OK. I know Im going to get backlash from this but please be kind.
I have about 170 relatives that live about 4 hours away. Knowing my family I am very certain that less than half will attend. But knowing what I know from the boards on here I know I have to expect 100% attendence. With that being said, I refuse to not invite local frineds on the very unlikely chance that more out of towers will attend. Sooo... the reception is not an issue, if everyone comes there is room and I will just suck it up and pay for them. The issue is the ceremony. The room holds 200 max. On the off chance that everyone shows up and they cant all fit in the room I am thinking of 2 options. I know they both suck but like I said its very unlikely it will come to this, I just need a contingency plan just in case....
Can I have people sit outside the room (its covered in windows so they'd still be able to see) OR say something along the lines that we ask children not attend the ceremony but are welcome at the reception and that a room/babysitter will be provided on site. Any other ideas?