it weird to bring my sister as my plus-one to a work gala

[williem]

I'm 32 year old and i work in finance, mostly on side dealing with wealthy clients. A big part of the job is showing up to events and galas dinners, fundraisers, that kind of thing to build relationships and keep clients happy.

There's one gala every summer that's a pretty big deal, black-tie, lots of important clients and firm partners there, and I always get a plus-one invite.
Last year I brought my girlfriend, but we broke up a couple months ago, so this year I don't have an obvious date to bring. I've been going back and forth on asking my sister who is 30 year old instead.

We're close, and she actually works as a client manager for a luxury jewelry brand, so she's used to mingling with wealthy clientele, dressing the part, and holding her own in conversation at this kind of event. It'd also be a solid networking opportunity for her, since the room is full of people in similar circles.

The thing is, I've never brought her to one of these before it's always been a girlfriend or a colleague. So I'm not sure if bringing a sibling is a normal thing to do, or if it'll look strange since these events tend to have a "plus-one = date" vibe. I don't want it to seem weird to my coworkers or clients, but at the same time she'd genuinely enjoy it and do well there.

Has anyone brought a sibling to something like this before? Does it come across as odd, or am I overthinking it

Not in the slightest

most will presume she’s your girlfriend though if you were there last year with your girlfriend.

tend to have a "plus-one = date" vibe

well your colleagues have been dates

No of course not. It’s fine.

Is this in the UK? I work in finance and this kind of thing began to die out even before Covid

Yeah that's awkward

I agree!! But it's kinda different with my sister

Not odd at all. I have taken my mom to events and dinners.

Yeah, it's still very common in my circle. Although we're Dutch, I'd say galas are actually more common in the Netherlands than they are here.

By the way, where do you work?

It’s fine, my dd is taking me, mum to an event.

Why? You’re 32 not 12.

Let me introduce my sister to you….

London

This is all a bit boarding school 15 year old boy.

Dont be silly. You’re a 32 year old finance professional and your adult sister is accompanying you to the work event.

I have taken my sister as a plus one ! It worked very well and no one batted an eyelid

Same here!!

So take it from someone who has about 18 years more experience in the industry than you… no one is going to give a flying fig if you turn up with your sister.

In fact… this would be the same no matter the industry.

Take her. Obviously. No one will care or even be interested.

and maybe get some self confidence therapy because for an adult woman a professional networking role to be worrying about this? Is a sign that you don’t feel very sure of yourself at all @williem