Wedding Meddling

Dear Alisa and Gina,

I’m getting married soon, for the second time, and having a small wedding. Recently, my parents ran into old friends of the family who they haven’t seen in years, and invited them to my wedding. They’re very excited about coming - but frankly I’m annoyed at my parents. I have friends who aren’t even coming because we’re trying to keep the guest list short. I haven’t sent out the invitations yet - but they know the date. Now what do I do? ~ Mad

You can do lots of things. Tell off your parents and make them un-invite the friends.  Tell your parents they can't come because the new people took their places. Be spontaneous - and enjoy these old family friends at your wedding. Or elope.~ Gina

Here comes your chance for a truly brave conversation. I think you need to have a very open discussion with your parents. I’m not sure what the final outcome will be and you don’t need to know that either. What you do need to know is what’s most important to you.  Is it that you didn’t invite some of your friends and your parents have invited theirs? Is it that you feel your needs haven’t been considered? Is it something else? With that as the point of the conversation, you can move into uncharted territory. And you need to do this right away. There is will be no better time.  ~ Alisa