Additional Coverage:
- I’m skipping my cousin’s kid-free, out-of-town wedding. There’s no rehearsal dinner, so I wouldn’t even get to connect with her. (businessinsider.com)
Torn Over a Wedding Invitation
Attending family weddings is usually a no-brainer, but my cousin’s upcoming Chicago nuptials presented a series of unexpected hurdles. Initially, the biggest concern was cost.
A family trip to Chicago adds up quickly! I was relieved when a chance encounter with a stranger reaffirmed the importance of family time, inspiring me to explore cost-saving measures like travel points and staying with relatives.
My plan hit its first snag when I discovered my aunt and uncle’s house was already full. Okay, a minor setback.
Then came the invitation—addressed only to my husband and me. While I appreciate child-free weddings, it complicated things for out-of-town guests.
Hiring a babysitter in Chicago felt uneasy, bringing our kids would increase costs, and leaving them behind meant sacrificing precious family vacation time.
The final blow? No rehearsal dinner.
For me, rehearsal dinners are the heart of wedding celebrations. They offer a relaxed setting to connect with the couple and other family members, away from the whirlwind of the main event.
I cherish the memory of a long conversation with my great-uncle at my sister’s rehearsal dinner, one of the last times I saw him.
Without a rehearsal dinner, the opportunity for meaningful connection felt lost. Ultimately, I decided to decline the invitation.
I sent a gift and look forward to celebrating from afar. While I’m sad to miss the wedding, I know we’ll find other opportunities to spend quality time together.