My companion was not an MVP, was on a different record and had a different originating city. Despite these facts, I was able to secure bulkhead on the A320 and Row 22 (exit row) on the DC-10 for both of us. The rep couldn't do it automatically, they had to talk with a supervisor and contact "seating" to get it done. This was only done after I politely insisted the (1) MVPs can reserve exit rows in advance (surprised the rep); and (2) we can have one companion sit next to us even if they are on a different PNR (again, surprised the rep). They were not happy to do this but did so anyway after I politely asked them to check with their supervisor.