Rude

I am sorry this happened. It can definitely be frustrating, but let me go ahead and prepare you that there will more than likely be "no shows" on the actual day. We had approx 34 no shows from people that RSVP'd yes! Very annoying, but it happens. In regards to your FMIL, I don't think she should have to pay. Y'all as the couple, and the one's paying for the wedding, eat the cost of everything...that is just how it goes. I wouldn't expect my mom to pay for any of the people she asked to be invited, that didn't show up. But, that is just me. Try not to stress it...your wedding is almost here, so exciting! Concentrate on the good, and try not to let the little things get to you, or you will drive yourself crazy.

Since you'd have to pay for her regardless to meet your minimum, there's not really much sense is wasting energy being angry about this. However, I think you have a couple options to consider. First, is there a guest who you did not originally extend a plus-one to, who likely has someone they'd like to bring (and won't be offended by it being a last minute option)? If so, I'd call and let them know about the situation and invite them to bring a guest if they'd like. Second, and depending your cost per guest, if #1 won't work, I'd call your caterer/venue and let them know you'll have one less guest, and ask if the cost related to that person can be moved from a single guest's meal to an upgrade on something else. (For example, our pp charge was about $150, without tax, service chg, gratuity. I'd see if that $150 could be used for additional table cloth upgrades for the cake table or something else [the upgraded table cloth for the Sweetheart table was $80; I wouldn't choose to spend that for other "special" tables, but if I had a credit anyway it might be an option]. Usually, a minimum guarantee is for a total dollar amount, but there might be some flexibility on what those dollars actually pay for.) Hang in! You're almost there!

This may be unpopular advice, but do you have anyone that you could invite last minute to fill the spot?

I know a lot of folks on here think that a B list or a last minute invite is rude but in my circles it's pretty common to not only have a B list but to have a list of local folks to fill "no show" spots.

Do you HAVE to pay for her dinner in order to meet the minimum? Could you upgrade your food or something instead? If we fall below our minimum spending we will simply add more horderves or a dessert option or something to meet that requirement.

Oh okay. In that case I would ask if they can pack it up so I can take it home

Yesss....I was like, wow, and here I was stressing over having enough seating for everyone. Not to mention all of the wasted money on food, programs, etc. It's taking a lot for me not to reach out to these people, but I'm just trying to let it go.

The wasted money and lack of consideration is the most frustrating part. Not mad at our few "No" RSVPs but definitely ticked over "Yes" ones, especially when the excuses were "we were too tired" or "too busy."

Breathe... breathe. Sending relaxing vibes yours way...

Maybe see if someone you did not give a plus one would like to bring their s/o?

Shoot! I am sorry! I will be thinking of you! No matter what happens! your day will be beautiful and at the end of the day you will marry your life partner and thats all that matters!