You may have heard horror tales about meeting boyfriend’s parents for the 1st time, but pretend you didn’t (out of all my girlfriends just one of them had bad luck with her boyfriends’ folks, but those love birds still got engaged).
Anyway, I am sure you would still want his Mom and Dad go crazy about you. So, apart from an open mind and a positive outlook, here are a couple of other tips that you can use to make a great start with his family!
1. Wait
Don’t rush into meeting the family. Wait for the right time. Get to know your guy first. Once you’re sure that this relationship is ‘the one’ then mutually decide to meet the parents.
2. Research
Learn up names of family members and try to get photographs so you can recognize them before you are introduced. You’ll be more at ease if you know who is going to be present. I had an embarrassing moment when in the middle of the dinner I forgot the name of the aunt who was too at the table… Thank God I didn’t have to address her. Her name is Anna, and although we broke up with that guy, I remember his Aunt’s name till this day.
3. Venue
The right location is important. One good choice would be something neutral, like a restaurant. Choose one that is semi-formal unless you’re a pro at figuring out the cutlery!
4. Punctuality
Don’t you want to make a good impression? Don’t be late as it’s disrespectful to make others wait for you. If you’re running late then call and apologies and mention what time you can be expected.
5. Gifts
We all love them. However, finding the right gift is important. So find out in advance from your guy on what would be a good gift. Perhaps you could try a bottle of wine or some chocolates. I noticed that a box of expensive chocolates works perfectly. But make sure you know what kind they prefer - dark, white, milk chocolate…
6. Attire
Get as much information as you can from your mate. You don’t want to overdress or look sloppy. Stay away from mini skirts and anything that shows off your cleavage or underwear (bra straps in particular), see-throughs also should be avoided. Find out what style is expected - your boyfriend should surely know! Oh, and please, try not to put too much makeup. Many parents and grandparents might disapprove…
7. Conversation
So you dressed up real pretty, but do you have a mind? Then prove it but don’t go overboard. Try and not show off about your exploits and education. Try and involve all the members of the family. Be polite.
8. Flattery
Yes it works to an extent. Shower a little praise on them for making their son a fine gentleman. His mother certainly wouldn’t mind a few compliments on the food or home décor. But make sure you complement on things you really like (like their son :). You don’t want the compliments sound like little suck-up lies, do you?
9. Opinions
While it’s fine to have an opinion on certain matters, try and stay away from politics, religion and gender issues. You don’t want to find yourself contradicting all the other family members. Agreeing with things or staying politely quiet is the best policy when family debates begin. If giving an opinion can not be avoided, try to stay as neutral as possible, not to offend anyone.
10. Leave
After dinner stay a while and chat, but don’t linger on forever. They will probably want to wrap it up even if the evening went well. So thank everyone for having you over and make a graceful exit.
Meeting the parents doesn’t need to be a dreadful. So, basically just be nice, open and honest. If you plan things in advance or at least think over the questions they might ask you, you will feel more comfortable and prepared. I know it worked for me, and now my mother in law and I are in a great relationship :) I am pretty sure these tips will work for you too.
Good luck, and remember, if their son fell in love with you, they’ll love you too!
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