Should you give a plus-one to a guest who is single?

Short answer

Not automatically. A plus-one is a courtesy, not an obligation, and you may choose to offer it only to those in a relationship or those travelling alone.

There is no rule that every single guest must bring a date. Your wedding is your day, and you are allowed to keep the guest list to people you know and want there. Many couples decide that plus-ones go to partners they know, or to guests who are travelling from far away and would otherwise be alone.

If you do offer a plus-one, be consistent so no one feels singled out. You might say in your short answer that you are unable to accommodate every date due to venue or budget limits. This is honest and kind.

Consider these points when deciding:

Is the guest in a long-term relationship? You may prefer to invite their partner by name.
Will they travel alone and not know anyone else? A plus-one can make the evening more comfortable for them.
Is the venue small or the budget tight? It is fair to limit dates and explain why.

If you decline, send the invitation to the individual only and do not write 'and guest' on the envelope. If a guest asks, reply politely and state that you have kept the day to invited guests only. Some guests may be disappointed, but clear boundaries now avoid awkwardness later.