How to handle plus-ones at a small wedding?

I'd keep it simple and just decide upfront whether you're offering them or not. If you want to limit numbers, it's totally fine to specify "no plus-ones" on the invite, or maybe only offer them to people in serious relationships. The key is being consistent so nobody feels singled out - I've seen way more drama from inconsistent policies than from just having a straightforward rule everyone knows about.

You guys got it right about being upfront - that's honestly the move. I've picked up plenty of wedding guests in my taxi over the years and heard the horror stories from people who didn't set boundaries early. It gets messy when people assume they can bring someone and then you have to tell them no later. Super awkward.

From a practical standpoint, think about your actual headcount and budget first. Small weddings are usually intimate for a reason, right? Once you know your limit, just be direct on the invite. You don't need some long explanation - just put on there whether plus-ones are included or not. If you want to give them to some people but not others (like only for people in relationships), you can do that too, just make it clear. Something like "we'd love to have [guest] plus one guest" on their specific invite works fine.

One thing I'd suggest from my experience - if you're saying no plus-ones, maybe mention it when you're inviting people personally if you can, or send a quick text/email to anyone who might ask before they do. Takes like two minutes and saves way more awkwardness down the road. People generally don't mind as long as they know what the deal is from the jump. The real problem starts when folks are left guessing or thinking the rules might be flexible.