A wedding guest is facing a dilemma: her friend’s wedding is in a remote location in the Scottish Highlands, with limited and expensive accommodation options. The guest, Sandra, wants to camp to save money, as she owns a tent and enjoys camping. However, when she mentioned her plans to the maid of honor and mother of the bride, they were outraged. They deemed camping ‘tacky’ and insisted that Sandra should find the money for a hotel, implying she ‘owed’ it to her friend. They even suggested that if she stayed ‘outside’, she shouldn’t attend the wedding at all. This response has left Sandra heartbroken and unsure what to do.
Wedding planner and venue owner Alison Rios McCrone offers advice, reassuring Sandra that there is nothing inherently wrong with camping, especially when it allows her to attend the wedding without financial strain. She emphasizes that many guests choose alternative accommodation options at rural weddings due to limited and expensive hotel choices. Alison advises Sandra not to take the maid of honor and mother of the bride’s reaction to heart, as everyone has different financial circumstances and priorities.
Alison suggests that Sandra consider alternative options like affordable accommodations within a short drive, or even discuss her camping plans directly with the bride to see if she knows of any affordable options. The bride might even have access to discounted rates at her wedding venue. If the bride opposes the camping plan, Alison suggests exploring local taxi options for transportation back from the wedding venue, as these are often limited in rural areas.
Alison also recommends considering renting a nearby house or cottage with other guests, which can often be more economical than individual hotel rooms. Ultimately, however, if camping remains the best option, Alison encourages Sandra to stick with her plan. She stresses that no one has the right to disinvite Sandra, and the bride likely wouldn’t mind where she stays, as her presence at the wedding is what matters. True friends will understand and appreciate her efforts.
Alison’s advice emphasizes that attending the wedding is more important than where a guest chooses to stay. It also highlights the importance of understanding different financial situations and respecting guests’ choices regarding accommodation.
