The single girl’s guide to flying solo at weddings

As an almost (but not quite) 30-year-old, I’ve been to my fair share of weddings. As fun as they are — Open bar! Limbo! Random people I haven’t seen in years! — they can also be pretty emotional; and I don’t just mean those feelings of extreme joy you have for the happy couple. I’m talking about feelings of self-doubt and fear for your future as a single girl. Sometimes, you can’t help but feel a tinge of jealousy for those couples in the room, so blissfully in love.

But us single girls need to refocus our attention. This wedding is a celebration, most likely for one of our friends. The fact that they are in love is no reflection on us in any way, and good friends want their friends to be happy! So, if you are anything like me, pick your chin up, Single Gal. Weddings are an opportunity for us.

There is the potential to meet someone new — be it a friend, something a little more, or, who knows, maybe even a new significant other. It’s a chance to get dressed up and feel sexy. A time to connect with friends while catching up and getting down on the dance floor. This is a once in a lifetime event, so get out there and enjoy it! It should be stress-free. After all, you’re not the one who spent months planning it. Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to have a great time.

Look good, feel good

It’s important to walk into the room feeling good, so make sure you wear something that makes you feel beautiful! You should like how you look, because your attitude will reflect negatively if you don’t. A great outfit will make you feel better about your overall self and make all the difference in the kind of night you have.

Meet different types of people

While it’s always a hope to meet someone new in the romantic sense, don’t make that the goal of the evening. Look to meet all different types of people — you may find a guest who is in the same profession as you with some sage advice, or a new friend who shares your Soul Cycle addiction.

Get out on that dance floor

Make sure to dance your ass off. Dancing reduces stress, is a great way to join in and meet new friends, and burns a ton of cals, allowing you to eat whatever you want at the buffet table, sans guilt! If a slow song comes on and you have no one to dance with, look around. Are there any kids? An older relative? If not, take this time to catch your breath from your epic performance of Shout! If you’re feeling uncomfortable, take a trip to the restroom. (You are bound to have to go at sometime, right?)

Hit the bar

Even if you’re not a big drinker or even if you don’t drink at all, head to the bar. There are apt to be other singles hanging around, and if not, just some more people to meet and socialize with. Suggest taking a group shot for insta-comradery (although don’t use this tactic too often or it can backfire), or ask if anyone wants to head to the photo booth. And if all else fails, make friends with the bartender.

For your friends getting married, this is a big night. But as a guest, it’s not anything more than a time to enjoy yourself without any pressure. If you can do this, Congratulations! You have successfully attended the wedding as a single gal.

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