Social solutions for singles

4th Jun 2012

Whether you find yourself suddenly single or have been enjoying your own company for a while, there are situations which arise where you may need a little guidance. Debbie answers five simple questions to help you avoid common singles social faux pas.

The intricacies of social etiquette are enough to bamboozle the best of us, but when you’re single, there can be a whole new set of rules to learn. Here are five simple tips to help you navigate the minefield of modern day social life.

Q. Polly
I have been invited to my niece’s wedding and the invitation includes a plus one. I am not dating anyone at the moment, but as I won’t know many people attending, I am keen to take someone with me. Is this acceptable?

A. This is quite common and, as I’m sure your family are more than aware of your single status, they would be quite happy for you to bring a friend. You can avoid any awkwardness by popping a hand-written note in along with your acceptance card, simply explaining you are bringing a friend and their name is… This will also help your niece with her seating plan and writing place cards – no-one wants to be referred to as someone’s plus one.

Q. Tony
I have been seeing a lovely woman for some time, but haven’t really told many people about her. I have received an invite to a friend’s 60^th birthday, but it is just addressed to me, no mention of a partner. I would dearly love for her to accompany me so should I just take her along?

A. I don’t think turning up unannounced with a new partner is the best way to endear yourself to your friends. By your own admission, you haven’t mentioned to many people that you have a new lady in your life, so how do you expect your friend to know you would like to bring someone with you? A phone call to your friend is the best way to solve the issue. Explain that you are very much looking forward to the party and would like to bring someone with you. However, you should consider two things: this is your friend’s 60^th birthday and he may not want to be upstaged by your new relationship and, there may be a limited guest list due to venue size or budget. So if the answer is no, go along and enjoy your evening with friends, then perhaps arrange a get-together of your own to introduce your new partner to your friends.

Click NEXT to discover how to deal with friends setting you up, unwanted Facebook friends and how to have coffee without it being a 'date'.

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Actual Cat
17th Feb 2012
3:44pm

At my parents' 30th wedding anniversary, a divorced uncle announced quite formally, mid-dinner, that he was to be remarried which was a surprise to the whole extended family. While we were all delighted that this much loved uncle had found love again, I did feel that the announcement detracted from my mum & dad's celebration. I was only 22 at the time and possibly would feel differently now, but I think Tony should definitely speak to his friend before the 60th party. You never know how people will feel unless you ask.

Zannamarie
17th Feb 2012
5:48pm

Unfortunately there are those who only think of themselves.Why didn't 'much loved divorced uncle" set up his own little party to make this announcement? Too long on his own to be aware? No, here was a captured audience and it seems he was going to make the most of it. Selfish brother.There is always a time and a place to make a dramatic announcement.

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Tags: singles, social, etiquette, facebook, date, how to, being set up, help