To RSVP or Not RSVP?: Bridal Party at Work ʕ•ﻌ•`ʔ

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I've been at my current job for over two years.

During these two years, I have noticed that the office LOVES to host parties for anything and everything in our conference rooms ʕ – ᴥ – ʔ. We have had parties for national grilled cheese day, Super Bowl parties, Valentines day parties, Christmas parties, Saint Patrick's day parties, retirement parties, and now a BRIDAL PARTY!

Every single time there is food or an event in the office, you will have a myriad of people walk up to you and ask if you got food or if you are going to come sit with people in the conference room (I usually answer with "oh I got my food already, thanks for asking," or "I'm not hungry right now," or "I think I'm going to stay here").

I go to work to WORK. I find it more of a chore and more stressful for me to go to these constant parties and gatherings. I have tried to sit in the conference room during some of these parties, but find myself stiff, sweaty, and silent. I am overcome with anxiety and I can't relax or speak because my mind is blank. I have given up trying now because it brings so much stress upon myself.

What I am struggling with is should I RSVP to go to this bridal party for even five to ten minutes to show my support for the recently engaged coworker (who I have interacted with multiple times, but don't feel close to)? Or should I honor my feelings and stay firm in my no? I'm recognizing that networking and being there at events is a big part of success in an office, but I just don't think I'm built for it. I can have one on one conversations with people, and am well-liked by most people.

What would you do? ʅʕ•ᴥ•ʔʃ

If you truly do not want to go to the bridal party, I would not force yourself to go. (Is it an actual bridal party in the office or outside of work) You can say that you had plans that day, or make an excuse like you need to catch up on something. I don't think people are going to look down upon you that badly.

I still think out of kindness to give your co-worker something - a gift card to Amazon, coffee place or a restaurant that they enjoy going to. That way you are still being friendly and congratulating them on a big event in their life.

And thank you! I try my best. :B