Introducing Your New (Post-Divorce) Girlfriend to the Family

Introducing your girlfriend to your family is a big step. There are a few things you should keep in mind when doing so.

The comparison. Your family will compare your girlfriend to your ex-wife; it's nearly guaranteed. Let's make the comparison a positive experience. Make sure your girlfriend is dressed appropriately. You don't need to have her dress up like a Sunday school teacher but you don't want her dressed like those women on the street corner, either. Simply have her wear something that she would wear to church and not a nightclub.

Conversation. If your girlfriend isn't the mental giant that your ex-wife was, that's OK. Just keep the conversation simple. Mention where the two of you met, where you like to eat, what attracted you to her, etc. It won't hurt to give your family a heads up on some conversation topics that your girlfriend is comfortable with.

The event. Just how is she meeting your family? Is it dinner at home? That's fine if your girlfriend is relaxed and has one of those bubbly personalities. However, if she's a bit shy, an intimate dinner at the family home may not be the best situation. That includes Thanksgiving, Easter and Christmas dinners. Those things are more appropriate for family only. A family fourth of July barbeque is a good place for her to meet the family, though. Yep, even Uncle Ed who is likely to get all drunk and loud, dance, and flirt with the ladies. Believe it or not, that will break the ice really quickly. Weddings are an excellent place, as well. If your first cousin or your niece is getting married, it's likely that mom and dad, brothers and sisters, and everyone else will be there. Drink may be flowing so that will loosen everyone up. And of course with the wedding and all, it's likely that you and your girlfriend will get all affectionate at the reception. That's great. Doing that will show the family how good the two of you look together and how much you care for one another. Just make sure to keep it rated PG.

You're embarking on a new beginning. It's a scary time but an exciting time. It calls for a celebration with family. Don't worry, mate. It's likely that your family will adore her and be happy that you have found someone so special. So take your girlfriend, break bread, sip some wine, and let your family get to know this wonderful new woman that you are with. Let your new girlfriend get to know the people who made you into the man you are today.