Nairobi News

Visiting your romantic partner’s extended family over this Christmas and New Year holiday may be the move needed to keep your relationship going. It would be a good thing to make this trip while others actively continue devising ways of avoiding going to meet the in-laws.

See, at this time, family and friends gather in one location and with the merry-making, what better way to get to know new potential family than over good food, great drinks and creative ice breakers?

Here’s why it is an absolutely great idea to make the 8-hour trip to Western Kenya or the 30-minute trip to Limuru to your partner’s home:

The first advantage is that where you and your partner would have initially spent money on an event where formal introductions would be done, going to meet a family that already intended on gathering for Christmas will keep your pockets lined.

Secondly, as the entire clan- or majority of them- are around, this way, you get to build relationships with your partner’s family beyond the nuclear group. You will also make friends with his relatives’ friends, and this might get you invites to future family events to participate in their traditions.

Third, you will get to interact with and understand the traditions of your partner’s family. You will get first-hand information on what to expect if you marry into the family and what is expected of you. This way, you will also get to understand why your partner does some things the way they do, allowing you to get a deeper understanding of them beyond their city lifestyles.

The fourth greatest part about going to their home over this festive season is that you will get to create new memories with your partner- you will get to show your commitment to them if you are willing to wade into these murky waters full of in-laws and that you are willing to share their experiences alongside their loved ones.

Fifth, if your partner is not on good terms with their family but is expected home over the holiday because it is tradition, accompanying them shows your concern and support for them. By doing this, you will be providing them with emotional support and reassurance that they have someone batting for them in their corner, no matter who they are. Who knows, this might take your relationship to the next level.

Last but not least, if you know you are a good person and have great skills in various things, this would be the best time to lowkey show them off to your partner’s family.

There is no harm in putting your best foot forward to show them what they would be ‘gaining’ if you happen to join the family and that their kin is well matched with you.

Do you know how to cook? Commit to cooking one major dish and give it your best shot.

Do you know how to sing?

Tell stories?

Shine through, friend.

Because people judge others based on first impressions. Make sure to jump on this train.