are you booking the award out of your account (with silver status) or out of hers?

if out of yours, benefits from your silver status (bag, E+, etc) *should* be inherited by the person flying the ticket.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/unite...t-inherit.html

If that doesn't happen, E+ problem can be circumvented by calling at your E+ window (T-24) to request E+ seats for your companion on a different PNR and requesting your E+ seat simultaneously.

another option you could consider is to book two one ways -- one with miles for both of you, and one with $$ for both of you. since domestic fares are always 1/2 the round trip for a one way, it would be the same net spend on $$ and miles and you'd be on the same PNRs. however, you'd then give up the miles earning on the return flight for your own status renewal conquest.

sorry, i didnt notice you already had your one way outbound trip booked when i suggested the above.