While I understand where Allison is coming from the bottom line is it is still hurtful! We chose to have a DW because my FI family is extremely large....Dad is from a family of 14, mom is from a family of 12...with over 45 cousins who believe it or not are very close there was no way combined with my family we could have done it at home. We really wrestled with the idea of a DW because we knew and felt bad that not everyone was going to attend. In the backs of our minds we knew that we would be disappointed should some people not be able to come and I too promised I wouldn't get miffed and when it finally did happened I cried for 2 days. Our case was different then this of course and I think the reason that this hurts more is because it was kind of done sneaky and behind your back. If say you can't come because you can't afford it is disappointing to the bride and groom, but at the same time understandable. To say yes, back out of being MOH and then back out completely is just sneaky and hurtful. Honestly is the way to go. it's your wedding and at the end of the day will be about you and your FI. That’s what is important. Enjoy this special time as it hopefully only comes once. Hang in there! This is just 1 small bump in the road to a wonderful day and life ahead!