13 Dos and Don'ts for Impressing the In-Laws

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By Laura Vitto2013-07-21 20:32:26 UTC

So you met someone, things became serious and you both decided to get married. Congratulations!

But remember what they say: You don't just marry a person, you marry their whole family. Oftentimes, a weird, dysfunctional and overwhelming family. More specifically, the in-laws.

See also: Maid of Honor Loses Herself in Eminem-Inspired Wedding Toast

Navigating the challenges of getting to know your in-laws is an especially tricky task — one that requires much patience. You must always be on your game, lest you slip up and become the subject of disapproving looks from across the dinner table.

These 13 dos and don'ts will get you on track for the coveted title of favorite son or daughter-in-law.

1. DO ask for seconds (even thirds!) of whatever homemade meal they've served.

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Even if you're completely stuffed, or your father-in-law's cooking is absolutely terrible.

2. DO dress to impress.

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3. DO ask them about their hobbies

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Even if you think those hobbies are incredibly dull.

4. DON'T make references to being intimate with your significant other

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Your S.O. is a perfect, untouched angel as far as they're concerned. Plus that's just weird.

5. DO smile and nod, even when you have no idea what they're talking about.

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Language-barrier? Talks too quietly? Confused in general? Fake it, 'til you make it.

6. DON'T give your in-laws an in depth description of what you do.

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Lest you want to overhear them telling friends, "She helps her company with their tweeting."

7. DO offer to help with everything.

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Take out the trash, wash the dishes, re-tile the shower. They'll appreciate having you around once they realize how useful you are.

8. DON'T blow off plans to spend time with them

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Your mother-in-law will always look back fondly on the hours you've spent shopping for plants with her.

9. DO keep your head down when your great-grandmother-in-law is saying something politically incorrect.

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Though it can sometimes feel impossible, just grit your teeth and bare it.

10. DO call them regularly.

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11. DON'T let them suck you into a political argument over Facebook.

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The snarky comment on your voting day status is inevitable, so avoid engaging at all costs.

12. DO bring grandparents-in-law presents.

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Everyone loves presents. They're the quickest way to grandma's heart.

13. Finally, if you've followed these suggestions and the in-laws are still unimpressed, DO be prepared to defend yourself.

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What are your in-law dos and don'ts? Share with us in the comments.

Image: Flickr, Christine ™

Topics: GIFs, in-laws, marriage, parents, Watercooler