As you and your partner grow closer together the time will inevitably come when you consider taking each other home to meet your family. Regardless if you are out to your family or not, the decision can be quite challenging.Here are a few tips on how to survive this next step in your relationship.

Make sure your partner is ready to meet your family
Introducing your significant other to family members is a big step. You should talk to him or her well in advance and be absolutely sure both of you are comfortable with the idea and the potential outcome. Pay careful attention to the warning signs: Hesitation from you or your partner, resistance or uneasiness. It may be an uncomfortable situation for you both, so be sure the decision is mutual.

Give your family advanced warning (make sure they are ready)
If you are out to your family, have a candid conversation and introduce the idea of your partner coming home with you. Once again, pay careful attention to their reaction and warning signs. Explain to them that your partner is a significant and important part of your life and that it would be great if you both shared the holidays with them. Keep in mind that even if they accept your homosexuality, they may not be ready to meet your partner.

Try not to use your partner to make a statement or prove a point
If you're not out to your family and plan on coming out during your trip home, you may want to consider introducing your significant other at another time. It may be a huge adjustment and very emotional time for both you and your family. This is a private time for you and your family. Given they understand your sexual preference, you may want to bring up the idea that you have a partner. However, it still may not be an appropriate time to have him or her there. If your sexuality is not taken well, then try not to bring your partner home as a statement of your freedom and choice. This may be liberating for you, but keep in mind that your partner may feel uncomfortable. Also, threatening the family that you will bring him or her home regardless of their feeling or bringing up the fact that other family members are allowed to bring their significant others home may not be the best approach. Try to talk to your family about how important it is to you that they meet your partner and how significant it will be for them to see your homosexuality as a normal part of life. Threats and arguments will only get those involved on the defensive. Try the peaceful and open approach.



It may take time for you, your partner and family to get comfortable
It may take time for your partner and your family to get comfortable with one another. Be yourself and act naturally. Understand that this may be new to your family and your partner. Try to break down the walls by sharing family stories and bringing your partner into conversations. Share stories about your relationship as well. Humor is usually a good ice-breaker. Also, as a quick test of comfort, encourage your partner to play with the kids. It's just a matter of time before someone tells your 2-year-old nephew to go see "Uncle or Aunt(Your Partner)".