If you’re in a serious relationship, then time with your significant other’s families is a guarantee. If you are feeling nervous about the conversation, then you may want to have some conversation starters that will ease your worry.

The most important thing is to focus on bringing the best version of yourself to the event. Here are seven conversation starters for meeting your significant other’s family. 

Origin Story 

This conversation starter might feel broad and deep topic; however, people like to talk about themselves. Everyone has a story, and until you ask questions, your partner’s family members are essentially strangers.

Ask them where they are from and where they grew up. If they are not natives of the city or state, ask what brought them to where they are now. People tend to like to share about who they are and where they come from. 

Careers

Whether it’s remote or in-person, everyone has a job, which makes the topic a perfect conversation starter. There’s so many unique industries, and within each industry, there is a diversity of roles. Get curious and ask questions about their career. You might find a shared experience or interest. 

Passions

This conversation starter gives the other party the opportunity to talk about their passion project. It could be travel, literature, art or music. Dive deep into their interests and share if you have any shared interests. This will be a great connection point and an opportunity to generate genuine conversation.

Traditions

There’s no better time to dive into traditions and memories than at a family dinner. Ask questions about traditions, family memories and favorite family recipes. You can break the ice and find common ground about traditions that you may share with your own family.

Books, Podcasts and TV Shows

One easy conversation starter for the dinner table is pop culture. Ask your partner’s family members what books, podcasts or TV shows, they’re loving right now. If you’ve not heard of it, that’s a perfect opportunity to lean in and learn more about it. You also can share what you’re reading, listening to or watching to keep the conversation going. 

Upcoming Plans

One great conversation starter is to ask about plans and goals for the future. Maybe someone has travel plans or a bucket list activity to cross off their list. Take an interest in what your partner’s family members are looking forward to in the near or distant future.

Your Significant Other’s Childhood

Any easy conversation starter is to talk about your partner’s childhood. You can ask what they were like growing up or their family members favorite memories of them as a kid. If you run out of questions to ask, then you can ask to see photos. While your partner might get a little embarrassed, this conversation can help tear down walls and bring laughter, as you walk down memory lane.