EP. 33 Plus-Ones, No-Kids, and Mother-in-Laws: A Wedding Survival Guide

The drama of the wedding guest list often rivals any reality TV show - who makes the cut, who gets a plus-one, and should kids be invited? Shawna Jackson of Savvy Southern Events joins us to unveil the secrets to navigating this emotional minefield with grace and strategy.

Drawing from her extensive experience in the wedding industry since age 18, Shawna shares her journey from bartender to sought-after wedding planner, revealing why the guest list might be the most challenging aspect of wedding planning. Her practical approach begins with the often-overlooked first step: examining your budget. With catering costs starting around $50 per person, every addition significantly impacts your bottom line.

Shawna introduces her brilliant A-list/B-list strategy that allows couples to prioritize their must-have guests while maintaining flexibility as RSVPs arrive. We tackle the controversial question of children at weddings (spoiler: it's perfectly acceptable to have an adults-only celebration) and explore the emerging trend of professional wedding babysitters for destination events.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Shawna reveals her personal wedding story - her own daughter was sent home after the ceremony so "mommy could party," and her husband's friend brought a temporary girlfriend who now appears forever in their wedding video. These candid anecdotes reinforce her practical advice about plus-ones and setting boundaries with well-meaning but intrusive in-laws and parents.

From leveraging technology for RSVPs to diplomatic ways of declining unwanted additions to your guest list, this episode provides actionable strategies to ensure your wedding celebrates your relationship surrounded by people who truly matter to you both.

Subscribe to the Tipsy Guest Podcast for more insider tips from wedding industry experts who understand the real challenges couples face beyond the picture-perfect Instagram posts.

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