Michigan Journal

Issue date: 12/4/07 Section: Features

Media Credit: Google Although your significant other's parents may not be as bad as Greg Focker's inlaws in "Meet the Parents", brushing up on this list of dos and don'ts will guarantee the first impression you make to be an outstanding one.

Stress is a given during the holiday season. With the insanity of the malls, traveling in winter weather and seeing family, it's a wonder that we all don't curl up in the fetal position and refuse to venture out. But what if you have the ultimate stressor? Meeting a significant other's parents is scary enough, but meeting them during the holidays can be downright intimidating.
There is a certain expectation when you meet his or her parents during the holidays. They are bringing you home to share an important day. It makes your relationship solid, maybe even mature. Avoiding screw ups when meeting the parents on this day is a must. Luckily for you, there are some helpful hints.

Dress to Impress,
But Not Too
Impressive

You might love those jeans with holes in the knees paired with your Insane Clown Posse t-shirt and ratty hooded jacket, but leave them in the closet when meeting the parents on Christmas. Dress nice, but not too nice. A skirt or slacks and a nice sweater is suggested for the ladies, and a button-up shirt for the guys, but don't wear a tie. If your shirt doesn't have a collar, you may want to rethink what you are wearing.

Don't Go Nuts With Grooming

If you don't put your hair up into a beehive every day, don't do it today. The name of the game is simplicity; you want to look like your natural self. Don't douse yourself in cologne or cover yourself in sparkles. If you over-do your make up or hair, your love's parents are going to notice it. You want parents to be comfortable with you and too much grooming can be decidedly uncomfortable.

Bring a Gift

This is a big one. If you are going for dinner or a party, bring wine or flowers. Something that is impersonal but still appreciated. Have your sweetheart ask ahead of time if there is anything you can bring. Gifts are also great icebreakers and displays good manners. Always check with your host first! Bringing the wrong wine is a minor faux pas, but a faux pas nonetheless.

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