Everyone is happy when their best friend gets a new boyfriend, but many also have a slight fear that she's going to disappear. It's a rational concern considering how many get into a relationship and go off the grid. In the beginning of a relationship, it's easy to get enveloped in the honeymoon phase and before you know it it's been weeks or months since you've seen your best friend. No one wants to sacrifice their relationship with their best friend for their boyfriend and vice versa. There are a variety of ways you can still keep your friendship going strong while still enjoying the honeymoon phase of your new relationship.
Set up a weekly date
Set up a weekly date with your best friend whether the two of you go to an exercise class or just grab coffee. It will give you the ability to have the important face-to-face contact with each other and it will also give you something to look forward to. If the weekly date isn't possible, at least set up one that takes place bi-weekly.
Plan outings all together
Instead of planning separate outings with your best friend and your guy, plan some where all of you can get together as a group. It's one of the easiest ways for the two of them to get to know each other while allowing you to avoid choosing who gets your time for that evening. Another option is to plan a group dinner the same day every month and invite all of your friends so you can get everyone together and catch up.
Plan your own gatherings for special occasions
Many plan a single birthday outing where they gather together all their friends and their boyfriend. Although this is a great way to celebrate the occasion, consider also planning a separate outing with your best friend where it's just the two of you bonding and having girl time. She'll definitely be happy that you've chosen to spend that time with her for your birthday.
Plan a phone date
Having a scheduled weekly phone call with your best friend is an especially great idea for those who are super busy. The call will ensure that the two of you stay up-to-date on each others lives and don't lose touch. Of course the two of you can have spontaneous conversations, but at least you know you have the same set day/time every week to have the phone call even during very busy weeks. It'll increase the chances that you won't go long periods without talking with each other.
Your relationship with your best friend is just as important as the one with your boyfriend. Some seem to forget this or take it for granted thinking that their friend is going to still be around even after they essentially dropped her for their boyfriend. Make every effort to let your friend know (and show her) that she's important enough to you that you'll be around whether or not you have a guy in your life.
More from Lauren R:
The do's and don'ts of gift giving in a new relationship
6 ways you're smothering your new guy
