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Meet the parents: Here’s how to impress your partner’s family

Here are a few tips to help you survive the experience of meeting your partner’s family for the first time.

Do your research

Learn about his or her family members ahead of time. Get the low down from your partner, or Instagram the hell outta them. These are facts you can use in conversation.

Dress for the occasion

As we all know, people tend to base their first impressions of you on what they see. So, wear your most comfortable and polished outfit. Now’s not the time to choose those pants you can’t quite zip up or that racy blouse – even if your partner loves it. Choose an outfit that makes you look good, following your partner’s lead. While you may not be the type to judge someone by what they wear, tons of aunties and cousins will, so paying attention to your attire’s imperative.

Bring a gift

If you’re going to someone’s house for the first time – especially for an event as important as Christmas Day – it’s critical to bring something. You don’t have to go crazy with some huge present or an intricate gift. Whether it’s a bottle of wine or a bunch of flowers, bringing a simple welcome gift to say hello and thanks can go a long way.

Eat a little before you go

You don’t want to meet the parents on an empty stomach, and then drink wine or a cocktail to relax. That’s asking for either a hangover or an embarrassing moment, right in front of his or her family. Watch your alcohol intake!

Offer to help

It doesn’t take much to wipe down the counter or set the table. Even if his or her family doesn’t need help, offering shows selflessness, helpfulness, and a willingness to be independent of your partner to impact the greater good. They may turn it down, but you’ll certainly leave a lasting impression.

Put your phone down!

Minimising your phone usage will allow you to better connect with the people you’re there to meet. Interrupting dinner or disengaging due to a text message or social media debate is disrespectful and offensive.

Put the spotlight on them

Ask them questions to get them talking. By doing so, you’ll learn about them without having to stumble over nervous words. Plus, people love talking about themselves, and it’ll make the time go by faster.

Be authentic

Don’t parade around, acting like you’re someone you’re not for the sake of their approval. Instead, honour the woman you are and showcase her. Show them why your beau wanted to date you in the first place. Laugh at the jokes you think are funny. Share your personal stories. Tell them about the work you do and why it’s meaningful. You do you.

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