The holidays are a joyous time of year, but they can also be stressful if you are spending the holidays with your partner’s family for the first time. Meeting your partner’s family is a big deal, especially during the holiday season. Keep reading for some of our best tips!
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Prep Yourself – Learn the Family Dynamic
Before the festivities, talk to your partner about family dynamics. Discuss the personalities you’ll meet, their expectations, and topics to discuss or avoid. Ask your partner for advice on connecting with each family member and learning about house “rules.”
Discuss Concerns
During your talk, discuss any doubts or concerns about the upcoming event. For example, there might be political or religious differences, or you could be concerned about how they perceive you based on your profession or appearance. Anxiety when meeting your significant other’s family is normal; just make sure to discuss these concerns in advance to ease your mind.
Be Mindful of Your Attire
Based on your discussion with your partner, be mindful of your attire. How you dress should be appropriate for the people you’ll meet. You may need to dress more conservatively, dressier, or more casual based on the event’s formality. Check with your partner if there is a theme (i.e., an ugly sweater party); you don’t want to be the only one not participating.
Don’t Show Up Empty-Handed
Bring a small gift as a token of appreciation for the host(s), whether it’s flowers, a side dish, a dessert, a candle, or something else your partner may suggest. You might think, “But I’m already bringing a (holiday) present!” Yes, you are, but you should also be considerate of the host because they are opening their home to you.
Offer to Help Out
Ask how and when you can help. It is a gesture that will not soon be forgotten. Roll up your sleeves and help set up or clear the table after a meal. If your partner’s family says they want you to feel like a guest, don’t insist on helping, as a boundary has been set. They will appreciate your offer whether they take you up on it or not.
Be Respectful of Holiday Traditions
Remember, your partner’s family will have different holiday traditions from your own, which should be discussed with your partner ahead of time when they give you the low down on the family dynamic.