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Prepare -

Before you go meet their parents, you will probably know quite a bit about them from conversations through time. It's probably a good idea to brush up on some important points about them before you meet, just to be sure.

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Know their interests -

It's all the better if you have something in common with their parents. For example, you might learn that they love dancing as you do, so you could schedule an event to attend that you're sure they would enjoy.

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Know what to avoid -

Going into the situation knowing a little bit about what could bother them is the best weapon to have in your arsenal. Maybe they hate changing plans. Maybe it really bothers them to not have reservations for a restaurant.

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Research -

You need to judge for yourself whether you are going too far here, but maybe seeing a few photos or recent posts can give you a gist of what their parents are like.

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Manners -

This is palm-to-forehead territory for meeting your significant other's parents. Nobody wants to hear you slurp. Nobody wants to watch you eat with your mouth open.

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Put the phone away -

It is outright disrespectful to be giving someone that you barely know anything less than your undivided attention.

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Know the plan -

It's a good idea to show up on the day knowing what the plan is so that you're not like a lost puppy asking every few hours what to do next. It allows you to conduct yourself in an easygoing fashion.

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Lend a hand -

It goes without saying that this is a good idea when you're in any social situation where the host has to prepare food or tidy up. They want their son/daughter to be with someone who is selfless and kind. It doesn't just apply to mealtimes. You can offer to mow the lawn or take out the trash.

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Do what you can -

Maybe you're a good cook. Maybe you're a wizard with technology and can sort out the family computer. Do what you can to lend a helping hand.

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Dress appropriately -

It doesn't have to be suit and tie. In fact, that would be a little bit overboard. People often stress about this one. It's best to pick something that's smart but not too formal, and not to overthink it.

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Don't be afraid to ask -

If there's an occasion that you're supposed to attend with their parents, don't be afraid to ask what you should wear. It shows that you care and want to be respectful and dress appropriately.

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Gifts never hurt -

Deep down we are all quite childlike and enjoy receiving gifts. It's best to not arrive empty-handed if you are staying with their parents.

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It's the thought that counts -

Keep in mind that the gift that you give doesn't have to be expensive. It doesn't have to be fancy. What it should be is thoughtful and personal. However, even a box of chocolates is better than nothing.

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Avoid polarizing topics -

Unless you are absolutely sure that everyone (including the parents themselves) is on the same page about topics like religion and politics, why dive into these kinds of conversations during a first meeting?

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Keep it light -

Following up from the previous point, you should try your best to keep things light and fun. People always remember how you make them feel, and their parents are human just liken the rest of us.

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Don't be afraid to ask questions -

People generally like when you take an interest in them. It doesn't have to be forced, but if there's something that intrigues you about their parents–whether it be how they met or about their work–you should ask.

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Smile -

When you're smiling, the world smiles with you, or so the song goes. Don't forget to let yourself be happy and smile around their parents.

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Gauge the vibe -

Rude jokes or stories that you would tell your friends at a bar are far from ideal. Even though your significant other may have told you plenty of stories about their parents that indicate they're easygoing and like a rude joke, it's best to avoid this until you know them a little better.

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Show some love -

This means show them that you love their son/daughter. That is probably the most important thing in the entire equation. If the parents get a sense that you don't care about their child, then it's bad news.

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Be careful with PDA -

Public displays of affection are viewed as cute by some people and as revolting by others. It's probably best to keep it to a minimum.

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Leave a letter or a note if they host you -

If you're staying at their home, it's a great idea to leave a note or letter expressing your gratitude.

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Don't overthink -

When you are uneasy, people can sense it, which makes them uneasy. There is no reason to be racking your brain and worrying about meeting anyone. If you find yourself worrying, try exercising, meditating, or practicing some mindfulness activities.

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Don't lie -

You cannot build a good relationship based on lies. It's natural that you may want to embellish a few things about yourself, but don't go overboard.

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Trust yourself and know your worth -

You have intrinsic worth as a human being, and no lack of status, wealth, or a specific quality diminishes this point.

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You have no reason to not be confident -

You should be confident in yourself when meeting your partner's parents, as you should be with everyone else.

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Set boundaries -

To avoid awkwardness, it's best to choose an activity that can end. Beginning with a two-week holiday is probably too much if you've never met them before!

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Have an excuse -

If there's an argument, or if for any other reason you feel it's better that you excuse yourself a little earlier than expected, have a good excuse ready.

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The odds are in your favor -

Remember that there are significantly high odds that they are rooting for you if you're making their son/daughter happy.

Sources: (Cosmopolitan) (Vogue)

See also: Dating advice from professional matchmakers

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