My 54 year old sister is getting married in early September. She is not having any bridesmaids or groomsmen, so I am throwing her shower along with one of her best friends. We are planning on an afternoon tea at a local hotel. We are inviting approximately 25 people. My sister does not want anyone to get her gifts for the shower. She has everything she could possibly need and only wants the company of her friends. My question is would it be appropriate to ask the guests to pay for their tea since they will not be purchasing gifts for the shower? The cost of the tea is doable (approx. $300-$400 for each of us), but the bride does not want me or her friend spending that much.