Joy which isn't shared with a "new face" ("panim chadashot") lacks a certain excitement. It is therefore necessary to "freshen" the joy and happiness of the newlyweds during each of the sheva brachot celebrations by inviting someone who has not attended the wedding or any of the previous sheva brachot. In the absence of a panim chadashot, the sheva brachot blessings are not recited. The notable exceptions to this rule are Shabbat and major Jewish holidays, when the special day itself, and the joy it provides, serves as the panim chadashot.
It is necessary to "freshen" the joy and happiness of the newlywedsSephardic custom is to invite at least two panim chadashot to every sheva brachot.
Considering that presumably all the close friends of the bride and groom attended the wedding, more often than not the panim chadashot are friends of the hosts of the sheva brachot. It is not necessary for them to be present for the entire sheva brachot meal; it is fine to invite them for dessert and Grace after Meals.
Only an individual who can be counted as part of the (sheva brachot) minyan can qualify as a panim chadashot.
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