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Relationships: Multi-generation family prepares dinner in kitchen.

Source: fstop123 / Getty

You and your significant other have been dating for a while now, and it’s safe to say things are getting pretty serious. You’ve already met all of his friends, went on exotic BAEcations, and know everything there is to know about your boo.

Sounds like you’re ready to take things to the next level and what better time to do that than during the holiday season?

Spending the holidays with your boyfriend’s family can be a both exciting and stressful experience, especially if you’re meeting the entire clan for the very first time. Not only will you get fully acquainted with mom, dad, and all of his siblings but you’re also prone to meet distant cousins, aunts, uncles, and family friends you’ve only heard stories about. We get it, keeping your boo happy while trying to impress his family can be pretty nerve wrecking, especially when you’re trying to stuff your face and not appear too nervous at the same time. In order to ease your nerves ahead of turkey day, we’ve developed a few useful tips on how to survive the first holiday with your significant other’s family.

1. Date Prep

First things first, you’ll want to make sure that you’re fully prepared and know exactly what you’re walking into. Knowing what topics to avoid, who will be there, what they like (and don’t like), if they’re religious, etc. are good pieces of information to have on hand before walking into Thanksgiving dinner. The last thing you’ll want to do is bring up a topic that may be a touchy subject for his family and make an uncomfortable situation for you and your boo. To sum it up: do you homework on the family and you’ll be surprised at how much more at ease you’ll feel walking into the unknown!

2. Don’t Come Empty Handed

Your mother taught you better than that! If you and your boyfriend weren’t in charge of food prep, it’s nice to bring a small and thoughtful gift. A bottle of wine, flowers, or maybe an additional dessert will suffice, just enough to show your appreciation (and that you have some home training).

3. Dress Code

This is a great conversation to have with your date before hand just because every family is different. It might be wise to find out what a traditional family Thanksgiving looks like so you’ll have an idea of what everyone else will be wearing so you can dress accordingly. Whatever you decide to wear, keep it classy, simple yet cute!

4. Mix and Mingle

Sure, being thrown into a situation where you barely know anybody can be quite terrifying however, it’s also a great opportunity for you to get to know various members of your boyfriend’s family on a personal level. Earn yourself extra points with his family by being engaging and attentive! Spark conversations, ask questions and also don’t be afraid to talk about yourself as well! After all, his family is looking to get to know you as much as you’re looking to get to know them.

5. Last But Not Least, Have Fun!

Perhaps the most important tip on this list! The holidays are supposed to be fun, relaxing and full of love! Focus on enjoying this time together and make the most out of this new experience. Once you get into your groove with your boo’s family, you’ll feel right at home in no time.

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