Plus One

Hey Wedding Watchers! I took a week off and now I’m back. If you’ve planned a wedding or utilized a wedding planner, most agree, that the “worst” part of planning is the RSVP’s and that dreaded plus one.  A lot of people like to work on their own time, with no realization that you need it when you say you need it.  It holds up the venue and caterers, and then slows the process all together.  It also takes away from time when you have to chase people down or make a bunch of phone calls.  People,…get it to whomever is collecting RSVPs on the bride and groom’s time, not yours.  This leads to talking about the plus one.  As one of my clients said, “How annoying and so rude”; annoyed is the last thing any bride or groom wants to be.  I think guests lose all thought of, all seats are paid for, and it’s not cheap.   Some people are paying anywhere between $100-$250 per head, depending on where you’re having it; so that +1 is a big deal.  So who gets a plus one?  Anyone that is married is guaranteed a plus one.  Even if you’re friends with one person and not the other.   If you’re inviting your boss or boss’ boss, you still should invite their spouse.  It’s just respectful.  Anyone who is engaged should absolutely be give a plus one as well.  These people are committed to each other and are going to be walking down the aisle themselves. Respect their commitment and soon to be union. Who else?  People in long term relationships should get a plus one.  Im talking about a year or more. A lot of times these people are living together.  How awkward would it be to come home to an invitation and only have it addressed to one of you… yeah… On top of that, you’re left questioning whether or not your spouse is invited if it’s not clarified.  Your entire wedding party should get a plus one.  These awesome people have been with you through the bridal shower, dress fittings, bachelorette party etc.  They have given you their opinions when needed , time, and most importantly, their patience.  They’ve also spent a lot of money being a part of your journey.  These people are obviously important to you.  Extend the plus one invite.

Gorgeous stationery Designed and Created by Melissa, owner of Cupcake-Graphics

Ok, lets get into the people who don’t need a plus one.  Single Guest don’t need a plus one, especially if they know other guests.  Now I’m not saying everyone.  If you’re really close to this single guest, you may make an exception.  Now if it’s your mom’s unmarried cousin Jim, that you either don’t know or haven’t seen in years, Jim doesn’t need a plus one.  Deal with each of this type of guest carefully.  Co workers.  I’m walking a FINE line, I know.  First, don’t ever feel obligated to invite all coworkers you come in contact with.  Avoid the mess and don’t invite any if thats the case.  But if you’re close with your coworkers, like you work in a small office that contains like 5 of you, or you hang out with these coworkers outside of the office, it’s fine to invite them clearly, but a plus one… no.  Just seat all co workers together.  Also, don’t give one or two co workers a plus one and not the others; if one or two get a plus one, they all get a plus one. Ultimately, it’s your decision who gets a plus one, and what fits in your budget.  Be sure to always be clear on whether or not your guest gets a plus one.  On the envelope, write the guests name “and Guest”.  Just avoid the drama and confusion it could cause.  Thanks for tuning in WW.