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"Wedding parties, flowing wine, and people dynamics bring out unexpected behavior in people. Knowing who to bring and how to act at someone else's wedding is like navigating an obstacle course with a blindfold," says Philippa Courtney, syndicated advice columnist and author of 4 Steps to bring the Right Person into your life Right Now!

Courtney answers the most common questions of single and divorced wedding invitees:

Is a boring date better than going solo? Whether you go solo or bring a date you still have to deal with all the personalities and situations that you have no control over. Whether you have a good or bad time depends on you and your expectations.

What if I see my ex there? Remember that your ex probably feels uncomfortable too. Act self-assured, smile, and be the one to initiate contact. Focus the conversation on your ex and keep the greeting brief. Then find a friend, share a laugh, and at least act like you are having a good time.

What should I wear? Never out dress the bride by wearing loud colors or revealing clothes. Instead, win friends and compliments by choosing an outfit or tie that goes with the color scheme of the wedding. Feel free to wear something in a lighter or darker shade that best suits you.

How can I avoid lechers? Limit your drinking by diluting alcohol with soda water. Stay away from the obviously inebriated, especially in secluded places, like bathrooms, coat closets and upstairs bedrooms.

What if I used to date the bride (or groom)? Don't go to the wedding if you are still carrying a torch. Why torture yourself or spoil their day? If you've moved on emotionally, however, go have a good time and share in your ex's happiness. Your turn is coming.

How do I avoid the "why are you still single" questions? Smile and ask them how's married life? Or just laugh and hug them and say the best ones are taken. Then tell them you're just too busy having fun and enjoying yourself.

People from all over North America and from as far away as South Africa, India, and Australia write to Courtney about the challenges of being single. Her Ask Philippa advice column is published weekly in magazine and dating websites. For more information, go to Philippa's website, www.rightlove.com.

Edited by Jennifer Hutchinson

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