Tory wrote:
Be honest and say upfront what you expect. We were invited to a bd party at a steak place for my niece's bd. No one ever said if we were supposed to pay our own way or not. Questions went unanswered and we didn't go. (I couldnt' afford the cost for the four of us at the time).
Later, my niece was upset because not many people came to her party.
If you plan to pay, say "it's my treat!" if not, say "I'd like for you to come if you can, it's $$ per person" so it's clear from the start. For a large family maybe offer to pay for a few of them.. you can, say "I know it's a bit costly and I'd like to help by paying for two of you if you can pay for the others" or something like that.
Great advice, Tory.