You are still probably trying to absorb the idea that you will be a wife. In the next month, you will be wearing a white gown while walking radiantly down the aisle, towards the man of your dreams. But before you get to your actual wedding day, you must first attend to something very important: meeting your future in-laws.

Meeting your beau’s parents may sound pretty simple but in reality it can be quite tough and unnerving if you are meeting them for the first time. Although you are already wearing an engagement ring, having the approval of his parents will make you feel like you’re wearing another diamond on your polished fingers!

To help you with this task, here are top ten ways to impress your future in-laws:

10. Interview and Research

A week before the meeting, try to fish information from your boyfriend. This way you will learn more about his family.

Try to learn each of the member’s names and yes, that includes their dog. Get some photographs so you can recognize them before you are introduced. Ask your boyfriend what their interests are, where they work, what kind of questions you should avoid asking them, even their favorite food.

Other important information that you should know is their family traditions. Always remember that family traditions hold an important part in your fiancée’s household. So learn what these are and try to observe them when you are in the house. Family traditions may include saying grace before and after meals or greeting everyone by giving them a hug.

9. Do your homework

Once you’ve asked your fiancée about important information, now is the perfect time to do your research.

This way, you will know how to apply the valuable information.

Here’s an idea. Let’s say your fiancée tells you that his mom loves books. So what you should do is to read one of her favorite books or authors so that you have something to talk about. Try to find out something interesting about the book and share it with your future mom in law.

Same goes with his dad. Supposing his dad is interested in politics and current events, try to read as much as you can about the said topic.

8. Bring gifts

Although you may think it is a form of sucking up, do remember that giving gifts is a sign of courtesy and good manners. This is similar to giving gifts to a party hostess who was gracious enough to invite you.

This is where your research comes in handy! Ask your beau what his dad’s favorite wine is. Another idea is to bring something that you know his mom likes such as a family favorite cake flavor. Whatever you are planning to bring, always remember to be creative!

7. Be Nice

Whether you like it or not, the family dog might still rank a notch higher in the family hierarchy. So it is essential that you put your best foot forward and be nice. This does not only apply to the dog. Make an effort to be nice to the bratty brother, to the snob sister, to the house maids and even to the obnoxious uncle.

Being nice shows the entire family that you have class, breeding and of course, a kind nature.

6. Do not forget the name issue

Ask your boyfriend how his parents should be addressed. Of course, you wouldn’t want to turn them off by calling them informal names or by their first name.

It is very important to take note that in many cultures calling older people by their first name is a sign of disrespect.

If your beau doesn’t have a clue, one simple solution is to ask the parents how would they like to be addressed; it may be dad, mom, bob, Susan, Sir, Ma’am or simply Mr. or Mrs. Blanks.

5. Dress the part

Do you remember your first job interview? Well, this situation is similar to that. Make sure that you dress appropriately and look your best when you meet with the parents. Remember that this is a special day, so look good.

However, it’s also important that you keep it simple. Avoid wearing revealing outfits like miniskirts or tops with plunging neck lines. Instead, bear in mind the words elegant and classy when choosing an outfit. Accessorize it with simple yet exquisite jewelry.

Don’t forget the hair and makeup. Wear a simple do and light make up.

4. Be Polite

This is an essential rule. Being polite shows that you have manners and you were brought up well. Instead of saying “yeah,” say “yes”. Remember to say please, thank you, and welcome.

Although it all sounds like kindergarten, being polite shows a lot of character and will give them a good impression of you.

3. Do not forget your beau

This is the part where you show them that you really love their son. Take note that parents always love when their children are complimented.

The trick here is to do it with subtlety to avoid sounding like a big suck up. Let the mom know what a gentleman her son is or how kind he is. In a way you are telling her how well she raised her son.

2. Talk

Conversation is one of the best ways to win over your future in laws. Inject your opinions or thoughts. Of course, it is also important to do it in a manner that is polite.

Try to converse and exchange pleasantries with the parents. But remember that mothers are usually more talkative and receptive than fathers. So make sure that you level the conversation to both parents.

1. Be genuine

This is perhaps the most important rule. Whether you are bringing gifts or you are chatting with the parents,

show them that you are really interested and happy to meet them.

How to do this? Simple. Respond to their questions and smile at them. Be conscious of your body language. Nod or make eye contact when you are talking to them.

So are you still nervous about your fiancée’s parents? Don’t be. If you love your fiancée and genuinely care about him, this same affection and care will extend to his parents and his family.