How to Handle Plus-Ones: A Guide to Wedding Guest Etiquette

7 min read Arden

A ‘plus-one’ refers to an invitation extended to a guest, allowing them to bring a companion to an event, such as a wedding. This privilege is not automatically granted to every guest and should not be presumed. Traditionally, plus-ones are offered to guests in committed relationships, including those who are married, engaged or in long-term partnerships.

It is also customary to extend plus-ones to guests who may have limited acquaintances at the wedding, such as single friends or family members. However, it is crucial to understand that not every guest is entitled to a plus-one, and the decision to extend this invitation lies solely with the couple getting married. When deciding who receives a plus-one, the couple must consider various factors, including their budget, venue capacity and overall guest list.

Consistency in extending plus-one invitations is essential to avoid potential misunderstandings or hurt feelings. The decision should be made thoughtfully, taking into account each guest’s individual circumstances. A plus-one invitation serves as a means to ensure guests feel welcomed and included in the celebration.

It should be extended with careful consideration and thoughtfulness.

Summary

Plus-ones are additional invitations extended to guests to bring a date or companion to a wedding.
Clearly communicate your plus-one policy on the invitations and wedding website to avoid confusion.
Handle requests for additional plus-ones with grace and diplomacy, considering the size and budget of your wedding.
Make seating arrangements for plus-ones by grouping them with mutual friends or accommodating special requests.
Ensure plus-ones feel welcome and included by introducing them to other guests and including them in wedding activities.
Deal with last-minute plus-one requests by assessing the situation and making a decision that works for your wedding.
Navigate plus-one etiquette for different wedding events, such as the ceremony, reception, and other pre or post-wedding gatherings.

Communicating Plus-One Policy to Your Guests

When it comes to communicating the plus-one policy to your guests, clarity is key. It is important to clearly outline who is eligible for a plus-one and who is not on the wedding invitations. This can be done by addressing the invitation specifically to the guest and their plus-one, if applicable.

For example, the invitation could be addressed to “John Smith and Guest” if John is eligible for a plus-one. In addition to addressing the invitations appropriately, it can also be helpful to include a note on the wedding website or in the invitation suite that outlines the plus-one policy. This can help avoid any confusion or misunderstandings and can also serve as a gentle reminder to guests about the policy.

It is also important for the couple to communicate their plus-one policy clearly and consistently with their families and wedding party. This can help prevent any potential conflicts or misunderstandings when it comes to extending plus-ones to certain guests. Overall, clear and transparent communication about the plus-one policy can help set expectations and avoid any potential awkwardness or discomfort for both the couple and their guests.

Handling Requests for Additional Plus-Ones

It is not uncommon for guests to request additional plus-ones, especially if they are not in a committed relationship or if they do not know many other people at the wedding. When handling these requests, it is important for the couple to consider their budget, venue capacity, and overall guest list. If a guest requests an additional plus-one, it is important for the couple to handle the situation with sensitivity and tact.

They may consider having a conversation with the guest to understand their circumstances and reasons for requesting an additional plus-one. However, it is also important for the couple to be firm in their decision and to communicate their policy clearly and respectfully. In some cases, it may be possible to accommodate additional plus-ones if budget and venue capacity allow.

However, if this is not feasible, it is important for the couple to explain their decision to the guest in a kind and understanding manner. Ultimately, handling requests for additional plus-ones requires empathy, clear communication, and a firm but respectful approach.

Making Seating Arrangements for Plus-Ones

When it comes to making seating arrangements for plus-ones, it is important for the couple to consider the comfort and enjoyment of all their guests. This may involve seating plus-ones with other guests they know or are likely to get along with. It can also be helpful to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences when making seating arrangements for plus-ones.

In some cases, couples may choose to seat all plus-ones together at a designated table. This can be a thoughtful way to ensure that plus-ones feel welcome and included in the celebration. However, it is important for the couple to consider the dynamics of their guest list and make seating arrangements that will be comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.

