Let me start my saying I had a BEAUTIFUL shower. My sister worked her butt off to make sure everything came together and was perfect and everything was so lovely. I had a great time and got some nice things.
BUT...
Hardly anyone came

We invited 40 and only 14 came. I was really disappointed. Especially because some people RSVPed and didn't even show up (after texting my sister THAT AFTERNOON to say they were running late but would be there). I was so bummed out.
To make matters worse...my FMIL (who I have a very strained relationship with) showed up an hour and a half late. She didn't let anyone know she would be so late. We tried to hold off eating and game playing until she got there but couldn't wait any longer. I've tried so hard to work on my relationship with this woman but this really upset me. One of my FI sisters didn't even show up, even after she had RSVPed yes. My FI family hasn't offered to help pay for anything (which is okay) but they don't ever even ask about it...never want to know how things are going, etc. I feel like since his mom hasn't offered us a dime nor acted interested, the least she could do was show up on time. SIGH
AND my sister asked all the bridesmaids to give her $40 to cover the cost of the shower which she paid for completely. Only my MOH paid her. I feel so bad.
BUT...it WAS a lovely shower. Here are some pics!

my sister had to recruit some help for the banner

I got to eat my own face

centerpieces. each table had different shaped vases - it was super cute

the favors - these were handmade. she filled them with candy and used double sided tape

my amazing mom did all the food

so, all and all, even though I was very disappointed with FI's family and how few people showed up, I had a nice shower. all the important people were there!