A plus-one is an invitation for a guest to bring someone of their choice. Hosts usually invite married, engaged and long-term partners by name, then decide whether single guests get a plus-one based on budget and space. Whatever you decide, write it on the invitation: name every invited guest so there is no guesswork.
Who usually gets a plus-one?
- Married, engaged and long-term partners: invite them by name rather than as a plus-one
- Members of the wedding party, if budget allows
- Guests who will not know anyone else there
- Guests travelling a long way
These are conventions, not rules. Many couples set a simple line, such as "partners we have met", and stick to it.
How do you show who is invited?
Name everyone on the envelope or in the message. "Sam and Priya" is clear; "Sam and guest" means Sam can bring someone; "Sam" alone means just Sam. On an online RSVP, ask for the names of everyone coming, so guests confirm who is in their party.
How do you say no plus-ones politely?
Due to limited space, we can only welcome the guests named on the invitation.
We would love to have you there. We are keeping numbers small, so we are not able to offer plus-ones this time. We hope you understand.
How should a guest ask for a plus-one?
Ask privately and early, give a reason and make it easy for the host to say no. "Would it be all right to bring my partner, Alex? Completely understand if not." Never add someone to an RSVP without asking.
What if a guest RSVPs for someone who is not invited?
Reply privately and kindly, as soon as you notice. "We are so sorry for any confusion: we have only been able to invite the guests named on the invitation." The dashboard lets you edit the reply once you have spoken.
How do plus-ones work on RSVP Events?
Turn on the partner or plus-one question and guests can say whether they are bringing someone and give their name. With names and meal choices turned on, each person in the party gets a meal choice, and the headcount counts them all.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to give every single guest a plus-one?
No. It is common to give plus-ones to partners only, or to guests who will not know anyone. The kind thing is to apply the same rule to everyone.
Is it rude to ask for a plus-one?
Not if you ask privately, early and politely, and accept a no gracefully. Asking on the RSVP itself, without checking first, puts the host in an awkward spot.
Should a plus-one be named on the invitation?
If you know who they are, yes. Named guests feel welcomed rather than tagged on, and it makes place cards and the seating plan easier.