How to Meet the In-Laws

If you're not marrying your high school sweetheart, one of the hardest things you have to do before the big day (hopefully not too long after your engagement) is to meet your new in-laws. While this may be a major source of stress, there are things you can do before, during and after you meet your beloved's family that will ease the meeting and ensure they're crazy about you too.

Things You'll Need

• One sleeping pill
• Beautiful manners
• Thank you card

Instructions

Set the Scene

1. Bite the bullet. Don't wait too long after the engagement to meet your new in-laws; the longer you wait, the more difficult it will be.

2. Do your homework. Talk to your fiancé about your in-laws' likes and dislikes, strongest opinions and (if you're cooking) food allergies or diet restrictions.

3. Get a good night's sleep. Everything is easier if you're not running on empty. If you are espcially nervous about the initial meeting, it may be a good idea to take a sleeping pill the night before.

Work the Room

1. Bring something. If you're celebrating your engagement at your in-laws' house, bring flowers, a nice bottle of wine or some other suitable gift.

2. Mind your manners. Having good manners means being thoughtful and doing what makes the other person comfortable. Slurping your soup if everyone else is, is much better than acting shocked at their behavior.

3. Reach out. Try to get to know these people that you are meeting. You may be spending a lot of time with them; so you might as well try to become friends.

4. Take a time out. If the atmosphere gets tense, volunteer to clear the table, do the dishes, walk the dog or do something that lets you leave the room for a few minutes. Get your head together before you return.

Polish Your Image

1. Keep in touch. Send a thank you note the next day if it's appropriate. Or simply drop a card in the mail telling your in-laws you enjoyed meeting them. (A little white lie sometimes works miracles.)

2. Write their birthdays and anniversary on the calendar. Everyone will be impressed if you remember your in-laws' important occasions.

3. Stay positive. Complaining about your in-laws only amplifies their faults. Focus on their good points and they will become easier to like.