Should Singles Be Able To Bring A Date To A Wedding?

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It’s no secret that weddings can be expensive.

Between the cost of the dress, the venue, the catering, and everything else, it’s easy to spend a small fortune on one day.

So when it comes to wedding etiquette, there are a lot of questions that come up.

One of those questions is whether or not singles should be allowed to bring a date to the wedding.

Is it weird to not bring a date to a wedding?

While there is no strict rule, it’s important to consider the bride and groom’s wishes and the wedding’s overall tone.

If the couple is close to you and you think they would be okay with it, then bringing a date may not be an issue.

However, if the couple is more formal or traditional, it’s probably best to attend the wedding solo.

In general, it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution when deciding whether or not to bring a date to a wedding.

After all, the goal is to help the bride and groom celebrate their special day—not cause drama or complications.

Who Should Be Allowed to Bring a Date to a Wedding?

The Wedding Party: The bridal party, groomsmen, and anyone officially part of the wedding should be allowed to bring a date.

The Couple’s Parents: The bride and groom’s parents are also usually allowed to bring plus ones.

Engaged Couples (or not!): If you are in a committed relationship but not yet engaged, you should still be allowed to bring a date.

Married Couples: If you are married, you and your spouse should be able to attend the wedding together.

The Pros and Cons of a Plus One At a wedding

There are a few things to consider before deciding whether or not to bring a date to a wedding.

Here are some pros and cons of having a plus one:

Pro

Weddings are a great opportunity to let loose and have fun on the dance floor. If you’re single, you might not have anyone to dance with unless you bring a date.
You can avoid any potential drama. If you’re single and there’s someone at the wedding you’re interested in, bringing a date can help avoid any potential drama or awkwardness.
It can make the event more enjoyable. If you don’t know anyone else at the wedding, having a date can help you feel more comfortable and provide someone to dance with and chat with during downtime.
It can add an element of fun and excitement to the event. If you’re bored with weddings or find them repetitive, bringing a date can help inject some new life into the proceedings.
A plus-one can be helpful if you’re hoping to meet someone new. If you’re single and looking to mingle, bringing a date to a wedding can give you a built-in conversation starter and potentially introduce you to someone new and interesting.

Con

You might end up spending more money. If you’re on a budget, bringing a date to a wedding can be expensive. You’ll have to buy them a ticket, pay for their dinner, and maybe even get them a hotel room if the wedding is out of town.
You’ll feel awkward if your date doesn’t know anyone. If you bring a date who doesn’t know anyone to the wedding, they might feel awkward and out of place. This can make for an uncomfortable evening for both of you.
Pictures can get complicated. If you want to be in a wedding photo with your date, it can get complicated if the photographer only takes photos of couples or families.

What Are the Some Rules for Bringing a Date to a Wedding?

Can singles bring a plus one to a wedding?

If you’ve been invited to a wedding and plan on bringing a date, there are a few etiquette rules you should be aware of.

Unless your invitation does not state “plus one,” you were not invited to bring a guest, period. Some guests may have been invited, assuming they would bring a date. In this case, you can ask your mutual friend or the couple if bringing someone is okay.
If you’re in a committed relationship and your partner wasn’t invited, you shouldn’t assume it’s fine to bring them. If you want to bring your partner, ask the couple if it’s okay. The same goes for children asking before you bring them along.
If you have a plus one, RSVP with their name rather than “Plus One.” The couple is likely paying per person, so they need an accurate headcount.
Don’t replace your named guest if they were listed on the invitation. If you can’t find a date or your plus one cancels on you at the last minute, don’t try to replace them with someone else.
The same goes for switching your plus one. If you originally RSVPed with a date and want to bring someone else, it’s best to check with the couple first.
Bring no one who is going to cause trouble. If you know that someone you want to bring is going to drink too much, start arguments or be disruptive, it’s best not to bring them. The couple’s wedding day should be enjoyable, and you don’t want to ruin it for anyone else.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Acceptable to Bring a Companion to a Wedding?

If you were invited as a guest and are having trouble finding a date, feel free to ask the bride or groom if you can bring a friend to their place. Some couples claim they don’t mind and that it’s okay.

Others will view it as impolite. You probably shouldn’t ask if you’re not at ease doing so.