As a general rule, I don’t accept party invitations because I’m a closet wallflower. Although I have to put myself out there to network and get business, at base I’m shy and uncomfortable–especially in group-type gatherings.

But a few months ago I received a party invitation that so surprised me, from a delightful couple I know from one of my networking groups, I said yes. And yesterday was the day.

In a single sound bite, I had a good time. There were ten people there (give or take) that I knew and felt comfortable with, so for the last part of the three hours I was there, I hung with them and had a wonderful time. The rest of the time I wandered and took photos, because the couple’s official photographer didn’t show and the couple asked me to pinch hit–which was wonderful, because it gave me something to do, in which I had to interact with the other hundred or so guests that I didn’t know.  I simply introduced myself as the designated photographer for the event and walked around taking pictures of the attendees and the vintage cars that twenty or more of them arrived in. (The event was a combined party and car show.)

I was there three and a half hours. On the rare occasions when I’ve gone to a party before, I was lucky if I lasted 90 minutes before excusing myself and heading out.  So I’m getting better.

Although I’m a writer, I’m not very good at small talk with strangers and acquaintances. I need to make a friend of an acquaintance before they’ll ever hear much out of me; otherwise, I remain mum.

All in all, I’m glad I went. I’ll feel less hesitant about going to other parties now. I survived and even had fun. That’s a step in the right direction, after all these years.