Mom's 50th--etiquette question

[bekkiz]

My mom has a had a rough year. Not super bad, but is now single after 10 years, and is trying to run a business that she loves, but is really struggling to make it workd, She's maxed out every credit card etc to stay afloat.

Also, my sister and I don't see her that often, as we are both really busy with work etc, and due to the nature of my mom's business (a comedy club) she's busy the few hours we're not. Add this to the break up of her long term relationship, and she's feeling a bit neglected. She's also an overly dramtic person, which makes everything worse!

Anyway, my sister and I thought it might be fun to treat her to a day in the wine country with a car to drive us around to wine taste, and a nice dinner etc. Between the two of us, we could afford to take mom and one of her oldest friends, as well as the two of us on this day. However, it would be nice to invite her other two really good friends, as well as someone she sees as a 3rd daughter.

The problem is I can't afford 7 people--4 would be a stretch, but I also feel really weird about inviting people to pay for themselves. Is there any way to do this, or should it just be a nice after noon for 4, instead of 7?

 

[UrsulasMyHero]

I would go for a family only celebration, that way you have a little extra to lavish on mom. I Hope her birthday is a fabulous one.

 

[BunsenH]

If you know the 3 "extra" people well, and they are good friends of your mom, I would ask them if they'd like contribute something and come along. They might be looking for something to do for your mother and by chipping in and attending as well, everyone is happy.