My bridal shower is being held in Illinois. The majority of the groom's family lives in New Jersey or Florida. My maid of honor needs the guest list soon.
Do I invite his aunts, cousins, etc even though I know they are not going to be able to make it? I say "yes" because it is the thought that counts. I do not expect a gift from them, but I want them to know they are in my thoughts. My fiancè doesn't think it's necessary (he's a man, and sometimes they just don't think like us ladies do!). Please advise--thanks!
I have several cousins who have lived out of state for some time and I know they are always bummed when they don't get invited to things. People don't invite them, of course, because they figure that they can't come and they don't want them to feel obligated to 1) try to get here or 2) send a gift (if it happens to be a gift giving occasion.)
In my opinion, you should think of all of the people you would invite to a function without considering their location ahead of time. If you would invite his aunts, etc. If they lived near-by, then I believe you should send invites regardless of where they live. I would want everyone to feel included. (And you could maybe have your MOH - or whoever is organizing the shower - include a little note that says "We know you probably won't be able to make it, but we just wanted you to know that we are thinking of you.")
For my shower my Mom told my MOH to send an invite to my favorite Aunt who lives 2000 miles away and has two small kids...just so she could see the invites because my MOH hand made them and Mom wanted my Aunt to see it. Well, she flew in for my shower and no one told me she was coming...what a great surprise! I say go for it , you never know what may happen!
