Proper Etiquette

It is surprising how many etiquette questions I am asked and then berated for the answers.
I don't make up the answers, couples, I am just following the rules. Can the rules be broken? Yes, but know what they are first before you break them. Then, at least, you are breaking them with good intentions and not out of ignorance.

Case in point---many couples ask me if it is alright to exclude a significant other on an invitation if they don't like each other or the guest list is getting too long. The correct answer? No.
It is considered in very poor taste and a breach of etiquette to invite one half of a couple and not the other, no matter how much you may not get along or need to cut the guest list. You can cut Aunt Emma that you haven't seen or heard from in over 6 years, but not the significant other of your mother, even if he might be of questionable character.

If the couple is living together or has significant history together (meaning an exclusive relationship for a year), then they should be invited and included on the invitation. If they have just met, are not co-habitating, not engaged or have history under a year together, then, yes, you don't have to include them. But be prepared for the inevitable "may I invite a guest?" question that is sure to come.

Knowing the rules is important. Breaking them is your call. Just make sure that the reason you are breaking etiquette rules is out of necessity and not spite. A wedding celebration is no place
to air grievances, start a battle ground, or prove that you are superior.