Third-wheeling it? It doesn’t have to be torture! Here’s how to make the most of being friends with a couple.
Establish individual friendships
If you’re only pals with one half of a couple, it can make hanging out with both of them a drag. Make sure to engage with the half of the couple you know the least: talk to him or her about work, about their hobbies and interests, and anything that you might have in common.
It might take some work, but with a bit of effort you’ll probably be able to count them as a friend independent of their partner, which will make hanging out with them together a two-for-one deal.Tell them your dating stories
The fun part of being unattached and spending time with couples is that they’ll look to you for stories – the good, the bad and the ugly – of your single life. Unlike spending time with your other single friends, you get to be the centre of attention while you tell them all about the great dates, bad dates, and downright crazy dates you’re having while they’re stuck doing couple things, like renovating their bathroom.
It’s research
Regardless of how you feel about being single – like it’s the best, most fun time of your life, or a super-depressing period that you can’t wait to end – being around established couples offers a bounty of information that you can use in your own life. Ask yourself, do your friends seem happy? Why or why not? Learn what kind of relationship you want – or definitely don’t want – from whatever they have going on, which will help you in your dating and future relationship life.
Hit them up for a set-up
The best part of coupled-up friends?
They have single friends. Ask your friend’s husband if any of the guys at his office or in his band are nice and available. Or, just show up to their parties in your hottest dress and strike up a conversation with the single guys there, who will likely be just as self-conscious as you are that the majority of the group is already hooked up. Score!Remember – they have each other
Need to bail on brunch at the eleventh hour? Don’t worry about it too much – you’re not going to be leaving anyone alone with their eggs when your plans are with a couple.