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'So, Does That Mean I Can Bring Someone?'

A gorgeous wedding invitation has arrived in the mail and yes—you do want to go! But that invitation may have brought with it questions beyond the obvious one of whether or not you'll attend: what should you wear; who can you bring? To answer these questions and more, we've asked an expert for you: Chelsea Suddes, founder of Pearl Weddings & Events. Suddes has helped plan weddings along the Connecticut shoreline and beyond, including a recent wedding at the Madison Beach Hotel that was featured on the cover of The Connecticut Bride. Below are her responses to commonly asked questions.

When should I RSVP?

The sooner the better. I always recommend responding to the RSVP as soon as you get the invitation suite. So often wedding invitations go on the refrigerator and although the wedding is not forgotten, responding might be!

If you cannot respond right away, I suggest setting a calendar reminder a week before the RSVP due date. That way you get your response in the mail and back to the couple by the time they are due.

What should I bring as a gift?

Here are the two best options for giving a wedding gift.

First, get the couple something from their wedding registry. Most couples will provide the store location in which they have registered. You can go into the store or online to look up their name and purchase them a gift right from their registry.

The second option is to gift the couple money. When giving money, you are either contributing to their beautiful wedding or their honeymoon. When deciding on how much you should give, the best way to calculate an appropriate price would be to cover the expected cost of your meal. Today the average cost for a wedding meal is around $100 to $150 per person for a seated four-course meal with an open bar.

Is it OK if I bring a plus-one?

Only if you were given the option to bring a plus-one.

Wondering how to know if you were given a plus-one? The invitation will be very clear—it will be addressed to you "and guest," and if you are choosing a meal you will have the ability to write in two different meals.

The couple has carefully chosen their guests, the head count, and the seating chart. If you were not given a plus-one, do not be concerned, it might be the perfect opportunity to meet someone new! The couple will put you at a table where your personality will thrive. They love you and they want you to enjoy yourself.

What should I wear?

The question always remains: Is the wedding casual, business casual, or black tie? You can get a feel of what the style or theme of the wedding will be based on the location of the venue and the invitation.

If the invitation doesn't give you an idea, then I suggest googling the wedding venue. The venue's website might address the required attire, or you should be able to interpret the vibe of the venue.

If you are still unsure, then it doesn't hurt to ask the couple! They will happily give you a recommendation, so you are comfortable with choosing an outfit perfect for their special day.

For more information about Pearl Wedding & Events, call 860-966-0065 or visit www.pearlweddingsandevents.com.