We are starting to get RSVPs back for our wedding, which is great! I knew going into it that around 10-15% will end up declining, but getting the first decline today still kinda sucks.
For context, the decline came from my cousin. I invited her and her husband - they do have a 3 year old, but he's not on the list, and frankly, he doesn't behave and I don't really want him at the wedding. Anyways, I talk with my cousin and she is currently in the divorce process and custody battle - meaning her kid can't stay with the dad right now and someone from an approved list has to watch her kid if she can't. Most people on that list are also on the guestlist, such as my other cousin and aunt. So as of now, she's not able to come unless: her kid can come OR: she finds someone who can watch over him for a bit and she'd leave after the first dance.
I'm standing my ground on not letting her kid in, so she probably won't be coming to the wedding. It sucks because we were close growing up and if it weren't for the divorce/custody battle, she'd be able to go. I know it's a tough spot for her, and I really appreciate her being up-front with me about it (she messaged me earlier explaining that her RSVP is in the mail, but this is the situation).
Anyways, how did you deal with the first RSVP decline? Was it someone you expected would decline or a complete surprise? Did you stuck to rules you made earlier or bend them a bit so someone who couldn't attend now could?
