Avoiding physical contact at family gatherings - Salaam and a plan

Assalamu alaikum - I'm a revert Muslimah who wears hijab. I lived in a Muslim country for a couple of years, and now I'm back home where most of my family are Christian or secular. I have a big family gathering coming up with close and distant relatives and their spouses. We usually shake hands and sometimes hug when we're close. I'm trying to avoid physical contact with certain cousins and other relatives I shouldn't touch for religious reasons, but I don't want to offend anyone or seem rude. People here might call it excessive or prudish. Any simple ways to handle greetings that feel natural and respectful without causing awkwardness? Ideas I've thought of: - Offer a warm verbal salaam and a smile as you approach, so it’s clear you're greeting them. - Place your hand over your heart while saying "As-salamu alaikum" or "Peace be with you" - it's a sincere sign of respect and often read as polite rather than distant. - Extend a slight nod or a small wave instead of reaching out. - If someone reaches out, gently step back and respond with the hand-over-heart gesture and a kind phrase like "Wa alaikum as-salam" or "Nice to see you." - Prepare a short line in case someone comments, like "I prefer to avoid handshakes - I hope you understand," said kindly. - Use light humor if that fits your family to ease tension, for example: "I'm on a no-handshake diet today!" and then smile and place your hand on your heart. I'm looking for other practical, simple ways to navigate this that keep the tone warm and avoid making relatives feel offended. Any tips people have used with non-Muslim family would be appreciated.