On the other hand, maybe he’s just not the social type. Does that mean he can play his “get out of jail free” card every time you have a function? Cohen says, “If your man is shy then don't pressure him into going all the time and don't view his shyness as a personality flaw. Instead only ask him to go for functions that really matter. Plus, if you can, introduce him to some folks ahead of time so he feels more comfortable.”

But if you’re picking out bath towels with this guy and your friends still can’t remember if his name is Greg or Craig, it doesn’t matter how shy he is. You need to take action.

Demand the date.
If it’s important to you that he attends something, let him know. Don’t cave just because he’d rather play video games than go to a couples’ shower. Cohen says, “The best thing a woman can do is offer a barter arrangement. If he goes to your work happy hour, you'll go with him to something he enjoys.” Before you make this deal, just make sure you’re prepared for several long NASCAR races.

Give him a break.
Now if he refuses to tag along with you while you go shoe shopping, it’s not catastrophic. But if you have an important event on your calendar, that’s another story. “The bigger the event, the more the woman should encourage her man to attend. If it's just drinks, no big deal. When it's an important work function, he should be by your side,” says Cohen.