One of the things I've incorporated into my game, regardless of situation, is starting any social situation by opening a group of men. As much as I know and have done, I still get AA. I can usually blow past it, but it really helps to start off this way. It gets me into the groove of opening strangers, guys always seem to be receptive, and you start building social proof. I've had random guys I met this way wing for me, or introduce me to friends.

Hopefully it works out for you guys. I've actually been out of pickup for a bit, so going over things like this are helping me get back into the swing of it all.