How to Attend the Wedding of a Person You Can't Stand

Somehow, it was unavoidable. You received the invitation in the mail, and it's not exactly like you can decline. It may be family, or your co-worker, or even a friend of a friend -- and for whatever reason, you HAVE to go or else it looks bad. The prospect of attending this wedding gives you intense pains resembling that of a hernia, and perhaps you just threw up a teeny bit in your mouth. Well, suck it up and toss that RSVP card in the mail. You're going, and you're also going to ace it.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• something you love to wear
• a trusty friend
• something small for your pocket or purse that will help ease tension

1. Don't go alone. Bring an awesome, intelligent, interesting, fun date. It can even be your own sister. Just make sure it's someone you love hanging out with regardless. Bribe them if you have to.

2. Wear an outfit you LOVE. It will put you in a good mood. Remember not to compete with the bridesmaids, however.

3. Resist the urge to roll your eyes during the event. It will not go unnoticed. This also goes for any defensive or negative body language. Instead of crossing your arms, keep your hands in your pockets. Put a rubbing stone in there if need be. Finger the beads of your necklace. Take a clutch.

4. Do not do anything passive aggressive, like "accidentally" bumping into your object of distaste, or getting a wedding gift you know they'll hate. It will only appear aggressive.

5. When you shake the couple's hands, give a big smile and a firm grip. It helps to be talking about something very positive and happy with your date right before you have to do this so it appears more sincere.

6. For whatever reason you hate this person, remember that this wedding day is their day, it is very special, and if you do anything obnoxious it will be you who looks like the jerk.

7. Every time you have the urge to retch or make a sarcastic comment, immediately say something complimentary instead. "Her dress is gorgeous!" instead of "What a crock of poo" will go a long way. You also never know who will overhear.

Tips & Warnings

• Maintain good posture.
• Focus on the good.
• Leave the reception early if you absolutely have to, but at least wait after a dance or two.
• Do not say anything insincere. You will be transparent.

[ZoeLondon]

on 11/30/2008 You're right. Sometimes you just have to go. I have to attend a wedding for one of my husband's friends, so I'm not spending money on a gift. He is. Yes, I could be doing plenty more enjoyable things that day (like sleeping) but we're trying to go as a couple. It's just a few hours.

[lisaliberty]

on 7/9/2008 True, sometimes people decide to go, though -- they might hate the bride but love the groom too much. This was more for people who decide to go than for those who decide not to, which is fine also.

[MissJollyAngler]

on 7/5/2008 Sorry-I would not waste any time or money on a person I could not stand!!!!Why bother???Just reply to the invite politely and say you can't make it!!!!Spend your time and money on people you LIKE!!!!