How do I [20F] handle family situations with my girlfriend [20F] if her family doesn't know about our relationship?

My girlfriend and I (both women) have been together for almost a year, and things have been amazing and we are incredibly happy. We never fight, even though some time ago we had a small conflict that left me thinking.

She is very family-oriented and often has family meals. Her parents know about our relationship, but the rest of her family doesn’t. To them she has introduced me as just a “friend.” She’s invited me a couple of times, and I went, but it made me nervous to be there without being open about who I really am to her.

The last time she invited me, at first I said yes, but later told her I wouldn't go because I wasn’t feeling prepared. She was disappointed and a little upset, since it meant a lot to her that I joined. It’s not that I didn't want to be with her or meet her family, I do, but seeing the confused face expressions when they see me in the family reunion is a bit uncomfortablef for me. I explained this to her and she kind of unterstood it.

She’s told me she’s not ready to come out to them yet, which I respect. At the same time, I don’t know how to handle the next invitation. Should I go anyway to support her, even if it feels uncomfortable? Or is it reasonable to set a boundary and only go once she’s ready to be open about us? I mean, obviously people are not stupid and see something strange about bringing a friend that often at family meals.

It's my first relationship and the fact of having to be cautious about how we tell people and how they react is hard to handle.