Bringing a significant other home for the holidays to meet the family for the first time is a big deal. First impressions are important and no matter how much you love Mr. Wonderful, to your family he’s still a stranger. Consider these simple guidelines and set him up for success (or at least minimal disaster):

Let him know what to expect. Talk it out beforehand, the good the bad and the ugly. Give him a picture of what holidays are like at your house — is it a crazy house packed full of every relative you have (screaming kids included), or is it a quiet occasion with just your immediate family? Also be sure to clue him in on any topics that might be dangerous or taboo (religion, politics…) and any sensitive issues like a family member who’s a recovering alcoholic or just got laid off from a job.

Share your fears. You have at least a few “worst case scenarios” running through your head, so share them with him. Get ‘em all out there. Not only will you feel better after venting, but he might be inspired to share some of his worst fears too and you both can talk your worries out (or at the very least have a good laugh).

Have an emergency plan. Talk about how you’ll both handle things if the worst does happen. Depending on the scenario do you want to confront the situation on the spot, try to laugh it off, or some other option?

Make sure he brings a gift. It doesn’t have to be anything big, just a token thank you for the hostess, but a lot of guys won’t even think to bring something let alone have any idea what it should be. So give him some ideas what your mom or your family would like, and go along shopping with him if you need to, just make sure he brings something good.

Source: www.boston.com