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7 expert tips to impress your new partner’s parents, from a dating coach
You’ve been dating someone new for a few months and everything is going well. You really like them and things are starting to get a bit more serious because they just asked you to meet their parents. Help!
Meeting the parents for the first time is the scariest part of dating. You want to impress them and prove that you’re the perfect person to be with their child, but how do you do that? An expert has shared some helpful tips.
7 tips to impress your new partner’s parents
Dating coach and professional matchmaker April Davis says meeting the parents doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. Following these seven tips will ensure everything goes smoothly and you don’t embarrass yourself.
1. Do your research
Firstly, it’s important to do your research by getting the lowdown from your partner. Knowledge is power, so get all the details before you go to make things easier. Learn everyone’s names, find out if they are formal or informal, and ask what sport they are into or music they like. Knowing things ahead of time gives you the upper hand and makes a good first impression.
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2. Think about your outfit
Your outfit will depend on where the first meeting is, but you should always dress respectfully. Wear something polished and comfortable, looking nice without seeming like you’re trying too hard. Remember, it’s not just about your clothes either. Make sure you have good hygiene and put a smile on your face – which is the best thing you can wear.
3. Keep conversations light
One of the scariest parts of meeting someone’s parents is wondering what you will talk about. It’s best to keep things light, discussing things like hobbies, travel and sports, and you’ll get bonus points if you talk about things you know they love. This isn’t the time to go into deep philosophical debates or talk about politics.
4. Be yourself
Another really important tip is to be yourself. Don’t try and pretend you are someone else just to impress them, because you won’t be able to keep up with the facade and they will see right through your act. Be polite, friendly, and let your personality shine through. Remember, no one is perfect and they won’t expect you to be.
5. Small acts of kindness
Simple gestures are a great way to put on a good impression in front of your potential future in-laws, like offering to help set the table or asking if they need help peeling the potatoes. These small acts of kindness speak volumes, showing off your kind and genuine personality and subtly communicating your values.
6. Be a good listener
Another easy way to impress the parents is to show that you’re a great listener. Pay attention to everything they are saying and ask questions to prove that you are interested and try not to drift off. Making comments about your partner is also a great way to show you care about the relationship they have with their family.
7. Share your own stories
Many make the mistake of sitting there quietly and not joining in with the conversation, but opening up about your own stories is a great way to connect. Don’t be nervous to chip in when there’s an opportunity and open up about your own family, which can create common ground and show them you also value close family ties.
April Davis founded LUMA Luxury Matchmaking, a high-end matchmaking service that caters to professionals, executives, and millionaires who are serious about finding a long-term partner.
