A Wedding Plus-One: Your Guide To Acing It

Being a date to a wedding can be a tricky situation. If you're the one doing the inviting, it's important to be clear about whether or not the invitation is romantic in nature. If you're not interested in your date romantically, make sure they know it's not a date, unless you want it to be. It's also important to choose your date wisely; they should be someone special to you, and you should be prepared to take care of them throughout the wedding. If you're the plus-one, be mindful of your date's expectations and be prepared to spend a lot of time with them.

Make your intentions clear to your date

If you are taking someone as your date to a wedding, it is important to be clear about your intentions. If you don't want it to be a date, you need to communicate this clearly, otherwise, your date may assume there is romantic interest. It is also important to remember that bringing someone as your date to a wedding is a big deal and a responsibility. It is not just about having a date to the wedding, but also about ensuring that your date feels included and cared for.

Be Direct

Being direct is the best way to ensure your date knows your intentions. If you are interested in them romantically, let them know. This will help to avoid any confusion or mixed signals. For example, you could say something like, "I really like spending time with you and I think you're great. I'm interested in seeing where this could go. Would you like to be exclusive?" This will help to establish a mutual understanding and set expectations for the relationship.

Communicate Your Boundaries

Discussing your boundaries is an important part of making your intentions clear. Let your date know what you are comfortable and not comfortable with. For example, if you are not interested in a physical relationship until marriage, it is important to communicate this early on. This will help your date understand your values and expectations.

Be Assertive

Taking a passive approach is unlikely to get you what you want. Being assertive, while still respecting your date's feelings, is key. This means clearly communicating what you want and need from the relationship. For example, if you want to make the relationship official and exclusive, ask them how they feel about that idea. This will help to ensure that you are both on the same page.

Avoid Sending Mixed Signals

If you are not interested in your date romantically, it is important to avoid sending mixed signals. This includes flirting, giving excessive compliments, or engaging in behaviours that could be interpreted as romantic interest. Be mindful of your actions and how they might be perceived to avoid leading your date on.

Discuss Relationship Expectations

Talking about what you both want and need from the relationship is crucial. This includes discussing your short-term and long-term goals, as well as any deal breakers you may have. For example, if you are looking for a serious, committed relationship, let your date know. This will help to ensure that you are both aligned and working towards the same goals.

Remember, making your intentions clear is about honest and open communication. It is important to respect your date's feelings and be willing to listen to their perspective as well. This will help to build a foundation of trust and understanding in the relationship.

Be attentive to your date

Being attentive to your date is crucial when you are a date to a wedding. Here are some tips to ensure you are being attentive and thoughtful:

First and foremost, communication is key. Be clear about your intentions and expectations from the outset. If you want your date to know that this is a romantic outing, make sure they understand that. On the other hand, if this is purely platonic, communicate that as well to avoid any confusion or misaligned expectations. This will help set the tone for the wedding and ensure your date is comfortable and aware of your intentions.

Treat your date with care and consideration throughout the wedding. Avoid leaving them alone for extended periods, especially if they don't know many people at the event. Introduce them to your friends and include them in conversations and activities. It's important that they feel welcomed and integrated into the celebration. Be mindful of their needs and comfort, especially if they are feeling overwhelmed or out of place.

Be mindful of your date's interests and preferences. For example, if they are not a fan of dancing, don't force them onto the dance floor. Instead, suggest other activities or find a comfortable spot where you can chat and enjoy each other's company. If they are keen on dancing, make sure you join them! It's important to be respectful and accommodating of their interests, even if they differ from your own.

Be financially considerate. Your date is doing you a favour by accompanying you to the wedding, so don't burden them with excessive expenses. Offer to cover their costs, such as transportation, accommodation, or even a portion of the gift. While they may politely decline, showing that you are willing to contribute will be appreciated.

Finally, be attentive to their needs throughout the wedding. Check in with them regularly to ensure they are enjoying themselves and feeling included. Be mindful of their comfort levels, and if they need a break or a change of scenery, accommodate their request as best you can. By being considerate and thoughtful, you can ensure your date feels valued and appreciated.

Don't invite someone you barely know

When you receive a plus-one invitation to a wedding, it is important to carefully consider who you will bring. Avoid inviting someone you barely know or have only been on one date with. The person you bring as your date may not be special to the bride or groom, but they should be special to you. Ask yourself: would you bring this person to a funeral to provide comfort and support? If the answer is no, then they shouldn't be your plus-one at the wedding.

Bringing someone you barely know can create an awkward dynamic, especially if they are expecting a romantic date. Unless you specifically state otherwise, your date may assume that this is a romantic gesture. To avoid any confusion or hurt feelings, be clear about your intentions from the start. If you are interested in keeping things casual, make sure they know it's not a date.

Additionally, consider the practical aspects of bringing a plus-one. A wedding date is a responsibility, and you should be prepared to nurture and care for them throughout the event. Don't leave them alone at the bar while you go dancing with your friends. Make sure they feel included and introduce them to other guests. It's also a good idea to establish their comfort level with dancing beforehand, as you don't want to leave them alone while you hit the dance floor.

In conclusion, when deciding on a plus-one for a wedding, avoid inviting someone you barely know. Choose someone who is special to you and with whom you have a close connection. Be clear about your intentions to avoid any confusion, and be prepared to spend time with them throughout the event.

Don't expect them to pay

When you are a date at a wedding, it is important to remember that your date is doing you a favour by accompanying you to an event where they likely do not know anyone. As such, it is unfair to expect them to pay for anything, be it a gift, hotel accommodations, or anything else. They are already spending their time and energy to be your plus-one, and it is important to be grateful for that.

If your date offers to pay for something, you can accept their offer, but you should never expect or pressure them to do so. It is also a nice gesture to treat your date to something, especially if you are the one who invited them to the wedding. This could be something like a drink at the bar or a meal at the reception.

If you are the date of someone at a wedding, remember that you are doing them a favour by accompanying them, and you are not obligated to pay for anything. However, if you would like to treat your date to something, that can be a nice gesture, especially if they have gone out of their way to make you feel included and welcomed at the wedding.

Whether you are the date or the person with the plus-one, it is important to have open and honest communication about expectations around money and gifts. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and avoid any potential misunderstandings or hard feelings.

Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the wedding and each other's company!

Make sure they're comfortable dancing

Dancing is a big part of weddings, and if you're a guest, you'll no doubt want to look great on the dance floor. Here are some tips to make sure you're comfortable dancing at a wedding:

Choose the Right Song

If you're the one getting married, choose a song that has meaning to you and your partner. It could be a sentimental melody, a ballad you both love, or a song that's just fun and upbeat. Make sure it's something you can dance to comfortably, and keep it between 2.5 and 3 minutes long.

Take Some Dance Lessons

Consider taking some wedding dance lessons in the weeks leading up to the big day. You can find a local instructor or try online lessons. Learning a few basic moves will boost your confidence and make all the difference when it's time to hit the dance floor.

Keep it Short and Sweet

If you're doing a first dance as newlyweds, keep it short and sweet. You don't want to tire yourselves out or lose your guests' interest. A short dance will also be less stressful if you're feeling nervous about performing in front of everyone.

Consider Your Outfit and Shoes

If you plan to dance to upbeat music, make sure your outfit and shoes are comfortable and won't restrict your movements. You don't want your dress or suit getting in the way or entangled in your legs.

Relax and Enjoy Yourself

Remember, dancing at a wedding should be fun! Relax, smile, and be in the moment. Whether you're a guest or the couple of honour, don't worry too much about looking perfect. Just move your body and enjoy the music.

Frequently asked questions