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!
