Knoji reviews products and up-and-coming brands we think you'll love. In certain cases, we may receive a commission from brands mentioned in our guides. Learn more.

You have met the love of your life and things are going great. No major arguments. No major issues or secrets (or at least you are working on them, I mean even Prince or Princess Charming has baggage.) Money is ok and you are both thinking long term. There is just one more thing that you both have to face meeting the prospective in-laws. It can be nerve-wracking (braving the unknown usually is), the main thing is to find the right balance between being yourself and impressive your partners parents. So here are some tips to help you.

Firstly, is this the right time? If you are not yet exclusive and too scared to call your partner girlfriend/boyfriend, then perhaps it is too soon.

Be prepared. Find out if the parents are relaxed or strict, traditional or more progressive. In addition, make sure you know which subjects to avoid talking about plus ensure you know what event you are attending e.g. are you attending a cosy family dinner or a 20-strong BBQ? This will enable you (mentally) at least to get into the swing of things.

Having done the above step, make sure you dress appropriately. Smart casual almost always works. I am not talking about power Hugo boss suits but make sure it is not too tight, gaudy or ripped (even if it is the fashion). In this case less is more. Over or under dressing makes you feel uncomfortable and it will be clear to everyone. Worse still, your discomfort may come across as insecurity or even pride (remember Mr Darcy in Pride and Prejudice?)

Taking a simple gift like wine and/or chocolates is an almost guaranteed way of scoring some brownie points. Same goes with helping out (dont offer, just do) and ignoring your mobile phone (or better still switching it off).

Watch how your partner is with their parents and follow their lead.

Do not get drunk (or drunker than the parents), avoid being overly affectionate in front of them. Furthermore, if you are sharing a room at their house, be more cautious and subtle than usual. If you have been put in separate rooms, respect that. It may be hard but it will be worth it.

Be careful when conversing. Be modest but not insincere. Do not debate (unless someone else starts it but then still be cautious when joining in) and avoid controversy.

Finally say thanks by phone is good, a written note is better.

I hope that this helps you. There may be some things that I have missed so I would be happy to hear you thoughts. I would also like to hear your stories about meeting your partners parents whether they are embarrassing, touching or laugh-out funny. Take care.