Meeting your significant other’s family is nerve-wracking. More so if you are meeting them over the holidays. Of course, you want them to like you but you have to do it the right way. Here are 6 tips on how you can survive and ace the whole experience.
As the saying goes, you’ll never have a second chance to create a good first impression. So this is it and you can do this!
1. Be yourself!
As much as you want their family to like you, “fake it till you make it” doesn’t apply in this situation. Stay true to yourself while keeping your “filter” on. You don’t need to pretend to be someone you are not or make up stories to impress them. Because trust me, parents know.
2. Dress appropriately.
It’s nice to dress your best because it shows that you cared enough to put an effort in dressing nicely. But you have to make sure that you are dressed appropriately. Ladies, it’s not the time to show off your cleavage and thighs. Keep it classy, simple, demure and elegant. And oh, easy on the make-up. Gentlemen, be well-groomed, trimmed and polished. Above all, make sure that you are comfortable with what you are wearing.
3. Bring a gift.
Never show up empty-handed. Ask your partner about their family’s interests or go for the traditional tokens – flowers, a bottle of wine, dessert or a scented candle. The family will surely appreciate the gesture.
4. Don’t be a wall flower.
Make an effort to engage with the family, without being nosey of course. Try to make conversations and show genuine interest to learn about each member of the family. Loosen up, have fun and enjoy quality time with your loved one’s family.
5. Offer to help.
Before dinner, offer to lend a hand in the kitchen and after, help clear out the table or clean the dishes. This will show that you were raised to be helpful and responsible.
6. Be grateful.
Lastly, NEVER forget to thank them for welcoming you to their home.
