One of the most common questions guests ask when they receive a wedding invitation is: “Can I bring a plus one?”
Weddings involve budgets, seating plans, and family dynamics, which can make the answer tricky. This guide explains who typically gets a plus one, how to tell if you’re allowed one, and the polite way to ask if you’re unsure.
What Does a Plus One Mean?
A plus one allows a guest to bring an additional person to the wedding. This is usually shown on the envelope or RSVP card as:
- “Your Name and Guest”
- “Your Name + Guest”
- “You may bring one guest”
If your partner is specifically invited, their name is typically listed instead of using “guest.”
How Do You Know If You Can Bring a Plus One?
If you’re wondering, “Can I bring a plus one to this wedding?”, look for these clues:
The Invitation Envelope
- If it says “and guest,” you may bring someone.
- If your name stands alone, the invitation is for you only.
The RSVP Card
- Many RSVP cards have a line or checkbox for a plus one.
- If no space is provided, you are invited solo.
The Wedding Website
- Couples often clarify plus-one rules in the FAQ section of their wedding website.
Who Typically Gets a Plus One?
Couples usually follow etiquette when deciding who receives a plus one:
- Married or engaged guests: Spouses or fiancés are considered a unit.
- Long-term partners: Generally, relationships lasting a year or more are included.
- Wedding party members: Bridesmaids, groomsmen, and attendants often receive a plus one.
- Guests attending alone: If someone would otherwise know no one, a plus one may be offered.
Who Usually Doesn’t Get a Plus One
Some guests are less likely to receive a plus one, especially when budgets and seating are tight:
- Casual dating relationships
- Coworkers or acquaintances
- Younger guests or teens
- Single guests who already know multiple attendees
Is It Okay to Ask for a Plus One?
It’s generally best not to ask, but it’s acceptable in certain cases:
- If the invitation is unclear
- If you are in a long-term relationship and your partner’s name was unintentionally left off
- If the couple previously mentioned flexibility
Polite way to ask:
“I just wanted to confirm—should I plan to attend solo, or is there room for me to bring a plus one?”
If the couple declines, accept graciously. Their limitations are usually logistical, not personal.
Wedding Plus-One Wording Examples
Couples often communicate plus-one permissions clearly with wording such as:
- “You are invited to bring a guest.”
- “RSVP for 2 guests.”
- Guest Name + Guest Name
- “Due to limited space, we cannot accommodate additional guests.”
What Does “And Guest” Mean on a Wedding Invite?
“And guest” means you are allowed to bring someone of your choosing.
If the couple intends to invite a specific partner, they will usually list their name.
When you fill out the RSVP, it is generally good manners to write in the full name of your guest if space is provided, rather than just ‘Guest,’ for the couple’s seating plan and place cards.
Wedding Plus-One FAQ
Can I bring a plus one to a wedding?
You can bring a plus one only if your invitation includes “and guest,” your partner’s name, or a space for an additional attendee on the RSVP. If none of these appear, plan to attend solo.
How do I know if I’m allowed a plus one?
Check your invitation, RSVP card, and the wedding website. If any mention a guest, you are allowed one.
Is it rude to ask for a plus one?
It’s not rude if approached politely, especially if the invitation seems unclear. Accept the couple’s decision if the answer is no.
Who typically gets a plus one?
Married couples, engaged pairs, long-term partners, and wedding party members usually receive a plus one. Guests attending alone may also receive one in some cases.
What does “and guest” mean on a wedding invite?
“And guest” means you are allowed to bring someone of your choosing. If the couple intends to invite a specific partner, they will usually list their name. When you fill out the RSVP, it is generally good manners to write in the full name of your guest if space is provided, rather than just ‘Guest,’ for the couple’s seating plan and place cards.
Final Takeaway
If your invitation does not mention a plus one, traditional etiquette says to plan on attending solo. Couples carefully curate their guest list based on budget, venue size, and social dynamics. Respecting their decisions ensures a smoother experience for everyone.
Note: Always make sure to confirm your attendance and the name of your guest (if allowed) before the RSVP deadline to give the couple adequate time for seating and catering counts.