1. When you first arrive, it's awkward. Where do you stand? Who do you talk to? Should you go find a seat or wander around? The only person who you know for sure will be there is the bride, and she's still in hiding at this point. Eventually you make a friend or find some people you kind of know.

2.  Those people will feel sorry for you. Your high school chorus teacher will wait with you in line for punch. The dad of a kid who lived in your neighborhood will save you a seat for dinner. And you aren't even mad about being pitied, because you're too busy being grateful to be rid of the awkwardness.... Temporarily.