Communicate beforehand

The key to any successful relationship is communication, and this is especially important when it comes to navigating family gatherings. Before the big day, sit down with your partner and discuss any potential concerns or triggers that may arise during the gathering, from family likes and dislikes to values and politics. This will help both you and your partner be prepared and on the same page when it comes to handling any sticky situations.

Set boundaries with your partner

It's important to establish boundaries with your partner's family, especially if this is your first time spending Thanksgiving with them. Let your partner know what makes you uncomfortable and discuss ways to address those situations together. It's also important for your partner to communicate any boundaries they have with their family, so you can both support each other.

Practice makes perfect

When it comes to big family gatherings like Thanksgiving, everyone has a family member who’s into politics or maybe slightly too aggressive when it comes to their favorite team. Or perhaps they’re simply nosey about who their family member chooses to spend their time with. So understandably, it’s important to take the time to prepare for this mentally. As it is their family, your partner needs to let you know what conversations you need to be ready for, which ones you need to avoid entirely, and ideally, the best course of response to those that are inevitable.

Teamwork makes the dream work

Remember, you and your partner are a team through thick and thin. Stick together throughout the gathering and don't be afraid to lean on each other for support. If one of you starts feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable, have a code word or signal to let the other know it's time for a break or to leave the situation altogether.

Show appreciation for your partner and their family

Be sure to show your gratitude towards your partner and their family for inviting you into their home. Whether it's bringing a dish to contribute to the meal, offering to help with clean up, or simply thanking them for hosting, these small gestures can go a long way in building positive relationships with your partner's family.

If you really want to show off, try asking what you can do to help unprompted (unless asked not to beforehand). With that said, some people can get touchy about their kitchen/sink/space, especially during the holidays, so be sure not to make any presumptions and do a good job at helping out.

Don't take things personally

It's common for families to have their own inside jokes and dynamics that may make you feel left out or uncomfortable. Let them have this with your partner and try not to take these things personally, as it's most likely unintentional. Focus on the positive aspects of spending time with your partner's family and try to find common ground with them when you’re given the opportunity.

Plan an exit strategy

Let's face it, even the most well-intentioned family gatherings can be overwhelming at times. It's important to have a plan in place for when you or your partner need a break. Whether it's going for a walk, taking a nap, or leaving the event altogether, make sure you both are on the same page and have each other's back.

Thanksgiving with your partner's family can be a challenging experience, but with open communication, boundaries, and teamwork, you both can make it through unscathed. Remember to focus on the love and gratitude that brought you, your partner, and their family together in the first place, and enjoy this special time of year with those closest to you. Happy Thanksgiving!