District Magazine December 2014 | Page 47

Our Guide to Christmas By, Ally of Preppy Little with the In-Laws Lesbian Christmas with the In-Laws. It’s something almost everyone is going to have to do at some point. Whether you’re having your first Christmas with your new husband or wife’s family, or your second or third with your boyfriend or girlfriend’s parents and siblings, it’s most likely going to be awkward. Here are a few tips on how to make it slightly-less awkward. Bring something // Whether it’s a present for the whole house, flowers, or a dish, don’t show up empty handed! The family will love you for it! Dress appropriately // Is it a formal dinner? A casual lunch? A silly party? Ask your partner what the theme is for the night. No matter what, try to dress modestly! A sweater and a scarf is a great option for something more casual. Small talk // Small talk is pretty hard to do but it goes a long way. Chat about college, or school, how you like their home, etc. Ask questions // If small talk isn’t really your thing, ask questions. People naturally love to talk about themselves. Ask what they do for a living, how they like it, where they went to college, how your partner was as a child, etc. It gets the pressure off of you. Be considerate // Say yes ma’am, no ma’am. Yes sir, no sir. Take your shoes off in the house. Always say please and thank you. Basically just use your manners. They will get your very far, and it’s always good to be polite. 47