Ben Skute
Parents aren’t always going to be tough to win over! But they do usually have one thing at the front of their minds at all times: the well-being and happiness of their child. If a long-term, serious relationship with their son is the goal, show them you are more than able to be the supportive, capable partner they’ve envisioned.
A great way to do this is to offer to host them in your own home. Relax — you don’t have to put on a June Cleaver act, but you can show them that their son is going to have a caring partner and even a great home life with you someday. It’s a bit nerve-wracking, but will reassure them that you are organized and competent, and able to share in homemaking responsibilities.
Picture Mom and Dad watching your boyfriend cheerfully helping you set the table and washing the dishes while you dry. They’ll be able to see your happy relationship in action. And because your home is a reflection of you, they can really get a sense of your personality from the little touches you’ve added to your living space, instead of searching for talking points in a generic restaurant or bar. To prepare for their visit, put your best foot forward by showcasing an immaculately clean home. Then, think about staging your place in a way that highlights your hobbies and interests.
If you’re an avid reader, artfully stack a few of your most loved books on the coffee table, topped with a cute votive or knick-knack. If travel is your thing — especially with your beau — arrange some framed pictures of your happiest vacations to stimulate a fun chat about the trip.
And if you like to cook, this is a great opportunity to ask your boyfriend about their tastes in advance and try your version of their favourite dishes on them, served in pretty bowls and platters that you can nab from any discount store. Try this slam-dunk move: whatever floral arrangement you’ve made for the table, use the extras to make a mini version for them to take home at the end of the night.
Contributors: Sara Cannon from House Heroes LLC
