DISCLAIMER: I am posting this because I want positive and thoughtful ideas and suggestions. I have had HORRIBLE experiences with people because very abrasive on these boards, so please, constructive ideas only
We are having an intimate family only ceremony and then a big party of a reception, where everyone is invited. I am aware that it is normal etiquette to invite out of town guests to both the ceremony and the reception. Some of the people that we are inviting from out of town (i.e. our parents' friends) are clearly not family, and if I had my choice, I would not choose for them to be at the wedding. I especially feel bad because there are lesser immediate family that are not going to be invited to the wedding. For example, I am close with one of my cousin's and his family, but if I invite him, I have to invite his brother and his family (wife and 4 kids) and his sister and her 4 kids. It just starts getting crazy. Would it really be the end of the world if I don't invite them to the ceremony? If I must, how do I get over the feelings of guilt?