The holidays can be a tricky time to navigate when you’re in a new relationship. Sure, there’s plenty of opportunity for seasonal date ideas and romantic moments. But the holidays can also mess with the pacing of a relationship.

What kind of gift do you get someone who you just started dating? Should you attend their family’s holiday party, or should you invite them to yours? If you do go, do you get gifts for their parents?

If you do find yourself invited to your new significant other’s holiday party, it means that they’re comfortable enough to have you around their family! Let’s dissect it a little bit more.

Being Invited to the Party Can Be a Big Step

If your significant other invites you to their family’s holiday party, this can signify the next big step in your relationship. Not only are you meeting the family, but you’re delving right into an intimate family setting.

Often, the holidays are a time that families gather and express gratitude for one another. The fact that your new partner wants to include you in this means that they feel comfortable enough with you to allow you into their familial setting. More so, they feel comfortable enough to let you around their family.

This act can signify that your relationship is moving to the next level.

It Could Be More Casual

While family holiday parties are often intimate affairs, they can be casual, too. You may show up to find lots of people there-not just limited to your significant other’s immediate family.

This type of party can undoubtedly feel like less pressure, especially if you’re nervous about meeting the family. It’s essential to ask your partner what type of party it is. This way, you can better prepare for what to anticipate.

For example, is it a more formal family dinner? Then you’ll probably be having much closer conversations with family members. Is it a casual party? Then you’ll probably meet some new people, but overall there will be low pressure to socialize with your partner’s family members closely.

Should I Invite My Partner to My Family’s Holiday Party?

If your significant other invites you to their party, then are you obligated to ask them to yours? It’s a matter of your discretion, honestly.

Sure, it’s not a bad idea to invite them, since you were invited to theirs. But if it feels too soon, or you aren’t ready to bring home a significant other to the family, then don’t feel pressured to do so. Everyone moves at their own pace, and just because your partner was comfortable inviting you to theirs, it doesn’t mean you have to feel the same way.

If it’s no big deal to you, and you’re excited to introduce your new partner to the family, then invite them. If it feels a little too soon or the prospect makes you nervous, then explain this to your partner.

Communication Is Key

As with any aspect of a relationship, communication is vital. If you’re invited to your significant other’s party and aren’t sure what to expect, ask them about it. You can ask them ahead of time who you will meet, what they’re family is like, etc.

And, ultimately, you aren’t under any obligation to go. But, if you do choose to go, it can signify you and your partner taking the next step in your relationship. Just remember to keep an open mind, don’t be too nervous about meeting the family, and have fun! It’s a holiday party, after all.

Odds are, you’ll feel much better about meeting your partner’s family and knowing that you two are moving forward in your relationship.

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For more help navigating the holidays as a new couple, please reach out for a free 20 minute consultation.