Disclaimer: I am FAR, FAR away from setting my wedding party, as my wedding is still, itself, far away.
I've read through the boards and I take your advice about waiting to heart. I'm not asking anyone anything right now. I'm just thinking about it.
My question is preemptive, but... I know that there are certain family members I won't be asking to be in my wedding party, and I know these family members are going to be upset about it. I'm not going to change my mind, however. (I'm sure I'm not the only person here who has unreconcilable family issues, and who isn't willing to let a domineering family member overtake their day; it's probably the oldest story in the book.) I'm preemptively scared, though, of the fallout that will descend when that decision comes to light, months from now. Any pearls of wisdom? Bits of advice? Encouragement? Is there a graceful way to get across that, whatever someone's expectations are, it's my wedding and I get to choose who I want standing with me, and (hopefully) enjoying the day with us?
I don't want to burn any bridges, but surely I don't have to put someone in my wedding party just to keep them from getting angry with me, do I? Is there a smart way to handle these things? I just want to know what to do when the time comes...