Getting to know your partner’s parents
There are few things more stressful in life than meeting your partner’s parents. They’re a big part of your partner’s life and, obviously, you want them to like you. That’s why their first impression of you is so important. It’s a big deal. And when they live far away, it becomes an even bigger deal. When they’re only in town for a few days, it’s not only important that you get to know them, you have to entertain them as well.
So, how do you get them to like you straight away?
Take them somewhere relaxing
Busy and loud places can make people feel irritable or aggressive. That’s why it’s a good idea to take them somewhere relaxing on the first day. Check out the wine farms in Cape Town and make a day of it. You could also go on a leisurely boat ride around the V&A Waterfront. There are so many options in and around the Western Cape that you won’t struggle to find an activity they’ll enjoy. Just check with your partner before creating an itinerary as they’ll likely know what their parents like and dislike.
Take them to a show
Whether it’s a musical performance at their hotel or a well-funded theatrical production, it doesn’t really matter. In fact, it doesn’t even matter if they like it or not. The point is that it will give you something to talk about afterwards. You can rave about it together or criticise it from beginning to end. Either way, it’s unlikely they won’t have anything to say about it. Maybe even consider agreeing with them just for the sake of it (it’ll give you something to bond over).
Give them a personal tour
You’re dating their son or daughter, so they’ll want to get to know you. But you probably don’t want to sit there and talk about yourself for hours on end. So show them some of your favourite restaurants and coffee shops. Or, if you grew up in Cape Town, show them where you spent your childhood. Just don’t spend too much time taking them on a tour of your life. That might come off as a little self-absorbed.
Let them take the lead
Although they’ll appreciate the effort you’ve made, they might not want their entire trip planned out for them. So, make an effort to ask them where they’d like to go and what they’d like to do. They’re there to see your partner, so try to give them some alone time as well.
No matter what you end up doing, your partner’s parents will probably appreciate that you put so much effort in their visit. You love their son or daughter and that’s the most important thing to them. Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still try to impress them… just don’t try too hard.