Like meeting your man’s parents, meeting the friends is a milestone in your relationship. A good impression is key. But don’t stress too much. If he wants to introduce you to them in the first place, he’s obviously confident that you’ll all get along fine. He probably also wants to show you off. So right off the bat you have two great reasons to be confident. Here are some extra pointers to help you make a great first impression with his friends.
Go with the flow. Step one, be easy going and join in the fun, whatever it is. If you’re at a house party, cheer on the keg stands, join in the impromptu dance parties. When you go with the flow, you’re part of it. You’ll have a good time and it’ll help you relax.
Be optimistic. Go into it trusting that his pals will just love you for you, no matter what happens. If they’re as great as your boyfriend, they probably will. If you feel awkward at any point in the night, give them the benefit of the doubt. Don’t overthink it, just brush it off. Just don’t let feelings of self consciousness get in the way of you making a great connection with his crew.
Be playful. Remember, if his friends deliberately give you a hard time (ask questions to see if you’re good enough for him, or tease you a bunch), that’s a sure sign they like you. They wouldn’t do it if they didn’t. Go along with the fun and remember it’s all in gest.
Be yourself. Don’t stress out too much. Just like they tell you in kindergarten, the best way to make friends is to be yourself. Plus, getting caught in lies isn’t fun.
Whatever you do, don’t criticise your man. Even jokingly. This may not go over well, especially if they don’t know your humour yet.
Remember, it’s not the end of the world if you don’t jive with someone right off the bat. If worst comes to worst, you can disretely pull your man aside and explain to him that you’re dying on the inside. The age-old adage bros before hoes totally doesn’t apply here, because you’re not just a hoe, you’re his girlfriend, his confidant, his best friend. There’s nothing more important to him than you feeling comfortable.
