Business casual will include slacks or khakis and a button down or a dress. Opt for closed toed shoes, as well.
For instance, if she tells you that her mom is a neat freak, you will want to be as clean as possible when meeting her. Know their first names and make special note of their last names and if they are different if they’re unmarried or divorced.
If you and your girlfriend live together, don’t expect her to do all the cleaning and cooking when her parents visit. Contribute an equal amount.
You can respond by saying something like “I really like your daughter. She’s a wonderful person and you all did a great job raising her. I have nothing but the best intentions for her. ”
If you’re meeting them at their home, be exactly on time. Don’t arrive early - they might still be preparing for your visit. If meeting them at an event or restaurant, arrive a few minutes early to greet them.
If her father likes to shake hands, extend your hand to him when you meet. Give him a firm handshake, but not too firm. When in doubt, wait to see how they greet you. Many parents will shake hands or hug without you initiating.
Find out if her mother is married before greeting her. Mrs. is the formal greeting for married women. Ms. is for unmarried women.
Try not to kiss her in the lips in front of her parents, but do put your arm around her or hold her hand.
If you’re feeling nervous the day of meeting them, try doing a 30-minute session of cardio earlier in the day. Go jogging or ride a bike. Even a brisk walk will help get rid of your nerves.
If you have to keep your phone on for work, let them know. Say “If my phone rings, I want to apologize in advance. I’m actually on call tonight at work. ”
Eat if they cooked for you unless you have dietary restrictions. Turning food down can be seen as a sign of disrespect. Ask if you can help with the dishes when eating in their home. Be sure to clean up after yourself, too. If you spill anything or leave crumbs, use your napkin to wipe it up. If you went out to a restaurant with them, pay if you’re financially able to. Be careful when drinking alcohol. Only accept a drink if you are of legal age. You may wish to avoid drinking at all unless you are offered a drink. Even then, avoid drinking too much.
You might say “Oh, you watch Insecure, too? That’s one of my favorite shows. Are you Team Issa or Team Lawrence?”
For instance, instead of asking what college they went to, you can say “Kelsey tells me you went to Duke. Did you have a good experience there or go to any basketball games?”
Say something like “Sarah was telling me about the beach trip that you all went on where she was pinched by a crab. Do you have any other funny stories about her growing up?”
