My FMIL is a strange one. We are paying for the entire wedding ourselves but they've graciously offered to pay for the rehearsal dinner. She has been wanting to plan the rehearsal dinner and book hotel rooms 18 months in advance. lol There is nothing going on in our area to warrant that.
Every time we saw them, she's said, "We need to get together soon to talk about the rehearsal dinner!" They aren't from our area so I picked up some brochures at a bridal expo to give her some ideas--in EVERY price range. Actually, several lower, a few mid, and a couple that were a bit fancier but not ridiculous. I didn't want them to think we were expecting something fancy.
She was taken aback that I did that. I have no idea why. I was cautious how I approached her with it--not expecting a certain price range or that I'd be making any decisions. So I've backed off since then. They are paying so they can make all the decisions. I seriously was cool with whatever.
And in the meantime, she booked our reception caterer for the rehearsal dinner. LOL They specialize in one very distinct type of meal. The only time we spoke up was when I asked if we could make sure no choices overlapped between the two dinners. That was squared away.
Then I found out today that she plans to have it in our reception hall! I was so caught off guard. And it's BBQ ribs. Ugh. I have a few kids on my side of the family attending whose parents do NOT watch them. I'm picturing disaster. lol Plus, the room will already be set up for the reception. (The cater sets up in there Wednesday night. I have to set up all the decor Thursday night/Friday daytime.) Since WE are paying for that, I did speak up. I said no to the reception hall. The caterer suggested the bar area which will already be set up with multiple cocktail tables, gift table, escort card table, etc. But it's the only available alternative. So I'll be setting up, dragging those tables out of the room. (I can't move them to the sides--not enough room) and then back out on Saturday. Blech.
And? Our lease with the reception hall says we have to be out (caterer and all) by 8pm Friday. The dinner was supposed to start at 7pm at the earliest due to different time zone guests (my immediate family). Now they will have to leave work early on Friday. I really wanted to avoid inconveniencing anyone.
Is this whole thing comical or what? lol