My closest friend is getting married this Saturday. I'm one of 5 bridesmaids. The others all have partners — 3 are already married, 1 is getting married soon.

At last night's rehearsal, sitting at the table with the girls, the conversation was all about houses, kids, mortgage payments. I just listened. Nothing to add.

One of them said, "You're next!" Everyone smiled. I smiled back.

I felt like the odd one out at this whole thing. Everyone had a partner to walk with. During the procession, I was the only one without a groomsman to pair with.

It's not that I'm not happy for my friend — I'm so happy for her. It's just... going home late, no one waiting up, no one asking how it went.

How do single women in their 30s get through other people's weddings without feeling sad?