Okay, this is really an etiquette question, but I'm a little leery of the E board.
My cousin spearheaded the idea of a dinner with family and close friends to celebrate her pregnancy, her sister's engagement, and my engagement. This part is all good, especially since we have a pretty big family and rarely get to see everyone in one place.
However, she sent me a draft of the invite. There are a few glaring etiquette issues, and for at least one of them, I'm not sure how to resolve it. I'd rather have some ideas to share with her when I give her my feedback, rather than just saying I think it's wrong as it is.
First (and biggest) issue: The line "Each family will purchase their own meals." Like I said, we have a big family, so I'm not opposed to the idea of everyone going Dutch in order to faciliate seeing each other, but I'm not sure of the best way to include the information, and how that might change other wording, since no one is really "hosting" in this case.
Second issue: "Gifts are welcome, but not required. Your presence is the best gift of all!" and my cousin's baby registry information at the bottom. I don't think gifts should be mentioned at all (and they're never required!). We certainly don't expect people to buy their own food and then provide gifts for 3 occassions as well. I'd just like the chance to see everyone. I know since my cousin is out of state, she probably won't have the chance to have an actual baby shower with family. I'd really prefer to just have people ask our parents for more information if they really do want to bring something. If we don't say anything on the invite, will people feel obligated to bring gifts?
Whew, this has gotten long! TIA to anyone who made it all the way through and for any suggestions.