Social Anxiety, Edibles, and Someone Else’s Family: A Wedding Weekend Survival Guide (Part 2)

Turns out the world doesn’t end when you make small talk

Spoiler alert: I survived.

Not only did I survive — I teared up during the ceremony (because duh), had a genuinely good time, and only had to “go get my jacket” (read: hide in the car) once. Honestly, that’s a personal record.

When we first arrived, I felt it — that familiar wave of “you don’t belong here.” But it passed. I let it. I took a breath, reminded myself I’m allowed to exist in this space, and eventually, I did.

The biggest growth moment?

I wanted to post some of the beautiful photos I captured, but I needed the bride’s permission. Which meant… I had to go talk to her.

Cue the social anxiety drumroll.

But I didn’t go it alone. Jen, my ever-steady nudge, came with me. And you know what? The bride was totally cool with it. We even chatted about The Purple Owl. I told her what the blog is about, and she was into it. I asked for a follow (yup, pushed myself that far), and whether or not she clicks “follow,” I’m proud of myself for putting it out there.

Here’s the real win:

I ended up knowing more than three people. I talked to way more than that. And I didn’t overshare, say anything weird, or wake up the next morning replaying every conversation with a cringe hangover.

This was growth in action.

Not loud, flashy growth. Not viral-moment growth.

Just quiet, steady, “hey maybe I can do this” kind of growth.

And for someone who’s spent years sitting in the corner avoiding eye contact? That’s huge.

To anyone else navigating social situations with anxiety, here’s my takeaway:

Take the edible if it helps. Bring your support person. Escape to the car if you need to. But then come back in. Re-enter. Try again. That’s where the magic happens.

Because building trust in yourself isn’t a one-time decision — it’s a thousand tiny, awkward, brave ones.

By: Jess E