What’s Behind the Trend?

Weddings aren’t cheap. According to recent UK statistics, the average cost of a wedding is around £20,000–£25,000, with catering accounting for a hefty slice of that. No-shows mean couples are footing the bill for meals, favors, and other expenses that go unused.

Recently, couples have been taking a bold approach: invoicing absent guests for the cost of their seat. Whether via a politely worded email or an outright PayPal request, these invoices often break down the cost per head, citing reasons like wasted catering expenses.

This trend gained traction after viral social media stories and wedding forums began buzzing about real-life examples. Reactions, as you might imagine, have been...mixed.

The Case For Invoicing Guests

1. Financial Fairness:
   Weddings are investments. If someone confirms their attendance, couples often feel it’s only right they honor that commitment—or cover the costs.
2. Accountability:
   An RSVP isn’t just a polite gesture; it’s a promise. Sending an invoice might make people think twice before casually skipping an event.
3. Small Guest List Woes:
   For micro-weddings or intimate gatherings, even one no-show can feel significant.

For most of us, our wedding is such a special day that we hope to spend with the people we love the most. All the planning, time, effort and sleepless nights of sending out RSVP's and collecting all the responses - I think if we're honest, there is at least a little part in each of us that would LOVE to be able to send a paypal request to those who didn't bother to let us know they couldn't make it!

The Case Against Invoicing Guests

1. Social Awkwardness:
   Let’s face it: invoicing your aunt for £75 - £150 could make the next family Christmas a tad uncomfortable...
2. Unpredictable Circumstances:
   Emergencies do happen. From illnesses to unavoidable travel issues, not every absence is intentional and it's fair to leave a little room for such events.
3. Weddings Are About Love:
   At their core, weddings celebrate love and togetherness. Sending invoices might shift the focus away from what truly matters. Do you want the stress that might follow the request?

Our Take: Is It Worth It?

While we can understand the frustration of no-shows (and their impact on your budget), invoicing absent guests feels like it could cause more harm than good. ultimately, your wedding day is all about you as a couple and having the day of your dreams. If your guest genuinely couldn't be bothered to get in touch with you about their attendance, we say - Oh, well! They've perhaps showed their true colours here and responding with dignity rather than pettiness is absolutely our suggestion - Instead, consider these alternatives:

• Follow Up Personally: Sometimes, a heartfelt conversation can resolve any lingering issues.
• Cut Catering Costs: Build a buffer into your catering numbers or opt for flexible packages.
• Focus on the Positive: Remember the guests who did attend and cherish those memories. Don't let a no show rain on your parade!
• 
  

A Lighthearted Look at No-Shows

Let’s inject some humor into the situation. Imagine sending your absent friends a "missed moments" card:
"We missed you at our wedding and your risotto missed you too! Next time, let us know if you’re double-booked with Love Island reruns."

After all, weddings are about creating joy, not drama.

What Do You Think?

Would you ever invoice a no-show guest? Or do you think it’s best to let it go?