The holidays can be a truly lovely time of the year. With parties, delicious foods, and festive gatherings with family and friends. But they can also prove to be stressful, especially when you’re in a brand new relationship and this happens to be the first time you’re meeting their family.
Of course you want to make a good first impression and have a wonderful time. You know you’re polite and have heard many good things about them, but it can still be nerve-wracking. The good news for you is that we know how you can make a great lasting impression. So don’t fret another day, because we’re here to help you out. Read on as New Jersey Singles reviews helpful tips for meeting your partner’s family over the holidays.
1. Dress to Impress
Much like a first date or a job interview, a lot of people agonize over what to wear when they’re going to meet their partner’s parents for the first time. It makes sense because your outfit has a lot to do with how they’ll perceive you. With that being said, you need to look your best. Wear something that makes you look good and feel confident at the same time. Remember to choose something on the conservative side.
2. Bring a Small Gift with You
For this one, you definitely want to talk to your partner. It can be something as simple as a bottle of wine or seasonal flowers. But your partner will be able to guide you in the right direction. Maybe their mom only drinks red wine, or maybe dad is allergic to nuts and would love a box of chocolates instead. Or perhaps your partner tells you their mom and dad collect holiday ornaments, so what better than this thoughtful gift idea? Whatever the case might be, never show up emptyhanded.
3. Compliment Them Genuinely
Everyone loves to hear that their home is beautiful and that their food tastes delicious, and compliments will definitely be appreciated by their parents. Say nice things, but don’t just say them because you’re supposed to. You must give genuine compliments that you truly mean.
4. Talk Up Your Partner
Along the same lines of giving their family a compliment, you also want to talk up your partner a little bit in front of them. First of all, it shows you care about your partner and that you’re proud to date them. It also shows that you have a great relationship. And the best bonus? Well, it’s like giving their parents another compliment, but a much greater and deeper compliment. After all, it shows that they raised a great son or daughter.
5. Offer to Prep & Clean Up
This is something you do when you visit your own parents, but you can also do it with theirs. Offer to prep and clean up. A simple “Is there anything I can do to help out?” will go a long way, believe us. Also, don’t just jump in and start doing the dishes if mom didn’t first authorize it. You never know, she might have heirloom dishes that require special care, and the last thing you would want to do is break one of her prize possessions.
6. Say Thank You
Again, you probably already know this one but it’s worth repeating. A simple thank you can make a great impression on their parents. If they gave you a gift, be sure to say thank you and follow up with a thank you note later. As you’re walking out of the house, be sure to thank them for having you over. Those two magic words can go a long way in showing you’re polite, considerate, and grateful.
See, we told you that impressing their parents over the holidays wouldn’t be that hard. You don’t have to stress it because we know you’ll do just fine and make a great impression on them and solidify your relationship.
If you’re single and want to meet relationship-minded singles in New Jersey, contact our New Jersey Singles matchmakers and let us introduce you to that special someone. Call 1 (888) 417-0020 to book your FREE matchmaking consultation today!