Meeting Boyfriend's Friends?

[Anonymous]

Hi! My boyfriend (31) and I (28) have been in a relationship for three months and known each other for five months. For the five months, we talked to each other everyday and things have been going great.

Ever since we started dating, he always asked frequently if I wanted to have dinner with his friends but he never forced me to. Deep down, I appreciate the fact that he wanted me to meet his inner circle, but being the introvert that I am, I am very shy when it comes to meeting new people, which is why I prefer small group or one on one interactions. I am nice and smile a lot, but I am nervous that my lack of social skills will give his friends a different opinion of me. On Friday night, I did meet his college friend (and his wife) for dinner and drinks (double date). I have never been on a double date before. It was a good experience, I like his friends, and my boyfriend never made me feel left out. Yesterday, he asked if I want to come to his barbeque party next weekend and a lot of his friends will be there.

For a little more background, we discussed our relationship expectation when we became boyfriend/girlfriend. I expressed that we should know if we are right for each other (as in being long term for marriage) in six months, and by one year mark, to determine if we will be heading to marriage or find another connection. He agreed with my view but wanted me to move in with him so he can see if we can live together before he makes a decision, but I am very traditional and my family will be against it, so I have communicated that to him as well and he was ok with it.

1. What does it mean when he wants me to meet most of his friends?

2. Do you think he is happy with me and that’s why he wants me to meet his friends? Or does he want validation from his friends on our relationship?

3. Should I go to his party where most of his friends will be there? (I am so shy but I probably should work on my social skills too lol)

Thank you all for your time and opinion! :)

[Anonymous]

1. When someone wants to introduce their partner to their friends, it often means that they see a future with that person and want their friends to get to know and like them as well. It's a sign that your boyfriend values your relationship and wants to integrate you into his social circle.

2. It's possible that your boyfriend is happy with you and wants his friends to see how great you are, but it's also possible that he wants validation from his friends. However, if he's already introduced you to some of his friends and is still inviting you to more social events, it's likely that he cares about you and wants to share his life with you.

3. It's ultimately up to you whether or not you want to attend the party. If you're feeling shy or uncomfortable, you could talk to your boyfriend and see if there's a way for him to help make you feel more at ease. You could also try to challenge yourself and step outside of your comfort zone, as it can be a good way to grow and develop your social skills. However, if you're really not comfortable attending, it's okay to decline the invitation and suggest a smaller gathering instead.

It's great that you and your boyfriend have discussed your relationship expectations and are on the same page about the timeline for moving forward. It's important to continue to communicate openly and honestly with each other about your needs and concerns, and to work together to build a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

[Avicenna]

It's positive that he wants you to meet his friends

[spartan55]

Why would you not go to his barbecue? He's your boyfriend, right? Stop worrying about how you are going to be perceived and just go have fun.

[Anonymous]

i assume he was the one that asked you out, hit on you