Who says you can’t have a big group hangout consisting of the ones closest to you: your biffles as well as your sweetheart? Sometimes people have a hard time balancing the cute couple PDA and just being silly, chilling with your favorite girlfriends.
One thing to keep in mind: it won’t be awkward unless you make it that way. Honestly, these two groups of people have one big thing in common: they like you a whole lot. So, grab your significant other, and a whole bunch of your close friends and see a movie, skate on the ice rink all together, go to a concert, or even simply enjoy a day at the park. It’s key that these important people in your life have some kind of bond with each other as well so that they can learn more about you and what kinds of relationships you value.
Include EVERYONE! You should find a happy middle between a romantic dinner for two and gossiping at a sleepover with your friends when you’re all hanging out. Both groups can feel left out if you do too much of one. Another thing to always remember: never drop your friends you’ve kept close forever for a boyfriend. Balancing time with both takes planning and an open mind but it is crucial if you want to keep those you love in your life.
Listen to your friends’ input. There’s no bigger red flag than a best friend who has something against your sweetheart. If they don’t seem enthused after you guys have all done something together, ask them why. If they seem wary about your man, don’t shut them down but really keep your ears open. They may tell you something you’ve known all along, like the way he treats you, may not be what you think you deserve. If they do bring up a scary point, it’s because your friends care about you and want you to be safe and happy. Talk to your man about it also. If your friends really like your boyfriend and vice versa, mission accomplished!
If YOU happen to be the one hanging out with your friend’s guy, there’s definitely some things to keep in mind to make things completely comfortable too. Trust me, I’ve been in some pretty awkward situations third wheeling it hard, but I’ve managed to keep a positive mindset.
First of all, your friend is really happy around this guy, so you should be happy for her too and remind her of that. The day will never get better if you just have a jealous green eyed monster lurking in your head.
Secondly, make an effort to find out more about this guy. Most boyfriends appreciate when their girlfriends’ friends are genuinely interested in them as well.
Lastly, be honest with your friend. She values your opinion if she is a true buddy. So, if you really feel that this guy she’s hanging around just may not be for her based on the way he treats her, let her know ASAP. You could just save her from the worst relationship she’s gotten herself into. She’ll appreciate your honesty and will hopefully take your opinion into account when she thinks about the guys she brings around and into her life!