Addressing Unknown Plus Ones: Wedding Invitation Etiquette

When it comes to wedding planning, there are a lot of factors to consider, and addressing wedding invitations is one of them. While there are no set rules, it is important to navigate wedding plus-one etiquette to ensure your guests feel welcome. One common question that arises is how to address a plus-one on the invitation, especially when you don't know the name of the guest. In this case, it is appropriate to write and Guest on the envelope, or include a note inside the invitation indicating that they are invited to bring a plus-one. This way, you can leave the option open without needing to know the name of the plus-one in advance.

Mr. Smith & Guest

When addressing a wedding invitation to someone with an unknown plus one, the best practice is to use the format "Mr. Smith & Guest". This lets Mr. Smith know that he is allowed to bring a guest, without assuming the gender of the guest.

If you are using a double envelope system, you would write Mr. Smith's name on the outer envelope, and "Mr. Smith & Guest" on the inner envelope. This way, Mr. Smith knows who the invitation is addressed to, and that he is allowed to bring a guest.

If you are only using a single envelope, you would write "Mr. Smith & Guest" on the front, and it is considered good etiquette to include a space on the RSVP card for the number of guests attending. This will help to eliminate any extras that someone may want to invite.

It is also worth noting that, while it is your wedding and ultimately your decision, it is considered standard practice to allow plus ones for members of the couple's immediate family, wedding party members, outlier guests who won't know many other attendees, and couples who are engaged, live together, or are otherwise in a serious or long-term relationship.

You are invited to bring a guest

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are a few different ways to indicate that a guest is invited to bring a plus one. Here are some suggestions:

"Mr. Smith & Guest"

This is a common way to indicate that a guest is invited to bring someone. The full name is used along with the indication "and Guest". Once the guest confirms their attendance, their plus one's name can be added to the seating chart, escort cards, etc.

"You are invited to bring a guest"

Another approach is to include a note at the bottom of the card or on the back of the invitation explicitly stating that the guest is invited to bring someone. This can be done without using the term "plus one".

"Mr. Smith" on the outer envelope and "and Guest" on the inner envelope

When addressing the outer envelope, write only the guest's name without adding "and guest". This makes it clear that the invitation is directed specifically to them. Then, on the inner envelope, you can indicate that they are invited to bring a guest. This approach maintains a level of formality while still extending the invitation to a plus one.

"Mr. Smith and Guest"

A straightforward way to indicate a plus one is to include "and Guest" after the guest's name. This can be done on either the outer or inner envelope, depending on your preference and the format of your invitation.

"Mr. Smith" with a note inside

If you prefer a more discreet approach, you can simply address the invitation to the primary guest and include a note inside, such as with the RSVP card, indicating that they are invited to bring a plus one.

Remember, it is ultimately your decision whether to offer plus ones, and you can be selective about who you extend this invitation to. Consider your budget, the dynamics of your guest list, and your vision for your wedding day when making these decisions.

Plus one on the inner envelope

The outer envelope of a wedding invitation is typically formal and should include the recipient's full name and title. The inner envelope is more informal and allows for a more casual tone. When addressing a plus-one on the inner envelope, there are a few options to consider:

Using "and Guest"

The most common way to indicate a plus-one on the inner envelope is to use the phrase "and Guest". For example, if you are inviting Mr. Sam Smith, the outer envelope would be formal and addressed to "Mr. Sam Smith". The inner envelope would then be less formal and can be addressed to "Mr. Smith and Guest". This approach clearly communicates that the invitation includes a plus-one without needing to know the name of the guest in advance.

Using "Plus One" or "Invited Guest"

Another option is to use the phrases "Plus One" or "Invited Guest" on the inner envelope. For instance, if inviting Ms. Ali Johnson, the outer envelope could be addressed to "Ms. Ali Johnson". The inner envelope would then include her name, followed by "and Plus One" or "and Invited Guest". This approach provides a clear indication of the plus-one without using the word "Guest".

Adding a Note

Instead of including "and Guest" on the inner envelope, you can add a handwritten note on the invitation card or at the bottom or back of the invitation. This note can simply state, "You are invited to bring a guest" or "You are invited to bring a plus one". This approach allows for a more discreet way of offering a plus-one without it being the first thing the recipient sees when they open the envelope.

Addressing the Guest Directly

If you know the name of the plus-one, you can address them directly on the inner envelope. For example, if Mr. Smith is bringing Ms. Jane Doe, the inner envelope could be addressed to "Mr. Smith and Ms. Doe". This approach is more personalised and acknowledges the plus-one by name, making them feel welcomed and included.

Remember, the inner envelope is more flexible and informal, so you can choose the option that best suits your style and the tone you wish to set for your wedding.

Mx. Sam Li and Guest

When addressing a wedding invitation to someone with an unknown plus one, it is common to write the name of the primary guest and then "and Guest". For example, in the case of "Mx. Sam Li and Guest", this would be the correct format for the outer envelope. On the inner envelope, you can simply write "Sam Li and Guest".

It is also possible to write a note on the invitation, such as "You are invited to bring a guest" or "You are invited to bring a plus one". This can be included on the back of the invitation or at the bottom of the card.

If you are using only one envelope, be sure to clearly state all invited parties on the front, including any plus ones.

It is worth noting that the "and Guest" or "plus one" does not need to be included on the outer envelope. However, it is important to include the name of the guest you are inviting to make it clear that the invitation is directed towards them.

"Mx. Sam Li

You are invited to [event name]

[Date, time, location, and any other details]

You are invited to bring a guest."

Mr. and Mrs. John Rivera

When addressing a wedding invitation to a married couple, it is customary to put their names on the same line. If they have different last names, list the person you are closest with first, or go in alphabetical order. If one person has taken the other's name, the invitation can be addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. [name of person whose surname the couple shares]".

For example, if you are inviting a couple with the same last name, the outer envelope can be addressed to:

> Mr. John and Mrs. Samantha Rivera

> Mr. and Mrs. John Rivera

The inner envelope can then be addressed more informally to:

> Mr. and Mrs. Rivera

If you are inviting a couple with different last names, the outer envelope can be addressed to:

> Mr. John Rivera and Mrs. Samantha Smith

> Mr. and Mrs. John Rivera

The inner envelope can again be addressed more informally to:

> Mr. Rivera and Mrs. Smith

If you would like to invite Mr. and Mrs. John Rivera and allow them to bring a plus-one, you can address the outer envelope to:

> Mr. and Mrs. John Rivera and Guest

> Mr. and Mrs. Rivera and Guest

You can then change the "plus-one" to the guest's name on the seating chart and escort cards. Alternatively, you can address the invitation to Mr. and Mrs. John Rivera and add a note at the bottom of the card or on the back of the invitation saying, "You are invited to bring a guest" or "You are invited to bring a plus one".

Frequently asked questions