I realize this is not a pre-wedding party, but wasn't sure where else to post.
FMIL is hosting (read: paying) brunch at the hotel, the morning after the wedding. We have 2 options -
1- a formal, reserved room, at a $5 higher cost pp and we need a full headcount a few days before.
2 - provide coupons to guests as they check in, which will pay for their brunch in the dining room the morning after the wedding.
Personally, I like #2 because if people flake, are hungover, sleep in, whatever, we are not stuck paying for them. I can see a lot of my family flaking out, honestly. They are big drinkers and its going to be a rockin party. Also, we have enough to do, wrangling people for a headcount (FMIL won't do it, it will be on us) just adds to my list, and I really don't want to worry about it.
FI doesn't like that it won't be in a private room. He thinks is strange to not all sit together. I've been to weddings that did both styles, and thought they were fine. In fact, the B&G mingled more when they had to float around and say hi to everyone, rather than just sit in one spot.
Thoughts?