One of the most challenging aspects of wedding planning is determining your guest list. Adding the option for a "plus one" can significantly impact your budget, venue space, and the overall vibe of your wedding. Here are some helpful guidelines to assist you in deciding who should be given a plus one.
1. Married, Engaged, or in a Serious Relationship
If a guest is married, engaged, or in a long-term committed relationship, it’s generally expected to offer them a plus one. This includes couples who are living together or have been dating for a significant amount of time.
Tip: If you're unsure about the status of someone's relationship, don’t hesitate to ask! Close friends or family members can usually provide clarity.
2. Out-of-Town Guests
Inviting someone who has to travel a long distance, especially if they won’t know many others at the wedding, warrants extending a plus one. This makes the experience more enjoyable for them and ensures they have a companion at your celebration.
3. Wedding Party Members
Your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other key wedding party members invest time and effort into your big day. It's a thoughtful gesture to allow them to bring a guest, even if they aren’t in a committed relationship.
4. Close Friends or Relatives
For single friends or relatives, deciding on a plus one can be more challenging. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: Would this person have more fun with a date by their side? If they’re close to you but don’t know many other guests, offering them a plus one might be a kind consideration.
5. Avoid Blanket Plus-One Invitations
While it might be tempting to offer all single guests a plus one, this can quickly increase the guest count and your budget. Instead, consider each guest individually, prioritizing those closest to you and most likely to benefit from having a date.
6. Setting Boundaries for Plus Ones
If you're worried about your guest list growing too large, you can set boundaries by specifying that a plus one is for a significant other or serious partner only. You can communicate this tactfully by addressing the invitation to your guest and their partner by name, or by only using “and guest” when appropriate.
7. Communicating the Decision
Your wedding invitations should clearly indicate whether a guest is invited with a plus one. For clarity, list the guest’s name on both the outer and inner envelopes and include "and guest" when applicable. Make sure your RSVP card specifies how many seats are reserved for each guest.
Ultimately, deciding who gets a plus one depends on your budget, venue capacity, and your relationship with the guest. Trust your instincts, and remember that this is your special day. Carefully managing your guest list will help ensure your wedding is intimate, enjoyable, and within budget.
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