I like the idea of leaving it open to the individual, personally. Some people might want to keep it canon for their characters, and that's fine. But, if for example you'd like it to be non-canon for yourself and just have it as a sort of practice run, your character can always be chalked up to just another nameless face in the crowd afterwards. I'd like to think nobody would have any major issue with that.
Assuming you and others in your boat are comfortable with that idea, of course. Above all else I'd rather this event be welcoming to as many people as possible.
Assuming you and others in your boat are comfortable with that idea, of course. Above all else I'd rather this event be welcoming to as many people as possible.