Summer is here: the season of sunshine and barbecues.  The season, too, of seemingly endless weddings, particularly in your twenties and thirties.  If you’re single, you may not relish the prospect.

What if there was a way to survive wedding season, maybe even enjoy it a little?

1.  Remember it’s an honour to be invited.

Yes, really.  Unless you are a close relative of either the bride or groom, they were not duty-bound to include you.  They want you there: they value your friendship and the place you have in their lives.  This, surely, is worth celebrating.

2.  Pamper yourself.

Have you been wanting to get a manicure, or perhaps highlights in your hair? Here is your opportunity.  If budget allows and you like shopping, it’s also a great opportunity to add to your wardrobe.  Take pleasure in dressing up and looking beautiful. 

3.  Wear comfortable shoes.

Nothing breeds self-pity like physical pain. 

4.  Focus on the positives.

Take in your surroundings.  Savour the wine.  Revel in the quantity and quality of the food. 

5.  Meet people.

In everyone’s circle of friends, there are some fascinating eccentrics.  There are people with great stories, who'll be thrilled with the opportunity of telling them to a new audience.  Maybe you’re writing a novel, and one of them will inspire you as a potential character.  Who knows, there may even be minor celebrities, future politicians, or someone who shares your love of rare seashells or German embroidery.

6.  Go easy on the drinking.

I know it’s tempting to overdo it when the wine is so tasty and so plentiful.  But alcohol is a depressant, and if you’re struggling to hold it together, it won’t help.  Trust me.  

7.  Reward yourself.

Plan for this before the wedding: what film have you wanted to see for a long time? What bubble bath would you like to try? What chocolate? Go out and splurge, so that when you return home, your reward will be awaiting you.

Allow yourself to be surprised: perhaps this summer has potential after all. 

This content was provided by one of our users, brusselsclaire