Etiquette Q&A: "Who Gets a Plus One?"

Editor-in-chief Diane Forden answers one reader's biggest etiquette question.

Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

Q: My fiancé and his family think we should invite everyone to the wedding with a guest. What's the rule?

A: You needn't invite every single person to your wedding with a guest. In fact, most couples today don't —  unless they have an unlimited budget. You should, however, include partners of the following people:

► Everyone who is married (even if you don't know their spouse)
► Couples who are engaged
► Couples who are living together
► Guests who have had a steady significant other for so long that it would seem awkward not to include their partners.

The last instance is a judgment call, but in most cases, your gut will tell you what to do.

—Diane Forden