From The Straits Times    |
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Image: kzenon / 123RF Stock Photo

So your boyfriend is taking your relationship one step further by introducing you to his parents. It’s normal to be nervous in such a situation but there’s no need for it to turn into a horror movie, if you follow these tips.

 

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Find out as much as you can about his family. We don’t mean stalking their social media accounts, just ask your guy what they’re like. Also learn simple things like everyone’s names and what they do for a living. And find out if he has introduced any other women to his family before, so you know the level of seriousness of this meeting for both yourself and his family.

 

DRESS APPROPRIATELY

Showing too much skin or cleavage is definitely a no-no. See-through tops are a bad idea too, as are too-short skirts. And go easy on the makeup too. But don’t dress sloppily either – show that you’ve made an effort. First impressions do count, after all. If you’re going to their house, a pair of jeans and a nice casual top is fine, along with a pair of low heels. If you’re meeting at a restaurant, dress according to its dress code.

 

NO PDA, PLEASE

Avoid being overly touchy with your boyfriend. It’s okay to hold hands if you’re walking but don’t do it while you’re sitting next to each other. Chances are that he won’t want to get too physical in front of his folks either but if he does try, stop him politely and tell him quietly that it isn’t appropriate in this scenario.

 

BRING A GIFT

If you’re going to his parents’ house, don’t go empty-handed. A bottle of wine or a box of chocolates are good suggestions but make sure you don’t offend them with your gift – you don’t want to give them wine if they don’t drink alcohol. Ask your guy but if he isn’t helpful, a box of expensive chocolates or a bunch of flowers are safe options.

 

GET TALKING

Don’t be a wallflower, get the conversation going. Ask them questions to show that you’re interested in getting to know them. But stay away from controversial topics such as politics and religion; you don’t want to get into any avoidable arguments, do you?

 

MIND YOUR MANNERS

Greet them politely and compliment them on their lovely home. If you’re served a home-cooked meal, compliment the chef on the food. But, no matter how delicious it is, don’t gobble it down or take massive portions. And thank them when you leave.

 

DON’T IGNORE OTHER

It’s not just his parents you have to impress, the whole family counts. So if his siblings are there, ask them about their school or work. If he has nephews or nieces, get playful with them, but don’t be over-friendly if you sense that they have overprotective parents. Ask your guy about them beforehand or assess the situation when you’re there.

 

COMPLIMENT YOUR MAN

Praise your boyfriend when you get the chance as it shows how much you love him. If he got a promotion recently or won a trophy for his weekend football team, bring this into the conversation. His parents will be thrilled that you’re as proud of him as they are.

 

OFFER TO HELP

If you’re at their home, offer to help to set the table or clear it after the meal, or to do the dishes. This shows that you appreciate their efforts in preparing a meal and that you’re willing to pitch in too. But make sure you know what you’re doing; if you’re not the domestic sort, you might want to stay away from the kitchen in case you embarrass yourself.

 

BE YOURSELF

Don’t fake anything – they’ll be sure to notice. Don’t pretend to be someone who you think they want you to be, just be yourself. If your man loves you for who you are, chances are his parents will feel the same way too.

 

Think you’re ready to take the relationship to the next level? Read our story on 4 signs to see if you are ready for marriage. For more relationship tips, check out our lifestyle section.