Oh the joys of being single. We get invited to parties, holiday dinners, work parties, church events, weddings, etc. and we get to go ALONE…if you are lucky you have a friend you can bring but some of these events you can’t or no one is available or you just don’t want to torture anyone with that.
So what is a singelton to do?
I’m pretty good at going to things by myself…although as introvert I’m not very good at the whole mingling and interacting with people…so take my advice with a grain of salt.
1. Find the food. The only reason to go to these events is hello free food and a night you don’t have to cook! This can also be a good conversation starter. “Did you have any of the dumplings? No? Go get some they are to die for!”
2. Depending on the kind of event it is you may know some people in attendance. If you do search for that person and start a conversation. I go to Theology on Tap a few times a year and while I show up alone there are usually people there that I have met at previous events and I’m able to sit with them and chat a bit before and after the speaker.
3. DO NOT bring up the topic of your singleness. Just avoid it altogether. No need to draw attention to the fact that you are STILL single, all guys are jerks, and that you are at this family function ALONE. (if they bring it up just politely say you are keeping your options opened and quickly change the topic).
4. Wear a fake engagement ring. Hey I never said I was serious about these tips. I know girls that will do this especially when they go to sketchy places like clubs or bars. Keeps the crazies away and hey you may never see these people again they don’t need to know that your fiance Gabe isn’t really a photographer in France.
In the end we have to do what makes us feel comfortable. If you really feel out of place you can always leave early or decide not to go at all. But please don’t avoid every awkward event it gets really lonely hanging out with your TV on Saturday night. So the best advice is to pick and choose the events you attend and try and attend as many as you can and when you can bring a friend.
I loved your list of tips! And confession… I actually have a fake engagement ring that I’ve worn at work before which is terrible I know, but it really has helped eliminate awkward questions like, “So, I’ve really enjoyed the tips you’ve given me on losing weight, can I take you for dinner this weekend?” So. awkward. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season! 🙂
Great tips, Beth Anne! I love the ones about food (don’t forget the drinks!) I’ve never done this myself, but have recently thought that learning how to mix a couple drinks might be a good way to interact with people. Or, as I have done, is to come up with a quirky party idea (Advent Eve!) that isn’t so expected and host. Ergo, always busy with something and by definition, sure to make the rounds, and still have an excuse for a quick exit from conversation that’s turned to my state in life. 🙂
Britt @ Proverbial GIrlfriend recently posted…NAS: Surviving Events/Parties as a Singleton