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Planning aweddingcan often feel like trying to piece together a complicated puzzle.
And not just by a bit, but by a whole country, the bride shared in her post.
The couple is still allowing Ned to bring his plus-one (Karen) to the destination wedding.
But thankfully, Bin-chook-4966 is feeling thrilled about the big day.
Possibly more than I was before, she noted in her update.
We also asked the author what her relationship with Karen was like prior to all of this.
I had only met her a handful of timesotherthan when she stayed with us, she shared.
We were always friendly and got along well.
The uninviting happened six years after she stayed with us, the OP continued.
And what did the bride think of the responses to her post?
[They] were interesting.
Ive learnt that if I ever make another post that Ill have to be more specific about that.
Who wouldnt love the idea of a free venue, right?
Grandmas backyard, your parents beach house, or yourbest friends barnthey all sound dreamy and budget-friendly.
But, as with most free things, theres a catch (or five), Jhona added.
When it comes to the pros of choosing a venue like this, she says, Cha-ching!
You save on venue costs.
Its incredibly sentimental, she continued.
Imagine saying your vows under the same tree you used to climb as a kid.
How sweet is that?
For example, take a peek atthis high school sweethearts weddingheld at their old schoolhouse.
Talk about full-circle romance!
The expert says youre also not bound by strict venue rules.
Want to bring your dog?
Want to party until 2 a.m.?
On the other hand, there are some cons that come along with a venue like this.
Its a logistical beast.
If the place isnt wedding-ready, youll need to rent everything from toilets to twinkle lights, Jhona noted.
Plus, youll be on clean-up duty.
Someones got to haul those trash bags at midnight, and spoiler alert: its probably you.
And of course, there might be some family drama.
Aunt Mary might suddenly have opinions about your centerpieces since its her garden, Jhona noted.
Using a family or friends venue can be magical, but its not without its hiccups.
Proceed with cautionand maybe a solid plan B.
Check outBethany and Ardiesintimate wedding at home, for example.
Its your wedding, your rules, she told Bored Panda.
Just because youre not footing the venue bill doesnt mean youve handed over the reins to the guest list.
Think of it like borrowing someones Netflix accountyou get to watch what you want, not what they suggest.
The trick is to stand your ground without causing WWIII.
Be polite but firm: We love you, but this is our decision.
If they push back?
Play the this is our special day cardits undefeated.
Finally, we asked Jhona what advice she would give the couple in this situation.
Sure, it might cost more, but can you really put a price on your sanity?
Politely but firmly let the SIL know that the guest list is off-limits.
If she cant handle it, well, thats a her problem, not yours.
So whether you set boundaries or book a new spot entirely, do what feels right for you.
And remember, theguest listwont matter when youre eating cake and dancing the night away.
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