EnchantedSage's advice column

I received a baby shower invitation today, and I plan on going, but there is no "please RSVP" on the invite. Tt saiys "regrets only" and then has a phone number. I assume that this means to only "rsvp" if you CAN'T go. Am I correct?

Also, do you think it would be strange if I brought 2 friends with me? The pregnant woman is actually a former teacher of mine (and the two people I'd like to bring), and when I attended her wedding a few years ago I felt sort of awkward because I didn't really know anyone there (I was the only student there because I was really close to her - she was like a big sister to me). She had told me afterwords that I could have brought a friend or two with me to the wedding.
I wouldn't doubt that I'd be the only student there (I've actually graduated high school already...)
I would just ask her, but there are a few reasons I can't.
I would just invite one of the two girls I want to (the other can be a tad obnoxious when excited - she's very, very perky) but it's one of those situations where you can't invite one without the other. Again, too much detail to get into it.

Basically, what is the ettiquette for bringing 1-2 friend with you to a shower where you would otherwise not know anybody, and what is the RSVP ettiquette when it says "regrets only"... does that mean only if you don't plan on attending?

Thank you tons and sorry for the crazy length!

The "regrets" question seems to have been accurately addressed, so I will move on to the ettiquette of bringing uninvited guests.

I'm sorry to say, that it is not appropriate to bring uninvited guests to a function where formal invitations were issued, especially since the invitation did not specificy you and a guest or guests.

A host for such an event makes plans i.e. food, drinks, seating, etc. based on how many people have been invited. In addition, if this party is being held in someone's home, then it is inappropriate to assume that you can bring uninvited people into their personal space.

I completely understand not wanting to attend an event where you don't know someone and wanting to bring along friends. The host may be happy to allow you to do so, but you should certainly give her the courtesy of making that decision. A quick phone call to the host should clear this up easily. Best of luck to you,

Kind wishes,

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