If they had nothing to do with planning they may feel like they are guests as well and feel no obligation to help.While it would be nice and the right thing to do to offer if they have not at this point they most likely will not.

I think if you wanted financial help this should have been discussed up front during the planning process. I think it's a little late now. The out of state visitors do have the expense of coming in to the party. And I'm sure you enjoyed every bit of the planning so relish in the fun and pat yourself on the back. Accept their thanks and reward yourself with lots of pictures.

Just thinking -

Don't know how big or how lavish this party will be -

But -

Say you are paying $1000 for food and beverages - but have no travel expenses

And they are paying $1000 for travel to be there - but are paying for none of the party expense -

And this is all for the benefit of the parents celebrating their 70th - - - -

???

Don't know what everyone's financial condition is - but assuming that you are all more or less equal -

I have to agree with what someone else said; if they haven't offered to help out yet they probably won't. You may just have to cover it yourself. Another idea you could ask them outright to help and if they say sorry then you will know where you stand. Whatever happens enjoy the day and congradulations to the folks for such a long marriage.

this reminds me of my inlaws 60th. BIL and SIL, who lived closer, did all the planning and told us what our share would be - $200. We paid it and the topper was, MIL did not believe we had contributed anything.

Families - ya gotta shut up and love em sometimes.

PS - at your inlaws age (70th anniv. - wow!!) don't make it TOO much of a surprise!!

Be sure to find out their secrets for such a long marriage.

Sometimes "loving the relatives" is a mighty big stretch!

I think "inertia" is a factor for some long marriages.