Additional Coverage:
- My brother didn’t give me a plus-one for his wedding. I was upset at first, but I’m actually so relieved I went alone. (businessinsider.com)
Being Single at a Wedding: A Blessing in Disguise?
I was thrilled when my younger brother announced his wedding. He’d found a wonderful partner, and their relationship was truly inspiring.
As a bridesmaid and designated speech-giver, I was excited to be part of their special day. There was just one small hitch: no plus-ones for single guests.
Ouch.
As a divorcée, I understood the financial pressures of weddings. I hadn’t offered plus-ones at my own wedding for that very reason.
Still, a pang of hypocrisy accompanied the sting of not being able to bring a date. Attending weddings solo since my divorce had been a bit of a sore spot, especially surrounded by happy couples.
I anticipated this family wedding, with all my married cousins present, would amplify that feeling. Ironically, I’d actually started seeing someone who wanted to come.
Despite my initial disappointment, I respected the couple’s decision and attended the wedding alone. As it turns out, that was the best decision.
The guy I was seeing proved to be, well, less than ideal. Let’s just say a string of embarrassing public incidents shortly after the wedding led to a swift breakup.
In hindsight, dodging that bullet was a huge relief. Had he come to the wedding, I likely would have spent the night babysitting him instead of celebrating with my brother.
I shuddered to think of the potential for embarrassment or disruptions. Now, I’m incredibly grateful he’s not in any wedding photos, and I was able to focus on the truly important people present.
This entire experience has shifted my perspective. Instead of feeling sorry for myself as the single guest, I focused on the beautiful, healthy relationship my brother and sister-in-law share.
Their example, and this near-miss with a disastrous plus-one, prompted me to re-evaluate my own relationship patterns. I’m working on making healthier choices and embracing my single status with greater comfort and confidence.
The biggest lesson? I’ve raised my standards. My future plus-one will be someone I’m proud to bring to a wedding, someone the happy couple would be thrilled to welcome by name.