16 Dec, 2009

1. Keep smiling

Okay, so you don’t need to go all “Pollyanna” on their arses, but try to remember to smile through your nerves.

Wearing a happy expression will give a positive fi rst impression, and you’d be surprised at how much such a simple thing can predispose them to liking you.

2. Skip the miniskirt ...

Your pals appreciate your eye for fashion and that hot metallic miniskirt of yours.
But your potential in-laws are probably not as up-to-date with what’s going on with hemlines on the catwalks and may not be wowed.

Treat this occasion a bit like a job interview and keep the dress code conservative-chic (saving your sexier outfits for a Saturday night out).

3 ... and the wine

Volunteer to be the designated driver when you visit. This will stop you feeling tempted to have a glass of wine for a little liquid courage.

Sadly, the line between socially lubricated and completely inebriated can be one that’s very easy to topple over, so staying completely sober is your best bet. If they insist, have one glass and sip slowly.

4. Avoid controversy

In an ideal world, your boyfriend’s parents would have the exact same ideas about politics and religion as you, but the reality is you’ll probably differ in your opinions, so stay away from these potentially loaded topics.

And, even if you discover they have the most stupid, bigoted beliefs you’ve ever had the misfortune to hear, just remind yourself that it’s their son who you’re into, not them. Afterwards, keep any negative impressions or thoughts to yourself.

5. Show your boy some love

But not too much! Save your steamy make-out sessions until you get back home (or, at least, into the car), and be effusive about how great you think their son is. Because, really, all any parent wants is for their child to be happy (aww). So if they see that their boy is adored by you, they won’t be able to help being charmed.

6. Don’t arrive empty-handed

If your boyfriend’s parents are providing you with a free meal, bring along a gift. It’ll be a nice way of saying, “Thanks for filling my tummy.” Run any potential present ideas past your guy to make sure that you aren’t getting champers for a pair of teetotallers (they do exist, we swear).