So I have an artist alley table at NYCC this year. I'm super

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So I have an artist alley table at NYCC this year. I'm super nervous because this is the first time I've ever done any kind of artist alley so I'm hoping I'm not underprepared. I'm also nervous because I know a lot of famous artists/industry professionals will be there. I got the full table because I figured it's good to have bigger space and I can have someone sit with me.

The only problem is, the person that was supposed to sit with me can only attend Sat and Sun. I may be able to get my sister to come with me on Thurs and Friday, but if not my mom keeps asking if she could sit with me.

I feel its super embarrassing, unprofessional and cringeworthy to have my own mom sit at the table with me. This is a place where I'm trying to get my name out there and network and I don't want to be known as the artist who had their mother sit with them. Maybe I'm wrong but it just feels weird.

On top of that, how do you sell someone, like your mom, that you don't want them there because it looks childish and unprofessional?

Would you have your mom or grandma sit with you at your table? Am I being silly?

I just feel weird if I shake hands with a big industry professional and having to introduce "oh this is my mom".

My mom also has a tendency to gush about my work which just makes things feel more awkward.