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AIBU?

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Asking family to pay for own meals when invited out

578 replies

ThePeachLemur · 31/05/2026 16:51

Its our DS's 18th this month and he's wanting to go to a local restaurant for a meal to celebrate, which is great. However, we want to invite the wider family. AIBU to request they pay for their own meal? The cost of eating out now is so expensive that it would cost us in excess of £500 and its money better spent elsewhere. We aren't skint, but like all of us, we have to be savvy. DH is embarrassed to ask his family to pay for their own meal. I've spoken to my side and its not an issue. Just hate feeling like I'm being tight.

OP posts:
Pepsi4Eva · 31/05/2026 16:54

HipHipWhoRay · 31/05/2026 16:53

It’s so tricky, as they may also feel that money is tight. Can you compromise, like offering to pay for food but not drinks?

That was my thought too. But it's hard to know how to phrase things if people are expecting to be hosted, I find!

ThisJadeBear · 31/05/2026 16:53

I think in this day and age it’s absolutely fine. After all it’s not too bad for one person to pay for their own meal.
Maybe you could pay for desserts/coffees as a gesture?

HipHipWhoRay · 31/05/2026 16:53

It’s so tricky, as they may also feel that money is tight. Can you compromise, like offering to pay for food but not drinks?