((((estee))) hugs to warm you up.
I have to disagree with Poetry about not going. I think if you don't go to this then you won't go to the next event and soon enough you'll be afraid just to leave your house.
Go and get it over with. No matter what happens you'll be glad you tried. I don't think you're going to look foolish or freeze up. You'll be fine-once your there you'll be like "What was I afraid of?"
Your new best friend may be there waiting to meet you-
Put on a brave face and go and have fun and enjoy some tea!!! If you can't eat what they serve then just tell them that you have allergies or why you can't eat it and I'm sure they'll understand. No biggie.
Go!
More warm hugs!