CRUSHES

There’s no denying that you and your S/O are super serious. You call them cute names, they finish your sentences and their friends adore the fact that the two of you are together. But the step you’re about to take may be the most serious thing you’ve done so far. Meeting your sweetie’s family is, in itself, a pretty stressful sitch, so we totally get why doing it during the season of snowmen and sentimental moments has you feeling a li'l nervous. Worried about what you should do when the big moment finally comes? Here’s how to make a merry first impression. 

Bring a small gift

If you’ve already picked out the perf present for your sweetie, then you’re ahead of the gift game. Take things to the next level by brainstorming a few present options for their fam. Don’t worry about gathering together an over-the-top gift! Instead, bring along something small that’ll brighten their moods without blowing all your money. We suggest flowers, cookies or a box of chocolates. 

Choose politeness over PDA

As much as you love snuggling with your sweetie, the dinner table’s not the place for playing footsie or getting too touchy-feely. It is, however, a chance for you to channel polite vibes. Now, we’re not saying that you should change who you are—personality is key! But it’s important to remember that little words like please and thank you can go a long way.

Chat with everyone

Your cutie probably told you all the most important points about their family members. Therefore, your first meeting with them is an awesome opportunity to finally put faces to the stories and find out more. Maybe their younger sis is training to be the next Simone Biles. Perhaps their Uncle Pat has his own clothing business. No matter how large or small the detail, dedicating time to getting to know your sweetie’s relatives will really ramp up your relationship.

Share your appreciation

The bond between you and your bae is clearly tight, so tell their fam how thankful you are for it. Has your sweetie ever called to say goodnight or brought over your books and homework when you were sick? Letting their relatives know what it’s like to date them (as well as calling attention to how much you like them) is a great way to start off on the right foot with everyone because they’ll be able to gain a better understanding of your relationship. 

Relax!

Seriously, we can’t emphasize this enough. You might be intimidated. You might have no idea what to say at certain points. Heck, you might even do all of these things and *still* feel nervous. The best way to break free of those nerves is to keep calm and continue to be yourself. Your date digs you, and they’ve likely done an excellent job of conveying that to their fam. All you have to do is exactly what you’ve been doing throughout your relationship. Well, with the exception of kissing. Save those smooches for later.

Have you met your S/O’s family? How did it go?!

by Megan Sawey | 11/16/2016