Destination weddings are a fabulous way to celebrate love, adventure, and new beginnings. But while they offer a unique experience for your guests, they also come with their own set of challenges—especially for your single friends who might be facing the prospect of traveling alone. Here’s why you might want to consider allowing single guests to bring a plus one, and how to handle it with poise and grace.
Reasons to Give Single Guests a Plus One for your Destination Wedding
1. No One Wants to Travel Alone
Traveling solo can be daunting, especially when the destination is far away or unfamiliar. By allowing your single guests to bring a plus one, you’re giving them the chance to share the experience with someone else, making the trip more enjoyable.
2. Financial Benefits for the guest
Most all-inclusive resorts operate on a double occupancy pricing model meaning on person in a room is as much as two people. However, if they bring someone along, they can split the cost, making it more affordable for them and ensuring they’re more likely to attend your wedding.
3. A Happier Guest List
A happy guest is a good guest! By allowing your single friends to bring a plus one, you’re showing them that you’ve considered their comfort and enjoyment. This small gesture can go a long way in making everyone feel included and valued.
Navigating the Invitation Dynamics
While it’s wonderful to extend the option of a plus one, it’s completely okay to set boundaries to maintain your guest list size and manage costs.
Not All Plus Ones Need to Attend Your Wedding
If your venue has a strict capacity, or you’re keen to keep the wedding ceremony intimate, you can choose to limit the actual wedding invitations to your core guest list. Single guests can still bring a plus one for the trip, but the additional person won’t attend the ceremony or reception or wedding events. Communication is key here—make sure your invitations and RSVPs are clear about who is invited to which parts of the celebration.
Proper Etiquette for Adding a Plus One
When allowing single guests to add a plus one, consider including a note on the invitation or a follow-up email that outlines your expectations. Here are some pointers to ensure smooth sailing:
Clarify Your Intentions: Clearly state that the plus one is welcome to join for the travel and accommodation but may not be part of the wedding day events.
Encourage Close Relationships: Politely suggest that the plus one be someone they have a close relationship with (a good friend, family member, or significant other) rather than a casual acquaintance.
Respect Your Decision: If you’re firm on the plus one not attending the wedding ceremony or reception, make sure to communicate that kindly but firmly. Most guests will understand and appreciate your transparency.
Here is some verbiage that you can use and can send via email or as an insert in to your wedding invitation for those guests that you would like to give the option of a plus one to; that won't be attending the festivities.: We are thrilled to have you join us for our special day in beautiful XXXXXX! we welcome you to invite a plus one to enjoy the destination and hotel with you, without them attending the wedding events. While we'd love to welcome everyone to our wedding ceremony and reception, due to guest list limitations and event constraints, we are only accommodating primary invitees. We appreciate your understanding and can't wait to celebrate with you!
Allowing single guests to bring a plus one to your destination wedding can greatly enhance their experience, make travel more affordable, and contribute to a happier and more engaged guest list. While managing the guest list and setting boundaries can be tricky, clear communication and thoughtful consideration can ensure everyone has a memorable time.
Ready to make your destination wedding an unforgettable event for everyone? Start planning now, and don't forget to book a call with our Destination Wedding Planning experts for personalized advice and tips at
Comments