Family troubles

I'm so sorry that you need to go through this. I would just say it's a small/intimate event. And realistically it's your day. If they want to be invited well they can contribute to your wedding by helping out with the payment if that's what they say. You cannot invite everyone, if you need to just say you picked a very intimate venue and due to accommodation you have already reached your limit. And what exactly is classified as a "real wedding"?

Weddings bring out such unnecessary drama, be it family or friends. People just see it as a giant get together and don't care about the host(s)' feeling's or the process, time or money it takes as long as they are involved. In the end don't let it bother you, at the end of the day you and your SO need to be happy.

Wow that’s so judgmental sorry to hear you’re being stressed by this it’s too bad when family treats their own like this. Times are different now and not everyone can accept that. Hang in there girl!

People, including family, can be extremely ride at times. Especially when they don't get invited. We excluded lots of family and friends to keep out number where we wanted and if people make a comment then I definitely don't want them. But for someone to say it's not a real wedding just because of that?!?! That's insane!! They don't even deserve to be invited! Do not let them get you down! I'm sorry you're dealing with this..