4 Tips to Win Over His Family During the Holidays

Meeting the parents during the holiday season can be a bit intimidating, but making a good first impression with your significant other’s family is easier than you think. Here are four tips to help you navigate the holidays and get on the family’s good side.

1. Find out the holiday dress code.

People will judge you by your appearance first, and meeting your boyfriend’s family (and extended family) is no exception. Ask him what he’s planning on wearing for the holiday and then plan your outfit around his. Your SO may be oblivious when it comes to the difference between your nude pumps and your beige peep-toe heels, but give him a little credit — chances are he can tell you if you look too casual or too dressy for the event he’s attended his whole life (hopefully). If all else fails, make a quick phone call to his parents, thank them for the invitation, and ask about their holiday dress code.

2. Bring a DIY gift or dessert.

You’ve probably heard this one before, but one way to make a great first impression is to never show up empty-handed. A DIY hostess gift like tile photo coasters are small and personal, cost less than $5 to make, and are sure to get a smile of approval. However, you can’t go wrong with a chic store-bought gift either. The gesture alone will go a long way! If you’re leaning toward making a dessert, an apple galette and a classic pumpkin pie are both crowd-pleasers. Just be sure to find out if anyone has an allergy.

3. Be part of the conversation.

Don’t worry about hanging on your guy’s arm all night; he already likes you, so instead try to talk to the rest of his family. They want to get to know you, so let them! Plus, it shows you’re independent and as interested in them as they are in you. Don’t forget to gauge the family’s humor level before telling your slightly inappropriate holiday joke or that story about the time you and their son got wasted on Spring break.

4. Keep your holiday sex-escapades to a minimum.

Seeing you charm his family might have gotten him turned on, but the last thing you want them to remember you for are the noises coming out of their son’s childhood bedroom, not to mention it makes for an extremely awkward holiday brunch. For all intents and purposes, it might be best to keep your hands to yourself until you’re out from under his parents’ roof.