How do I handle dinner with my boyfriend and family?

Question

My boyfriend is coming over for dinner tonight, and my parents are going to be there. Now this wouldn't be such a big deal, if my parents actually liked people. They are very anti-social and can't stand to have people around. They have never spent time with any of my boyfriends. Michael is a great guy and deserves the best. So how do I make sure things run smoothly? Mind you I'm cooking, so I can't always be around them.

Answer 1

You're cooking...OK!!! This is a family event...no pope no queens or princes. I'm sure your folks would rather be near or in the kitchen visiting/helping over a pre-dinner drink/munchie than be formal in the living room.
This should be comfortable (as near to home as you can get) you are after all their daughter and you should know what would make them comfortable. "Mi casa, su casa" works best for all your family and very close friends.
TV off (oldies on)... head back... eyes closed... deep breath... 1 2 3... open eyes... smile and open door... H A V E . P H U N !!!

Answer 2

tell your parents to put on their best manners as we have company coming, as you can not be there all the time maybe rent a good movie, while you do the cooking they can watch the movie, or find common ground for them to talk about

Answer 3

I guess you'll learn a whole lot about your BF's character, now, won't you? Relax, and let the evening happen as it will. If your BF has class, he'll see their discomfort, and he'll work to put them at ease. If that doesn't work, he'll know that it wasn't his fault, and he'll move beyond it. You need to move beyond it, too, because you can't change your parents.

Answer 4

you have just put him in an impossible situation, talk to your parents and make sure they know how important this is to you

Answer 5

try not to blow your nose at the table. maybe slip a little more l alcohol into your mom's cocktail.