I have a work Christmas party coming up in a few weeks, and it’ll be my first one at this company. It’s a fairly small team—about 40 people—and partners are invited every year, so most people bring their significant others.
Recently, I became friends with a colleague who mentioned feeling awkward about going because she’s single and would likely be the only one there without a partner. She asked if I could attend solo so she wouldn’t feel as out of place, and I reluctantly agreed because I understand how intimidating that situation could feel.
However, when I mentioned the party to my partner, he said he’d love to come, and I’d honestly really like him to join me. But now I feel stuck because I already told my colleague I’d go alone for her sake. She saw my partner’s name on the food list and jokingly called me a liar, saying she thought I wasn’t bringing anyone. She seemed pretty upset, so I panicked and told her I’d let him know not to come.
Now I feel really torn. On one hand, I’d enjoy having my partner there and don’t see why I shouldn’t bring him just to make someone else feel more comfortable. On the other hand, I feel guilty for backing out of my promise to my colleague, especially since she’s new and nervous about attending alone.
Am I being unreasonable for wanting to bring my partner? How do I tell her without feeling awful about it? Should I stick to going solo to support her or invite him along? For context, he is a long-term partner.