We've recently got engaged and I was only planning on having two bridesmaids; my sister and my cousin (to whom I am very close).
I know it is tradition and considered good etiquette to ask someone from my Partner's side of the family but I don't really want to.
The only person I would like to ask is his young niece (she's 12) but she is very shy and I feel like she would feel awkward spending the morning alone with my sister and cousin. I wouldn't want her to be lonely or to not have a good time. I would therefore invite her mother (my sister in law to be) but she isn't really the bridesmaid-y kind of person and I also feel she would see it as a bit of a chore.
Then if I do invite the niece and sister in law, then I'd have to invite someone from Partners Mother's side as she became very funny about us-vs-them after she split up with FIL.
Then I'd end up with ATLEAST 5 bridesmaids and all the costs of the dresses, hair, makeup, wedding cars that we would have to skimp for to be able to afford.
Would you think I was rude if I just had the two from my side? Am I at risk of starting life with the in laws on the wrong foot?