Here’s how to make your way through a jam-packed nuptial schedule…solo.
And we’re back! It’s been a long winter, and it’s safe to say we’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. Summer is almost here, and that means we get to kick back, relax, and attend a ton of weddings. These events are so special, but if you’re single, they can be intimidating. And asking for a plus-one isn’t exactly kosher. Here are some tips to help you get through wedding season when you’re on your own.
BY: Lindsay Metselaar
Identify Your People
Chances are, you know at least one other person there. Identify who that person is, and make sure you feel comfortable enough to have him or her as your home base, or better yet, your wingman. If you don’t know anyone else there, try to identify another guest who is attending alone. I guarantee he is hoping to have a buddy, too.
Lean Into Your Outgoing Side
Weddings are not the time to be shy! Even if you’re not an outgoing person, it’s crucial to fake it till you make it. Use easy and common icebreakers, like “So how do you know the couple?” Or maybe you can compliment someone at the wedding party on their speech. People are usually in good moods at weddings and are likely to want to chat.
Don’t Overdo the Open Bar
One of the perks of a wedding is that there’s usually an open bar. This is obviously exciting, but you don’t want to lean on alcohol too hard as a crutch. You never know who you could meet, and being too inebriated could possibly cloud your judgment. Pace yourself!
Talk to Your Table Mates
Chances are that the couple getting married put a lot of thought into where to seat you. Weddings are not usually casual events, and it’s likely they sat you at a table of people who they thought you would hit it off with. Whether these people are coupled off or not, being in such close proximity is a great way to get to know them and maybe even make some new friends.
Leave When You Want
In general, we all overthink things. And one of those things is that everyone notices when you leave the party. In reality? No one does. If you’re struggling to socialize, feeling lonely, triggered by thoughts of an ex, or just aren’t having fun, you have every right to leave. Just try to wait as long as you can and get at least one dance with the couple in first.
Whether this is your first wedding post-breakup, or you feel like you’re always the single guest, I promise you it’s only temporary. It means so much to the couple that you’re there, regardless of whether you’re partnered or not.
Attending a wedding solo can be tough, but if you listen to these tips, you’ll be off to a great start. For more, you can follow @wemetatacme on Instagram or listen to “We Met At Acme” wherever you listen to podcasts. Hope to see all of you around the Hamptons soon!
