Kids @ Reception

Jess, I have 2 suggestions:

first - get yourself out of the middle. If this is your finance's mom then let him deal with her. Trust me, its easier.

second - how many 14-17 year olds are we talking about? It may be easier for the 2 of you invite them & pay for them yourselves if its that important to you.

Jess - Honestly? I don't think its fair for your finance to back off from this. It is HIS wedding and it IS his mother. Someone (one of you) has to deal with it - and he really should be involved.

That being said...I wouldn't worry about offending her. At the end of the day, it is your wedding and you are as just as much of a host as his mom is..and therefore any hurt feelings will be sent your way. It is his family but they will be your family soon too.... : )

You can very politely explain to her that you would like the 3 teens to attend and if financial reasons are the only barrier from inviting them, that you 2 will pick up the tab. Who knows, maybe she doesn't want them there for other reasons..

Its good to be concerned about the reponses w/kids.

I had that problem - invited just the parents and they responded for themselves and their 3 year old. Since it was the only one, I decided to let it slide. Still, I hate paying $50 for a dinner for a 3 year old.

I think Adult reception on the invite is OK - but would still invite the teens.