Meeting your partner's parents for the first time can be nerve-wracking, but following some basic tips will help make a great first impression. Be respectful, use manners, engage in polite small talk, and dress appropriately for the occasion. Avoid being on your phone too much or having loud notifications interrupt conversations. Bringing a homemade gift, like baked goods, shows effort was made without the risk of alcohol. Ask your partner about their parents' interests beforehand so you have solid conversation topics prepared. With confidence and good etiquette, you are sure to leave them wanting to invite you back again.

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Guide to Meeting the Parents
Elise Romero | Special Features Editor-in-Chief
Valentine?s Day is approaching, and if you survived the holiday season, your relationship is
steady and ready for the next step; meeting the parents. If you and your boo are getting serious, you
need to know how to make the perfect first impression. Take it from me, a single person who has
exclusively met her partner?s parents a couple times and made a fool of herself.
It may seem obvious, but the most important tip is to be respectful. Even if they insist you call them by
their first names, Mister and Missus are the backbone of a good first impression. Along with using basic manners,
small talk and appropriate compliments will always bring a smile to a parents?face. For example, compliment
home decor, talk about pets, or say anything that comes up naturally. However, don?t try and be someone other
than yourself. If you force anything, your relationship with the parents will be stiff and awkward instead of amicable
and easy. Being outgoing and friendly will leave a lasting, positive memory.
Dressing well will help you present yourself in the best light. Save your joggers, jeans with holes, and over
sized sweatshirts for every other day of the year. Raid your closet for sweaters, slacks, jeans, or a
button-up/blouse. If it?s something you?d wear for a nice dinner, it?s something you should wear for their parents. If
you have doubts, ask your friends, mom, or if you?re really desperate, Pinterest. Wearing a nice outfit shows them
that you care about your appearance, and as superficial as it is, it will give them a sense that you?re responsible
and respectful by association.
Don?t be on your phone too much, it comes off as disrespectful and will definitely cause some ?kids these
days?thoughts. It also may make your lover think you have a side piece, and that will cause conflict beyond just
the parents. Along with keeping your phone away, make sure your notifications are off so it doesn?t interrupt your
conversation. No one wants to hear a loud ding in the middle of any conversation, especially near-boomer aged
adults.
Bring a gift for the parents that is appropriate. Older couples typically gift alcohol, but it may raise some
eyebrows if you gift them with something you can?t legally purchase. Instead, try baking something. It shows that
time and effort were put into the gift and it?ll be even better if you make something edible.
If you?re still feeling nervous, ask your partner about what their parents like so you know solid conversation
topics to bring up. Having a clear idea of what to talk about is a great way to come in prepared without scrambling.
Don?t hesitate to communicate with your partner about your worries or concerns.
You?re now ready to meet your partner?s parents. With confidence and a level head, you?re sure to
leave a good impression that has them inviting you over again and again. And though you may
not think I?m a credible source, studies on relationships prove that first impressions can last
for months.