The Etiquette Of Meeting His Parents

From Casual To Classy: What I’d Wear (And How I’d Act) When Meeting His Parents

Mike and I are going to be helping at a dating conference next week, so dating and “firsts”: first impressions, first texts, first dates, and yes, that first time meeting his parents – keep coming to heart and mind.

Lately, I’ve been getting quite a few outfit inquiries for different social scenarios, so this conference has inspired my new Instagram series: From Casual to Classy, where I’ll be sharing what I’d wear for different occasions.

This first one is “What I’d Wear to Meet His Parents.”

But before I dive into outfit ideas (because you know I love talking about lace, florals, and feminine touches!), I want to start with something even more important: etiquette. Because you can wear the most polished and classy outfit, yet if you don’t carry yourself with grace and virtue, it all misses the mark.

I’ve been married to Mike for ten years now, and I still remember the moment I met his parents. I remember exactly what I was wearing, the kind of cookies I made to bring over (these because it was near Christmas time), and the joy of meeting the two incredible people who shaped him into the man he is.

Let’s dive into some etiquette!

First Impressions Begin Before You Say a Word

Your presence speaks before your voice does. Smile warmly, make eye contact, and greet his parents with genuine kindness. This shows confidence and respect.

A gentle handshake (or, depending on the family’s culture, a polite hug) communicates openness and sincerity. Be sure you are reading their body language to determine what greeting they are comfortable with.

Ask, Listen, and Learn

It’s easy to get nervous and fill every silence with chatter, but remember: good conversation is as much about listening as it is about speaking.

Ask his parents questions about their interests, family traditions, or even favorite recipes. (You’ll learn so much about the person you love, too!) A genuine curiosity about others is one of the most elegant traits you can cultivate.

Don’t Be Duplicit

Be yourself! Do not try to be someone you aren’t for the sake of impressing. Lead with humility. Remember, the man you are dating chose you for YOU! One of my favorite quotes is by Saint Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) who said, “If you are humble, nothing will touch you, neither praise nor disgrace, because you know what you are.”

Dress With Class, and a Dash of Personality

Now for the fun part: what to wear!

When meeting his parents, your outfit should reflect who you are: respectful, thoughtful, and full of personality. I love soft, feminine touches and classic pieces that feel timeless. Here’s what I’d wear:

• Lovely Lace Earrings: A delicate way to frame your face and add a hint of romance.
• Timeless Cotton Dress: In a soft blue, white, or pink floral (my favorites!). I found this 100% cotton slate grey one that is stunning (and currently on sale for less than $30!) Cotton keeps it breathable and comfortable while maintaining that polished look.
• Boots That Show Your Personality: I absolutely love these floral ones. They are charming, confident, and show a playful side.
• A Unique Handbag: Something that feels you. I love a structured bag with character, a little statement piece without being loud.
• A Light Scarf: Perfect for layering and adding a graceful finishing touch.

Click on the image of each piece to shop!

End With Gratitude

Whether the evening goes perfectly or has a few awkward moments, always end with a note of gratitude. A simple, “Thank you so much for having me, it was lovely to spend time with you,” leaves a lasting impression of warmth and respect.

If you want to go the extra mile, and in some situations this is an essential step – especially if they treated you to lunch or dinner – a short thank-you text or handwritten note is a wonderful way to show appreciation.

A Final Thought

Meeting his parents can feel like a milestone, and it is! But when approached with grace, virtue, and sincerity, it becomes less about impressing and more about expressing who you truly are.

Fashion helps us present ourselves beautifully, but it’s our kindness, thoughtfulness, and faith-filled demeanor that truly make us unforgettable.

So whether you’re slipping into a soft cotton dress or tying a light scarf around your shoulders, remember: true elegance begins in the heart.