I can only speak from my experiences.

I have been 'the guest' as well as the '& escort'.

For being the one asking I have done it inside and outside my congregation, I am just upfront about it, "I have this event & I need to bring a date, it'll be fun, wanna go?" I keep it light, no relationship type talk. Never had a problem, plus it keeps the stalkers away (i.e. NO, I can't dance with you my date will be right back)!

The flip side, to be asked, the golden rule applies. I have been asked in a similar manner as above, gone and had a blast No pressure as long as you keep it that way.

I have never been accused of being a tease(at least in this type of thing). Yet I don't treat them like a buddy either, I open doors, we go for little walks to get some air, offer my coat etc. It is part of being a gentleman for the evening, your dressed up, more rules of decorum apply.

So bring who you want to.

The caveat being YMMV.