Decline invite

[Lollipopslife17]

Can someone be kind enough to suggest/write how to decline a hens invitation from a no so nice sister in-law?

"I'm sorry, I am unable to attend"

Job done - no explanations, no excuses.

Surely you just buy an rsvp card and put you aren't accepting.

If she asks you already have plans for that day.

Sorry I can't leave the kids.

Thanks for the invite unfortunately I can't join you.

Sorry I already have plans for that night

Sorry I won’t be able to make it.

Don’t go into more detail or give reasons/excuses.

If it is your sister in law you will need to have actual concrete alternative plans.

’I am so sorry I have tickets with a friend that weekend and I can’t let her down’. Then actually go to something. It’s one thing to cancel/refuse to go (that’s fine) but she is kin so don’t hurt her feelings or cause unnecessary trouble.

This

If you don’t get on that well/aren’t close then presumably she’s just inviting you because she has to, so might be quietly relieved when you decline.
Don’t stress, decline as quickly as possible, you’ll feel better afterwards.

Many apologies but I will not be able to attend. I am sure you will have a fabulous time. Enjoy!

**Add no reasons or excuses, they will be remembered!!

Don't do it by phone, email or text - that invites conversation/explanation. Buy a card - makes it look like you've bothered. Also - less space to have to have to write anything.

Then, just say 'thanks for the invite, very thoughtful, hope you have a great time, unfortunately I can't make it.' No other explanation.

I did exactly this for a family occasion under similar circumstances. No fallout at all.

It’s a sister in law - you will need an explanation. (Normally I would agree no explanation, but this time would be naive to think no one will ask why you weren’t there)