How To Handle Meeting His Parents

With the holidays fast approaching, your beau has asked you to go home to meet his parents. This is a good thing, right? Guys don’t usually take their girlfriends home to mom and dad unless they see the relationship as something substantial. Oh, but your nerves are getting the best of you with the big question … “Will his parents approve of me”? And if you’re not asking yourself this question, you’re probably not that invested in the relationship, which is a whole other topic for another day.

Although there’s never a guarantee that anyone is going to like you, there are a few fairly standard actions that you should follow to ensure that you will, at least, be welcomed back. While you may be envisioning scenes from “Meet The Parents,” meeting his parents is most likely not going to be that awkward and you have control over setting the tone for this first encounter. With a little preparation and the tips below, you should be able to make this first meeting a happy and positive experience for both you and your beau’s parents.

1. Do Your Research

You don’t need to go NSA level, but you do need to know the basic dynamics of his family. Take the time to find out what his family’s cultural norms are. Do they observe a specific religion? Are they ultra-conservative or super laid back? Is there a specific hobby that the family participates in? How should you address his mom and dad? If his family holds culture differences that are vastly different from yours, preparation is essential in order to avoid awkward or offensive situations.

2. Looks Matter

Regardless if his mom and dad are “chill,” rest assured that you’re going to be judged. Meeting his parents is probably not the best time to don a mini-dress and 4-inch stilettos. Error on the side of caution and dress a little more conservatively then you may usually do, and if you’re going to be an overnight guest, bring pajamas and a bathrobe. Speaking from experience, no member of his family wants to see you waltzing from the bathroom in just a towel … except for his pervy little brother maybe.

3. Do Not Arrive Empty Handed

The Dating Examiner often hosts dinner parties and houseguests. From personal experience, TDE can share that a guest who arrives empty handed is a guest that obviously has no manners or appreciation for her hospitality. Whatever you bring absolutely does not have to be expensive or grand, it is the simple thoughtful gesture that’s important. If your beau tells you that you don’t need to bring something, ignore him … he’s wrong and yes, his mother will take note of the empty handed girlfriend.

4. Manners Matter

No matter whom you interact with at your beau’s house, be polite. Politeness includes avoiding topics that may be controversial, such as politics. And manners include getting off your butt after dinner (or any meal) and helping to clean up. Remember that you are a guest and the “Golden Rule” applies, but most of all enjoy the experience … and don’t forget to send a thank you note!