Dating: Meeting the Family

By  Geanice Gee,  M.A.

Let's say, you've been dating someone for a few months, and now you think it would be a good idea to introduce this person to your loved ones. As we all know, dating someone new is an exciting experience. As a result, most people would like to share this excitement by introducing this new love interest to their friends and family.

However, when introducing someone to your friends and family, you must handle this situation delicately. In other words, it would be best to introduce this person at the right time and at the right place. In fact, you wouldn't want to risk losing your relationship with your partner, friends or any of your family members. So, in order to make the smoothest transition possible, there are a few tips that you could follow:

  

• Develop the relationship to the point that you know that it's going somewhere before introducing this person to your friends or family; each party should be equally committed (invested) in the relationship, and see a future with one another.   

• Never bring this person to a big event, such as a wedding, birthday party, or family gathering; instead bring your new love interest to a small gathering, such as a dinner at a restaurant or a church service.  

• Introduce your partner to each friend or family member individually. Remember not to disclose too much personal information about your partner, such as previous relationships, marital status, children, or occupation. 

• Try not to leave your partner by themselves at the first meeting; this can make your partner feel uncomfortable or awkward.