Wedding Guest Calculator
How It Works
One of the trickiest parts of wedding planning is estimating how many people will actually attend. On average, 15-20% of invited guests will decline. However, this varies significantly based on how close the guests are to the couple and how far they need to travel.
Local guests (within a 1-hour drive) have much higher attendance rates — typically 80-95% for close friends and family. For out-of-town guests, expect 45-70% attendance depending on the relationship. Destination weddings see even lower acceptance rates, often 50-60% overall.
This calculator helps you plan venue size, catering quantities, and seating. Send RSVPs early (8-10 weeks before) and set a firm deadline 3-4 weeks out so you can finalize numbers with vendors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of wedding guests typically attend?
On average, 75-85% of invited guests attend a wedding. Local guests accept at higher rates (85-95%) than those who must travel (45-70%). The closeness of your relationship with guests is the biggest factor.
How many people should I invite to get 100 guests?
If you want 100 guests, invite 120-130 people. If many guests are distant or casual acquaintances, invite 135-150 to account for higher decline rates.
When should I send wedding invitations?
Send invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding (8-10 weeks for destination weddings). Set the RSVP deadline 3-4 weeks before so you have time to finalize counts with your venue and caterer.
Should I plan for the invited count or expected attendance?
Plan your venue, seating, and catering based on expected attendance, not total invitations. However, make sure your venue can accommodate an extra 5-10% above expected attendance as a buffer.