Don’t want to go to the party

[Apartyinvite]

I am part of a group of about 10. (Hobby)
One member of the group is having a very extravagant party at her villa in St Tropez in April next year. She has just sent out a ‘save the date’
i am on friendly terms with the group. No falling out. I am particularly close to one person who I would call a friend. Not much in common with the others apart from the hobby.
But I really don’t want to go to this two day party.
I just really don’t want to spend money on a holiday with people I have little in common with.
I cannot think of any plans I could have that would be that far in advance.
WWYD?

Just say you’re busy

"Thanks for inviting me, I really appreciate it. Unfortunately, I can't make it, but I hope you have a wonderful time!"

• Do not wait for the invitation, you need to let her know as soon as possible so she can plan accordingly
• You don't need to justify why you are unable to go.

Wedding invitations come with a save the date. Do you have a husband or partner who can have a relation getting married

There's a happy medium.

Why would she be offended if you thank her politely for the invitation and say you can't attend?

Her problem - not yours.

Just tell her now. No, thank you.

I assume you have to pay for your own flights? Would you need holiday off work? Is there no excuse you can make money or timewise or family or holiday wise? Otherwise what concert or theatre event can you book on that weekend ?!

Could anyone in your extended family be celebrating a special birthday or anniversary that weekend?! I've used that excuse to avoid a wedding that I was baffled I was invited to. There was no way they would ever know I wasn't going out

Why would anyone need an excuse?

Just reply that you have a lot on next year and it’s not possible for you to attend , you hope they have a wonderful time and you can’t wait to see the pictures .
she doesn’t know what your plans are for next year and unless you are a particularly close friend she can’t expect you to tie up your time to attend .
I would definitely do it now rather than later just incase anyone else doesn’t want to go and if you change your mind later you can always ask if there’s a space for you .

The problem with inventing an excuse is that you have to remember it and perpetuate it when the time comes around. If it's something happening next week, that's not too hard, but six months is a long time to be consistent, and of course, the aftermath, inventing answers to 'How did your Great Aunt Ethel's 90th birthday party go?' or whatever.

If I were going down the 'alternative engagement' route I would be inclined to actually arrange something that coincided with the April trip rather than have to lie.