How to Spend the Holidays With Your Partner's Family

Spending the holidays with your partner's family can be exciting and nerve-racking. A little preparation helps you relax and make a good impression.

Before you go

• Ask your partner about family traditions, names and topics to avoid.
• Agree on how long you'll stay and where you'll sleep.
• Bring a thoughtful host gift, like flowers, chocolates or something homemade.

During the visit

1. Offer to help: setting the table or washing up goes a long way.
2. Ask questions: people love talking about their traditions and stories.
3. Join in: games, walks and family activities.
4. Respect house rules, even if they're different from yours.

Taking a break

It's fine to step outside for a short walk or have some quiet time. Holidays can be intense for everyone.

Splitting holidays

Many couples alternate years between families, or split days, like Christmas Eve with one family and Christmas Day with the other. Decide together and stay flexible.

Above all, be yourself. Your partner's family wants to get to know the real you.