Before I get bashed like I've seen on other similar posts, hear me out here ;-)
I'm 32 and feel so fortunate to have made important friendships throughout my 32 years, but I'm not really trying to have 12 ladies in matching dresses stand beside me on the big day, especially as we are doing a more informal, intimate-vibe park wedding (okay huge bash with like 350+ ppl, still a boho urban park wedding vibe)
I'd like to host a special brunch/lunch on the day of the wedding with my dear friends, and have dedicated professional photo time before the wedding, and they'd also be invited to the rehearsal dinner. They can wear what they want, won't have to spend hours DIYing or show up for the wedding so sleep deprived from all the bridesmaid duties and expectations like I've experienced in the past LOL, and won't have to spend 12+ hours away from their young children on the day of the wedding. I don't expect or care about a shower, and I already know a lowkey bachelorette weekend will happen anyway and I'm positive I wouldn't be a bridezilla expecting people to spend a month of income on a weekend.
Is this realistic? What do I call this, and how do I let my friends know they are special to me and I would be honored to have their presence on the big day, maybe like an invitation of sorts...I don't know. I honestly think they'd like to feel like special friends/guests on the big day and I'm not asking them to spend a ton of money or time, so isn't it a win-win? Or is it rude and tacky?
Thanks for your honesty!