Hi ladies,

My entire family (50 people) is coming from Chicago for the wedding (in NYC).  My family does not fly at all, so I thought it would be easier to rent a charter bus for all of them to relax while traveling instead of them trying to carpool together.

I let everyone know that it would cost $120 a seat to ride the bus (much cheaper than a flight) and required each person to put down $30 by November 1 to reserve their seat.  Guess how many people gave the deposit..... NONE!! I was soo irritated.  My friend said you know black people like to wait until the last minute.

I get it, but I need to reserve the bus now to ensure that we have a bus for the time next year.  I had negotiated with the bus company for a 45 passenger bus to let me pay the deposit of $500 in January because I expected a couple of late stragglers.  There is another company with a 30 passenger bus thats cheaper, and I know I will have definitely 20 people who are going to absolutely ride the bus.

So now what should I do, do I still put down the deposit for the 45passenger and just let them turn in money when they get it?  Do I go with the other company for the smaller 30 bus, give them a deposit, pay the difference? Or do I just let them figure out transportation for themselves?

Hi allbyfaith! I know exactly what you mean! I am giving my family way long heads up on our destinantion wedding. I get the vibe that they still wont save up and be prepared to pay for what they need to attend- passports, transportation, etc... But we are very organized and we have set out all details on wedding web site and invitations. Right now, I feel like if they dont pay - oh well - their loss. I think if you really have the $- pay the deposit and remind your family and friends of the deposit needed - in writing - via email or little "reminders."

I am not a pro at this so I am sorry for the lack of advice- LMK how it works out