Asking Eric: Is it petty for bride to deny aunt’s plus one, just because she’s not met him?

A woman is seeking guidance from R. Eric Thomas after her niece refused to allow her partner of five years to attend her wedding. Despite the woman offering to cover costs for meals and seating, the bride remains firm because she has never met the man. The aunt, who has historically been close to and financially supportive of her nieces, is now questioning whether she should skip the wedding due to this exclusion.