Have pushed the boat out this year to give my young DS a birthday party at the venue of his dreams. It's pay per head and not cheap but it is good value for money and something he has always wanted to do so I have stretched his birthday budget, he's not getting as many presents to make it more manageable, and he sees the party as one of his presents. He's a lovely little boy and deserves something special.
Anyway. A few parents have RSVP'd to say they are either struggling with childcare for sibling or have a sibling that would love to come along, would this be ok. They are all really lovely people - and generally bring siblings along to parties in halls / homes (the children aren't at the drop & run age yet) so the siblings are part of the group in a way. There is no cheekiness in their requests, they are nice, genuine people.
My response has been along the lines of - there will be plenty of adults and venue staff to manage if parents can't stay, but happy for siblings to come along if they are payed for on the door.
I feel really crass asking people to pay/mentioning money but really can't afford to have several children added to the final invoice.
Would you do the same? would you feel awkward/embarrassed about it? Or am I thinking too much..