Beyond learning about the place where they grew up, it’s a good idea to learn about the family of your partner. Take the time to sit down with your partner and their family to really get to know them as people and not just some relatives that you have to impress. Talk to them honestly about things that you enjoy as well as your dreams and plans. Then, ask them about their lives too.
Here are some tips to get to know the family:
• Ask a lot of questions.
• Listen to the answers.
• Create a family album for your partner and talk to his or her relatives to get help.
• Help them construct their family tree.
• Compile stories from the relatives to make a special book that can be given to all of the family members.
• Celebrate major holidays with the relatives, if you can.
• Ask their mother about embarrassing stories.
• Let them tell their stories multiple times, even if you have heard them five times before.
• Offer to hold your own family gatherings with everyone
• Plan a family reunion every few years, if you can.
• Learn about their religions or traditions.
When you take the time to get to know your partner’s family, you’re taking the time to get to know them as a person too. These are people that have known your partner for much longer than you have. And while it might be difficult at first, it’s a task that you should attempt. Your partner will appreciate it.
