Friday, July 18, 2008

Single...During Wedding Season

I've been MIA is because of the media. Yes - that industry of which I am a small part, has literally taken over my life for the past few weeks! Here's a link to an interview I did for CNN.com, and the subject matter is about being "single during wedding season". Now - you aren't going to see my "contribution" until you get to the end...but I think the writer pretty summed everything up by leaving my quote until last...

And no - I'm not jaded or cynical. Just happily realistic and satisfied with the choices I make. I have literally "been there - done that" when it comes to being hitched. And I still think that the institution of marriage is a wonderfully amazing thing because I am fortunate to witness its birth almost every weekend! But I also know that IF Mr. Right is out there for me - our paths will cross and intertwine for a lifetime..........

So, for all of you wedding professionals out there who might be in the same boat as me - feel free to comment on this topic! Do you feel "left out" at all your events as you are watching oh-so happy couples over and over say "I Do"? How do you embrace your "singlehood" in the midst of an industry that clearly works on the premise of eternal "coupledom"?

Can't wait to read your responses!!!!

7 comments:

Affairs With Elegance said...

Hi Linnyette, as you know I'm not single but my assistant is. I think watching happy, loving couples say "I do" gives her hope that there is someone special out there for her. I think it also helps her see how happy a relationship can be when the RIGHT person comes along.

Anonymous said...

Hey Linnyette, I just wanted to let you know that the link to the CNN interview is not working..I found the correct one...
http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/personal/07/16/singles.at.wedding/index.html

Love you,

Linnyette Richardson-Hall said...

Leslie:
Thanks for the "correction" - I appreciate it!!!

Linnyette Richardson-Hall said...

Lakendra:
Good point - it's always nice to see other folks "happy".

As I tell many people, at my age (knocking on the door of 50!!), I have come to realize what is important to me in the grand scheme of things. There are a lot of women out there who seriously "angst" over the fact that they are indeed - single. My theory? Don't sweat it! There are so many wonderful things about being single and wildly independent - so embrace them! Nothing like having the ability to REALLY do what you want, when you want and how you want...without having to think of someone else. Now I know that might sound a bit selfish...but it's okay. Every once in a while, it's just darn good to think about YOU!!!!

Sidebar: I don't want anyone to think I am "anti-marriage", far from it, actually. I like to think of myself as one of those women who is secure enough in herself to understand that being married isn't the THING that makes me who I am, it's one of the many parts that my life consists of.........

Isis said...

Linnyette,

first off...welcome back!!!!!

How timely of a post.

I constantly get asked if I'm married and how I can plan weddings and not be saddened that I myself am not married. My response "I get married every other Saturday". lol.

I love being a part of my couple's nuptials and sharing in the experinece; and experience that I see through different "eyes" each and every time, not being married myself.

When I do meet and marry my Mr. Right...he better watch out though b/c the Planner in me, has this one in the bag! :)

Anonymous said...

I am in the age group that right now alot of my friends and family is getting married. As of right now I have 5 weddings next year. This brings me to thinking when will I be next. Then I had an eye opening conversation with my mother. She told me that my life is not ready to be married to anyone right now. She is so correct. I love to travel and I am still pursuing my dream of a masters degree. Not saying that this can't be accomplished while being married. This is just a process that I would like to have done before the husband and children. Which brings me to my next statement. I have watched friends younger then me, my same age, and older then me get married and get divorced. This did nothing for my look at marriage. I watched my mother suffer through two awful marriages, and I think this has also made me shy away from it. Being in relationships has its perks. However at this point in my life I embrace my singlehood. I am proud to be a educated, independent, single black women. Right now in the midst of eveything making weddings some as a fade or a great party. I am sorry, but I have to stop and ask the question, what happens after the church is closed, the hall is cleaning up after the reception, and you two are left to live together. There is no everyday party with everyone. There is noone there to tost and dance. You two have to live real life together. Marriage is one of the biggest steps that I feel you can take in life.
So that is how I embrace my singlehood, by trying to improve myself. Through my walk with Christ, my education and financial status. Seriously when I walk into marriage, I dont want to be walking into it cause its going to be a fun event.

The feeling of being left out comes and goes. I get low moments when I feel its never going to happen to me. I have planned my wedding, found the venue for my reception, scouted florist, bakers, DJ's, photographers, and limo services. So yes, it comes, however it is what you do with that feeling that is the question. I have come to accept the fact that I am not married yet, and it will come. However I have accepted, that GOD is not ready for me to be married yet, so while he is waiting to give me a husband, I embrace being me. Having a man or husband does not make me. It will enhance the life the I have been fortunate to build.

Thats me! I look forward to your response.

Lexus Events said...

Im new to the business but have been to several wedding especially in the last year and Im looking forward to the weddings that I will attend.

Im almost 40, single and Im good. Im a firm beleiver in "If its for me, then it will be".

Happy Weddings all!