From my brother's wedding, I realised that marriage can be a family matter.. and at times, it may become complicated especially when older generations are around.
I believe your PIL may just be voicing out their opinions and mean no harm. Maybe that is how they will talk to people.. Why not get your HTB to talk to his parents? Usually i let my hubby settle his parents side. Cos at times, not nice for me to voice out my concerns.. he should bring it across to the parents and know his parents well enough whether they mean certain things that they say..
letting them know ur budget may help too..