The RSVP card arrives in the mail looking all elegant and innocent. But then you see that tiny, loaded checkbox: “Plus-one?”

Cue the existential spiral.

Whether you're kinda-sorta seeing someone, deep in your single era, or debating bringing your bestie just so you don't have to awkwardly hover near the gift table, the question of the plus-one is a modern dilemma for people still figuring out what ‘we’ means. Let’s break down whether you should bring someone or confidently go it alone.

You're Dating…But It’s Complicated

You're three dates in. Things feel promising, but also? Fragile. Do you really want to introduce this person to your college friends, your family, and your open bar dance moves all at once?

Ask yourself: “If I bring this person, and we break up next week, will I regret having them in all the wedding pics?”

Bringing a maybe-partner to a wedding can put relationship pressure on both of you. That’s a lot of “I do” energy for someone who hasn’t even met your cat yet.

Pro: Built-in dance partner and conversation buffer
Con: Could create unspoken expectations neither of you are ready for
Verdict: Bring them only if you’ve at least had The Talk—or you’re okay with risking it for the open bar.

It’s Your Best Friend’s Wedding—Reunion Style

Your college crew is flying in. It’s going to be part wedding, part flashback episode. Bringing an outsider to that kind of deeply nostalgic event can be… a choice.

Unless your plus-one knows and loves your inner circle, you might find yourself babysitting your date instead of belting out throwback bangers on the dance floor.

Pro: You won’t be totally alone
Con: You might miss out on reconnecting with people who really matter
Verdict: If it’s your people, go solo. This is your time to shine, not play tour guide.

You’re Dreading Being the Only Single

Totally valid. No one loves being the only person without someone to slow dance with during “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

But hear this: Going solo is a power move.

You can table hop. Mingle. Flirt. Leave when you want. And hey, you’re not the only one flying solo; more people skip the plus-one than you think.

Pro: Full freedom, mysterious main character energy
Con: You may have to survive the dreaded “So, no date?” question
Verdict: Rock that solo RSVP. Wear something bold, channel your inner rom-com star, and own the room.

Considering a Platonic Plus-One?

This can be the best of both worlds. No romantic pressure, just someone who knows how to hype you up on the dance floor and won’t embarrass you during the bouquet toss.

Bring a friend who’s social, adaptable, and knows how to match your vibe. Bonus points if they know how to wing-person you.

Pro: Built-in selfie partner and support system
Con: Only works if they’re truly wedding-compatible (read: not a buzzkill)
Verdict: Strong option, as long as your friend is more fun than fuss.

Quick Tips for Owning Your RSVP

Check the fine print: Not all weddings offer a plus-one. Don’t assume.
Don’t bring someone just to “look” coupled: This isn’t a performance.
Going solo? Prepare to thrive: Plan a killer outfit, set a post-wedding treat, and walk in like you belong there (because you do).
Bringing someone? Brief them: Names, social dynamics, table drama …give them the full dossier.

Bottom Line

Bring someone if it adds to the experience. Go solo if you’re feeling yourself.
There’s no right or wrong answer, just what makes you feel most you.
After all, you were invited for a reason. Don’t let your RSVP status steal your joy.

Were you in a similar situation? Write us at editor@team.couple.com and tell us what happened when you did (or didn’t) bring a date.