some change their minds. Update your estimate as RSVPs arrive.

Make your first estimate when you have a rough idea of your guest list and a venue in mind. Venues and caterers need a headcount, so you need a number before you book. You can refine it later as replies come in.

• Check your venue's final headcount deadline early.
• Ask your caterer how far ahead they need the number.
• Revisit your estimate two to three months before the wedding.
• Update it weekly once invitations are sent.

Be honest about each group's likelihood. Overestimating means paying for empty seats. Underestimating means running short on food and drinks.

• Close family and children usually attend.
• Friends are likely if you are close.
• Colleagues may decline if they do not know you well.
• Guests travelling a long way are more likely to say no.
• Remember that children, partners and plus ones count toward your total.
• Keep a separate note for late replies and changes.