Meet the Parents

In movies, actors overplay the scene where they find the parents of their significant other or in-laws completely intolerable. Yet, for most people in serious relationships, meeting the parents is a sign the relationship is progressing and many look forward to the awkward handshakes, little small talk and eventual comfort of meeting those you hear so much about.

However, in certain instances, some find themselves surprised at the warm receptions and common ground, but what if you really can't connect? There is the 'oh, you like that too!' or 'definitely, me too' that comes with trying to impress and bond with those that have such major influence over the future of your relationship.

When you are sitting across the dinner table and you look up to find them studying your moves, your face and your interaction with their son or daughter, it can be a bit intimidating.

However with these helpful hints, you are sure to find success and leave that house as 'one of the family.'

1. Bring a gift.
— A nice gesture like a bottle of wine or cookies could easily send off the right message. It says that you are excited to meet them and want them to know that you were thinking about how best to set off your first impression.

2. Talk about your signifcant other's childhood with their mom.
— Showing interest in something mothers have no problem with sharing shows that you want to get to know her and at the same time know how much she loves her son or daughter. Always laughing at cute baby stories or making fun of your partner with the embarassing ones shows a playful side that most moms love to see.

3. Play a game.
— Playing board games or card games allows you to really bond with the family while really having a good time doing it. Seeing that competitive or hardball side really can create a family fun situation and lets them see a side of you that normally your partner only sees. It takes you out of the stiff, awkward couch sitting into a fun interactive game night.

4. Help with the dishes.
— Little things like helping clean up or doing the dishes shows that you are appreciative of the parents cooking dinner for you and having you at their house. It shows that you aren't afraid to get your hands dirty and that you really don't mind showing them that you are down-to-earth and willing to help, even when their son or daughter isn't.

Finally,
5. Say thank you for everything, multiple times.
— Showing that you geniuely appreciate what they are doing to help welcome you re-enforces that they are doing a good job and that you like them which ultimately pleases them and makes them like you more. Never be afraid over over-doing it because saying thank you never made anyway upset.

If you hit all five of these points, there is no way that they won't fall head over heels in love with you just like you are over their son or daughter.