Wedding Invitation Numbers: How Many to Send and What to Expect

When you hear wedding invitation numbers, the total count of invitations sent out before a wedding. Also known as guest list size, it’s not just a number—it’s the foundation of your budget, venue choice, and even how much cake you need. Most couples start with a list of 100 to 150 names, but the real number that matters? The ones who actually show up.

It’s common to send out more invitations than you expect to attend. Why? Because life happens. Someone gets sick. A job trip comes up. A cousin moves overseas. Studies show that 15% to 25% of guests typically don’t show up, even with RSVPs. That’s why if you want 80 people at your wedding, you might send out 100 to 110 invitations. It’s not about being wasteful—it’s about being realistic. And if you’re planning a wedding in Australia or the UK, where travel costs and time off work play a big role, that no-show rate can be even higher.

Then there’s the RSVP, the system couples use to track who’s coming and who’s not. Also known as wedding response cards, this isn’t just a formality—it’s your most important planning tool. Without clear RSVPs, you can’t book catering, arrange seating, or even know how many napkins to buy. And yes, it’s okay to follow up. A gentle text or call to someone who hasn’t responded after three weeks? Totally normal. Most guests appreciate the reminder.

Don’t forget the wedding guest list, the living document that changes as you talk to family, friends, and even your partner. Also known as invited attendees, this list is where politics, emotions, and budgets collide. Maybe your aunt insists on bringing her new boyfriend. Maybe your best friend from college moved to New Zealand and says they’ll try to come. You don’t have to say yes to everyone. Your wedding is yours. You get to decide who’s in the circle.

And here’s the thing: sending invitations isn’t the end of the story. It’s the start. Once those cards go out, you’re entering a phase of quiet tracking, gentle nudges, and last-minute changes. You’ll be checking your spreadsheet every few days. You’ll wonder if that one person really meant to say yes. You’ll second-guess your numbers. And that’s okay. Every couple does. What matters is that you’re preparing—not just for the day, but for the reality of it.

Below, you’ll find real advice from couples who’ve been through it. How to handle unresponsive guests. When to cut the guest list. What to do when your budget shrinks after the RSVPs come in. And how to make sure your numbers don’t turn into stress.