If you are not ready to walk down the aisle with your partner, do not bother introducing them to your parents just for the sake of doing so. It is advisable to do it when you are both ready. The right time can be determined by how accommodating your parents are, if they are not as strict then go right ahead and plan something casual. Just remember to be sure that your partner is comfortable with the idea as well. It may not be a big deal on your part, but it could be a big deal to your partner as meeting parents is a sure way to prove how committed you are to your relationship. If your parents are more formal in the sense that a dinner is called for, then perhaps you should take more time to prepare your partner beforehand so he or she knows what to expect. Either way, all parties have to be ready for the meeting if you want it to be successful.
Some parents make it very clear that they are only interested in meeting their Children’s partners only when they have decided that they want to marry them. Some parents are just that way and you cannot fault them for being so stock in their traditional ways. If you have parents like these, then it is better to play by their rules and only introduce your partner to them when things are very serious between you too. It is advisable to get more intimate so that everyone has the chance to properly get to know one another, but of course, that is the right way to go. In any case, here are 7 signs that it is probably time to meet the folks.
1 The Love is Mutual. You will know that it’s the right time to meet the parents once you both can attest that the love is mutual. There is no point in putting everyone through the stress of getting to know one another if your relationship is not going to last. These days we see people introduce different partners every now and then to their family members. Once you have decided that you are going to be joining with your partner indefinitely, it is probably the right moment to make the introduction to your parents.
2 Your partner has met your friends. If your partner has hung out with your friends on more than one occasion, then it is safe to say that he or she may be ready to meet the folks. There is less pressure when it comes to meeting a group of friends and if your partner passes with flying colours, then it’s the right time to step up your game by introducing him or her to your parents.
3 Your partner has met your other family members. Whether your partner has met other family members by chance or intentionally, once he or she has met an extended family member, it is probably time to meet the parents. For example, if you and your boyfriend run into your aunt at the supermarket and you introduced them so as not to be rude, remember that people talk and if your family is anything like such, get ready for many talks. News will spread like wildfire that your aunt met your boyfriend before your parents did.
Even though you encountered them by chance, it can lead to massive family drama, so take the bull by the horns and set up a lunch date with your parents sooner rather than later. The same can be said if you introduce your girlfriend to your sister over dinner. What makes you think your sister is not going to report everything to your mum? Expectations will be set, pre-judgments will be made and before you know it, your parents will be harping on you to introduce them to your special someone.
4 You talk about the future. Once you start thinking in terms of “us” instead of “me” then you know that the timing is right. If you see yourself being with your partner for a long time, then the next course of action is to make him or her part of your life. That means meeting the people who created you. This step will certainly make your partner happy as it serves as validation that you are taking things to the next level.
5 The idea isn’t intimidating to you. If the idea of your partner meeting your folks does not scare you out, then what are you waiting for? This is a good sign as it indicates that you are comfortable with the two family meeting and becoming one by way of marriage. Ensure that your partner feels the same way and not to push him or her if they are not ready.
6 You are proud of your partner. It is difficult to introduce your parents to your slacker boyfriend than it is to introduce them to someone who has his acts together. If you are proud of who you are with, it is inevitable that you would want everyone to know about his or her accomplishments. You want the people you care about to see just why you are so in love with this person.
7 Everyone is ready. I suppose if you cannot figure out when the “right time” is, then just take it easy and only set up a meeting once everyone is mentally ready. Speak to your parents about this special someone and gauge their reaction when you suggest a meeting. Do the same with your partner. Once you think that everyone is comfortable enough to take the next step, you will know that it is the perfect time. Meeting the parents for the first time is a huge step whether you think so or not. You will be surprised at how many relationships go awry just because the initial meeting with immediate family members did not go as planned.
As much as you love your partner, what your family thinks also carries weight, especially if you are close to them. Never underestimate a parent’s scrutiny when determining if their child is with the right person or not. Parents have a bizarre sixth sense when it comes to stuff like that, so take your time and do not rush it. You will know when the time is right.
