What is the timing of the lawful marriage feast (walima), what is the specified number of invitees for it, and is the feast (walima) offered before the marriage contract in some countries considered sufficient, thereby waiving the requirement for the lawful walima?

The best time for the wedding feast (walima) is after the consummation of the marriage, following the example of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, as narrated in the hadith of Anas concerning the marriage of Zaynab, may Allah be pleased with her. However, there is no harm in holding it before consummation, or at the time of the marriage contract, or after it. The matter is broad in this regard, and its time extends from the moment of the contract until the end of the wedding days. This depends on common custom and the practice of the people of the land. There is no specific limit to the number of invitees; rather, it depends on the person's capacity and ability. The greater the number, the better, due to the public announcement and the seeking of prayers it entails.