Wedding Etiquette On Bringing A Date

Proper etiquette dictates it be noted on the envelope to the invitation if a guest is invited. For instance, the invitation should be addressed to "Mr. Joseph Smith and Guest" if Mr. Smith is allowed a date. If not, only the name of the invited will be written. Technically, the only time a significant other is invited is if the couple is married, engaged or living together.

Times being what that are, however, not everyone is well versed in matters of etiquette, and just because it's not indicated on the envelope doesn't mean you're not welcome to bring a guest (but it's usually a good indication). So, do you assume guests are invited and show up with someone on your arm? Absolutely not. Since caterers charge by the head, the last thing you want to do is bring someone who is uninvited. There may not be enough chairs at your table or enough food prepared ahead of time, and most important, your hosts will most likely have to pay cash on the day of the event for any extra uninvited bodies. That's the last thing the happy couple or parents of the bride should have to worry about on this glorious occasion.

If you'd like to bring a guest but are unsure of whether you're able to do so, just ask. Ask the parents of either the bride or groom, others who are close to the betrothed such as good friends or relatives, or, if no one else seems to know the answer, ask the bride and groom themselves. If it's confirmed no guests are allowed, don't argue or cause a tense situation. The bride and groom are stressed enough and whether or not you're properly escorted to their wedding is the least of their worries. In addition, if guests are invited and you only RSVPed for yourself, it's unacceptable to bring a last minute escort for the same reasons as noted above.

If a guest is allowed, it's best to bring someone who will not only be familiar with the bride and groom, but will also know others attending the reception. Weddings are not for casual acquaintances. If your date doesn't know anyone at your table, be sure to make the proper introductions and make her feel welcome and comfortable. Don't leave her alone while you mingle with other guests and don't spend long amounts of time in the bathroom or at the bar. This can create an awkward situation for your escort.

If your guest is someone who is acquainted with the bride or groom, make sure it's not someone with whom either of betrothed shares a negative experience. For instance, it would be in very bad taste to bring a former boyfriend or girlfriend, co-worker or friend of a friend with whom one of the happy couple doesn't get along. You don't want to be responsible for doing anything that can cast a negative light on such a happy occasion. Not only might the day be spoiled for the bride or groom, but it may sully your relationship as well.

When it comes to weddings, there is one major consideration. This day belongs to the bride and groom, and thoughts should be of them. If it's indicated on the invitation that you're allowed to bring a date, then, by all means, do so. Otherwise, it's a good assumption that you're flying solo for this affair. Make sure the guest you bring doesn't do anything to embarrass the happy couple, and if your date doesn't know anyone, be attentive. No matter what the situation, the most important rule is to enjoy yourself because that's what the day is about.