3. Be really careful about plus-ones
Weddings are expensive. Everybody understands that you have to draw the line somewhere when it comes to the guest list. But there has to be a rule that works. These days, "no ring, no bring" often isn't it! What if you have friends who've been together for years but never married? Or perhaps you know one person's new girlfriend way better than someone else's husband of five years who never comes to parties?
If you can't do the easiest thing and give everyone in a relationship a plus-one, sit down with your partner and work out where you draw the line. Maybe you say no to kids, maybe you cut the partners who you have never met, or maybe you chose a specific group who you know will understand (work colleagues, old school friends) and invite them as a gang, no partners allowed. Whichever you choose, someone will inevitably be disappointed or surprised by your decision, but hopefully they will understand it's about logistics (or finances) and not your opinion of their partner!
4. Tackle the issue of children with great care
Regardless of what anyone says, it's your choice whether you decide to invite children or not. But your circumstances will often dictate how "right" it feels to say no. If you have a lot of kids in your family or your close circle of friends, you'll probably want them there! If most of your friends are child-free, an adults-only wedding may be perfect for everyone, including the few parents you do have on your list who will hopefully quite like the idea of a night off and a party! Just remember that finding child care is expensive (especially for an out-of-town wedding) and parents usually like to include their children in things!