Hosting 2 days before the wedding

Just say no. It's not your parents decision. If they are so worried about it tell them to make accommodations for these relatives.

Since most guests are traveling in, you can invite extended family to the brewery Thursday, but I would not bother with the stress of preparing your home for guests days before your wedding. If your mother wants it so bad, she can clean your house before and after and arrange the catering and support.


Another popular option is to have a casual welcome party for all out of towners on Friday, instead of rehearsal dinner with WP & immediate families. While it's nice to spend more time with your loved ones it is Your budget and brain space, not Mom's.

Thinking about my own wedding, there's never enough time to spend with your loved ones during the wedding itself. The wedding goes by so fast because you're on a high of happiness with your beloved and then it's done. So if your family isn't coming two (2) days early, how about throwing an informal continental brunch the day after at the house with easy breakfast platters, cold cuts, and juice. Everyone will have to get over a slightly messy house the day after your wedding. Keep in mind, it is best for security's sake to lock up all unopened cards, gifts, and private rooms because people like to wander...