My son is marrying a wonderful girl. I am divorced, am on a very limited budget, and cannot afford to contribute much to the wedding. I already gave my son my engagement diamond, which he re-set for his fiance's engagement ring. His future in-laws are aware of my financial situation, yet even after I explained my situation, I was informed that I am expected to make a rehearsal dinner, a bridal shower and a brunch the day after the wedding. I was then told that, given my lack of financial participation, I am only allowed to invite 20-30 guests, to a wedding with 250 people invited in total. Basically, I was told that their guest list was based on the percentage of contribution to the wedding costs. My ex can afford to contribute much more and thus, he is inviting about 50-60 people. I had already offered to pay for the officiant and hair/make-up for the bridal party. I can't afford to go into debt over this wedding. I know my son understands and is trying to support me, but feels a great deal of stress surrounding this situation, does not want to be in conflict with his new in-laws. There will also be another reception in the in-laws' country of origin. I was told that, if I come, I "would basically be on my own" for much of the time. I do not wish to cause any drama, but also feel a lack of understanding, empathy about my situation. Any ideas on how to best handle this in a different manner than I have being doing?