It is also important for the couple to communicate any specific seating arrangements to their venue or caterer in advance. This can help ensure that all guests, including plus-ones, have a positive experience at the wedding. Overall, making seating arrangements for plus-ones requires thoughtfulness, consideration, and attention to detail.

Ensuring Plus-Ones Feel Welcome and Included

It is important for couples to make an effort to ensure that plus-ones feel welcome and included in the wedding celebration. This can involve introducing them to other guests, including them in pre-wedding events, and making an effort to engage with them during the wedding festivities. Couples may also consider providing information about local attractions or activities on their wedding website or in welcome bags for out-of-town guests.

This can help ensure that plus-ones have an enjoyable experience during their time at the wedding. It can also be helpful for couples to communicate with their wedding party and families about making an effort to include plus-ones in pre-wedding events and activities. This can help ensure that all guests feel welcome and valued throughout the celebration.

Ultimately, ensuring that plus-ones feel welcome and included requires thoughtfulness, communication, and a genuine effort to make them feel like an important part of the wedding festivities.

Dealing with Last-Minute Plus-One Requests

Last-minute plus-one requests can be challenging for couples to navigate, especially if they have already finalized their guest list and seating arrangements. When faced with last-minute requests for additional plus-ones, it is important for couples to consider their budget, venue capacity, and overall guest list. If it is possible to accommodate last-minute plus-one requests without causing any significant disruptions, couples may choose to do so as a gesture of goodwill.

However, if accommodating these requests would pose logistical challenges or financial strain, it is important for couples to communicate their decision respectfully but firmly. It can also be helpful for couples to explain their reasoning behind their decision to the guest making the last-minute request. This can help prevent any potential misunderstandings or hurt feelings.

Ultimately, dealing with last-minute plus-one requests requires careful consideration of logistics, budget constraints, and clear communication with guests.

Navigating Plus-One Etiquette for Different Wedding Events

When it comes to navigating plus-one etiquette for different wedding events, it is important for couples to consider the specific dynamics of each event. For example, couples may choose to extend plus-ones for the wedding ceremony and reception but not for pre-wedding events such as the rehearsal dinner or bridal shower. It can also be helpful for couples to communicate their plus-one policy clearly on invitations and wedding websites for each event.

This can help set expectations and avoid any potential confusion or misunderstandings. When planning seating arrangements for different wedding events, couples may choose to seat plus-ones together at designated tables or integrate them with other guests they know. It is important for couples to consider the comfort and enjoyment of all their guests when making these arrangements.

Overall, navigating plus-one etiquette for different wedding events requires thoughtfulness, clear communication, and attention to detail. By considering these factors carefully, couples can ensure that all their guests feel welcome and included throughout the wedding celebration.

If you’re planning a wedding and need some inspiration, head over to World Bridal Event for tips and ideas on how to make your big day extra special. From choosing the perfect dress to finding the right venue, this website has everything you need to plan the wedding of your dreams. And if you’re still unsure about wedding guest etiquette, be sure to check out their article on how to handle plus-ones.

FAQs

What is a plus-one at a wedding?

A plus-one is an invitation that allows a guest to bring a date or a companion to a wedding.

Who should receive a plus-one invitation to a wedding?

Traditionally, plus-one invitations are extended to guests who are in a committed relationship, married, or engaged. However, the decision ultimately lies with the couple getting married.

How should guests handle a plus-one invitation?

If a guest receives a plus-one invitation, they should consider the couple’s wishes and RSVP accordingly. It is important to respect the couple’s decision and not assume that a plus-one is automatically included.

What should guests do if they want to bring a plus-one but haven’t been given the option?

If a guest wishes to bring a plus-one but has not been given the option on the invitation, they should reach out to the couple or the designated RSVP contact to inquire about the possibility of bringing a date.

Is it acceptable to bring a different plus-one if the original one is unable to attend?

It is considered impolite to bring a different plus-one if the original one is unable to attend. Guests should inform the couple of any changes to their RSVP and respect the couple’s decision regarding plus-one invitations.