OPINION: Thinking about attending a Celestial Event solo?

In the lead up to the September 1st ticket sales for the Brisbane June 21st 2025 Ball.

If you are feeling nervous and unsure about whether or not to risk coming along solo read on.

Words: Taylor Musa

Celestial Events are for everyone to feel included and seen, however it can feel extremely daunting to go to an event alone. There are many people in our group chats and Facebook group who want to come along to the events but have no one to come with.

So, where to start as a solo attendee and what are the things you can look out for?

Celestial Events Facebook:

The Facebook group and chats are a great place to begin your solo journey and virtually meet some of the attendees before the event.

Meetups:

Celestial Events are known for their pre-ball meetups which allows you to break the ice and meet attendees in person before the ball even begins.

On the night of the ball: there are allocated spaces where solo attendees can mingle and catch a breather. The cast and volunteers are always there for you if you need a familiar face to talk to or hang out with.

Trades:

This is optional, but you can bring little trinkets, such as friendship bracelets, key chains, clay figurines, and more, which you can trade with people throughout the event. This is a great way to break the ice and make friends!

I talked to 5 solo event attendees (Persephone, Hanna, Jess, Kaylin and Alexis) to give you some advice:

How did you feel about going solo to a Celestial Event and did it change once you arrived?

Hanna (Brisbane Ball):

I definitely felt nervous about going solo! I deliberately chose to go solo to the Saturday ball instead of taking my husband with me to the Sunday ball when it opened up, knowing that if he came, we’d both end up standing awkwardly in the corner whereas if I went solo, it would force me to make friends - and I did end up meeting some amazing girls who took me under their wing from the pre-ball dinner to breakfast on Sunday morning! I met a lot of wonderful people at the meetup (the charades and chinese whispers were so helpful!) before going on to the pre-ball dinner so by the time the ball rolled around, I wasn’t as nervous knowing there would be some familiar faces there.

Jess (Brisbane Ball):

I was absolutely terrified, I’d never travelled on my own before and had to do everything related to travelling (hotel, travel, food and what not). I’d let this be the reason I hadn’t done things in the past so I pulled up my big girl pants and decided if I wanted to see things and do the things I loved I was going to have to move past it. Then more so I didn’t know anyone in Brisbane and none of my friends had ever enjoyed the books I read so I couldn’t talk to anyone. …The meet and greet really helped settle the nerves. Having a big group of people talking about something I have held dear to my heart and being just as excited about it I knew I was in the right place. Everyone was so kind and conversation was so easy to start, “who's your favourite SJM boyfriend/girlfriend?"

Persephone (Brisbane Riders Gathering):

I was so nervous about attending alone. I was shaking right until I made it to the door. I was in costume (slightly uncomfortable) and didn't even know what everyone looked like! …But I never really felt alone, watching people complete tasks or meet for the first time was really sweet! Initial connections can be difficult for me but I came out of the experience with more confidence in myself and my ability.

Kaylin (Sydney Ball):

I was so nervous going solo to the ball when I booked the tickets back in 2023 as I didn’t know anyone in the community and the thought of walking into a room of 300 people I didn’t know was terrifying but I booked the ticket anyways because I wanted to be able to dress up in a ballgown and go meet new bookish friends! I was so nervous walking into the pre-drinks alone but met someone when I stepped out of the elevator and we walked in together. I met a group of people who were taking photos and offered for us to join them. When I got into the actual event I immediately went to the 360 Photo Booth and started talking to people in line about everyone’s outfits and from there the night only got easier!

Alexis (Sydney Ball):

I was excited and nervous, but this year in particular, I decided I didn't want to miss out on doing amazing things for fear of doing it alone. I have missed out on unique experiences due to no one else sharing the same nerdy, book or gaming interests as me. As I waited for the 2nd lift (I was too shy to step into the first lol) I instantly met 3 other gorgeous girls in dresses. So instant friends. The 2nd time was during the night dancing to a song I wanted to share with friends, but was solo. But the moments passed quickly as someone from the community told me they loved my tiara

What is your advice for anyone planning on going solo to a Celestial Event?

Persephone:

I am so glad I made this decision, as daunting as it seemed at the time. So my advice is to trust yourself and the people in our community. We are a safe and welcoming place so let loose! Being nervous is okay, just don't let it get in the way of your happiness. I promise you that the Celestials will accept you as you are, so don't let the hard days win.

Hanna:

Join the group chats! If you’re shy it’s a great way to at least know some names to give you the confidence to approach people, and everyone is so lovely and welcoming. If you’re planning on attending a dinner, take the lead and book a table to invite other soloists to - I joined someone’s table for Brisbane and got to know those girls way better than I would have in two minutes at the ball! If you’re crafty, I’d also recommend making some items to trade! This isn’t a necessity, but it’s a fantastic way to break the ice with the other people in line with you.

Jess:

My advice would be to gather all the courage you have, channel your inner SJM queen and take the leap. If you can only muster enough strength to stand awkwardly next to someone/a group then that’s exactly all you need to do. When I got into the ball I was adopted by the group I happened to stand next to in a line and they are my SJM besties! Everyone in this group has at least 2 things in common: we love SJM and are the kindest people that just wants everyone to enjoy the greatest fantasy night of their lives.

Kaylin:

My advice to anyone going solo to a celestial event is to speak to one of the volunteers if you're really nervous they know what they're doing and are able to help you find your way to the solo area or even help you start talking to other ball attendees. If you're sitting in the solo area or in a line for the bar or Photo Booth simply saying I love your dress/outfit to the person in front or behind you is a great conversation starter and a good way to relax into talking to people.

Alexis:

My advice to anyone going solo is join the chats and get to know everyone. Just go for it! This has been the most welcoming, wholesome and supportive group of people I've ever experienced. I cannot wait to go to Melbourne!

Are you ready to take the leap and attend solo? We would love to see you at one of Celestial Events fantasy events.

All ticket sales will be vis this link at Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/celestial-events-18287155245

Melbourne: November 2024

Brisbane: June 2025

Perth: 2025