6 Ways to Score Points When Meeting Your Boyfriend's Parents

So it's time to meet your boyfriend's parents. Obviously you want to give the best impression possible, so here are some tips to get you into your possible future in -laws' graces.

1. Dress the part.

Believe it or not, it's not always the best idea to throw on your nicest skirt, or prettiest sweater. What if his parents met on a hippie commune, or maybe an animal rights convention? Might want to rethink those leather boots or that fur coat. You might think you can make an educated guess about their tastes just by knowing your boyfriend, but sometimes the apple really does fall far from the tree. Sometimes business suit guys come from a real t shirt and jeans family, and they might perceive anything beyond that as uptight or snobby. If you really can't get a hint from your boyfriend (yes this is very common), go with what you'd wear to your own family reunion, that's a good rule of thumb.

2. Smile

It is possible to forget to do this. Don't let your nerves give his parents the impression that you're not having a good time. Most of the night will be light conversation, so smile and laugh at their jokes, though don't overdo it too much.

3. Compliment them

Compliments like "You have a beautiful home" are standard, but let's face it, you're there to win over mom, so target her directly. Compliment her earrings or her shoes, something that makes her feel like she's still got an eye for fashion, she'll be glad you noticed.

4. Resist the urge to talk about yourself too much.

Sure they'll be asking you questions about yourself the whole time you're there, but resist the urge to go on and on about yourself. Self-defacing humor goes a long way too, and will make you seem really down to earth.

5. Read the headlines before heading over.

It's always good to be informed, but it's great to have a good arsenal of conversational topics. Plus, you don't want to be the only one at the table that doesn't "get it."

6. Bonus points:

Bake something. Can't bake? Have a friend that bakes come over and help, then go ahead and take all the credit. Creating something for the occcasion is an age old way to greet new people, and for a good reason. No one hates when someone shows up with baked goods. Plus, this will be a quick jump into dad's graces.

These tips should make for a pleasant evening. Even if you have the stereotypical sitcom "mother-in-law" type experience, at least deal with it in her presence. After all, it's his family, and therefore part of the deal. Most of all, just be yourself because if he loves you, chances are they will too.