Weddings are expensive, and sometimes having too many guests can make them overwhelming. For a couple starting their life together with all the uncertainties ahead, it's not always practical to invite everyone you know, especially if you're trying to keep costs down and avoid unnecessary stress. If you're aiming for a smaller wedding, here are some groups of people you might want to consider leaving off your guest list:

1. People You Haven’t Heard From in Over a Year
   If you haven’t spoken to someone in the last 12 months, it’s a sign the relationship isn’t as strong as it once was. Ask yourself: do you really need to reconnect just for this event? If there's no active connection, it's okay not to invite them.

2. People Who Didn’t Invite You to Their Milestones
   Relationships are often a two-way street. If someone hasn’t thought to include you in any of their major life events, whether it's a wedding, birthday, or other celebrations, it's okay to leave them off your list without feeling petty. It’s a natural way of focusing on those who prioritize you in their lives.

3. Acquaintances You Wouldn’t Miss at Your Wedding
   Consider whether you’d be truly disappointed if a certain guest couldn’t make it. If the thought of them not attending doesn’t bother you, that’s a sign they may not need to be on the list. You want people who would make your day more meaningful and enjoyable.

4. Coworkers You’re Not Close With
   While it might be tempting to invite the people you see at work every day, if you don’t socialize with them outside the office, it’s completely fine to leave them out. A wedding should feel personal, and having coworkers you don’t share a deeper bond with can make it feel more like a corporate event than a celebration of love.

5. Distant Relatives You Barely Know
   Just because someone is related to you doesn’t mean they need an invitation. If you don’t have an active relationship with them, or if inviting them would lead to an extended guest list that you’re not comfortable with, it’s okay to politely skip sending them an invite.

6. Plus Ones for Casual Friends
   Unless your guest has a significant other or long-term partner, you’re not obligated to offer a plus-one to every single person. You can keep the guest list tighter by focusing on close friends and family members and avoiding the additional +1s.

7. Friends You’ve Drifted Apart From
   If you’ve grown apart from certain friends over the years, it might not make sense to invite them just for the sake of the past. Focus on those who are part of your present and who you see being in your life moving forward.

By focusing on the people who matter most, you can create a more intimate, meaningful celebration that reflects the love and support around you. It's your day, and the guest list should feel right for you and your partner—not based on outdated obligations or societal expectations.