How to Get Along With Your Future Mother-In-Law

Indian weddings come with a lot of wedding functions, wedding rituals and wedding traditions. Amidst all the festivities and celebrations, weddings also help in forging everlasting bonds. One such bond is that with your would-be mother-in-law. We know you are emotional as you'll be leaving your family and becoming a part of a new one. We understand the importance of these new relationships and have therefore curated for you a list of things you should be mindful of as you move into a new phase of life. Wedding decor, or hiring a wedding photographer and a wedding videographer or finalising a wedding venue are all important. But, what is more, important is to understand the meaning of this new union and your wedding vows. 

1. Be yourself

This is important. You don’t want to come across as fake at all. It’s okay to be polite and hold yourself back a little because you’re not sure what’s appropriate but don’t get too caught up in this. Allow yourself to be who you really are with your future mother-in-law. She’ll appreciate your honesty and even embrace your quirks if you give her time and space. Putting up a mask will only cause damage in the long once she realizes what you actually are like.

2. Take it slow

It’ll take for you two to get comfortable around each other. That’s completely okay and normal. You don’t necessarily have to love each other from day one. Give it time; get to know her at parties, social gatherings and during visits. Show her that you really are listening to what she says and be patient even if things don’t go as well as you want them to, at first. You’ll be able to warm up each other in a bit and things will only get better from there.

3. Ask questions

Ask your partner to tell you about your future mother-in-law’s likes and dislikes. Remember those especially when you visit her. Get along surprises for her and your partner. Being considerate and thoughtful will earn you major brownie points and make her feel more comfortable around you. Show interest in the things she talks about, ask her questions and participate in conversations instead of being distracted or looking like you don’t care.

4. Be respectful

Unsure about what to call your new mother-in-law? Be direct but kind, and ask her what she’d like to be referred to as.  Check on her regularly and be polite, saying thank you when she prepares a lovely meal for you. Volunteer to help out at dinner parties and make sure you take some of her load off. Little things will go a long way in helping her trust you and establish a good rapport in time.

5. Ask for her advice

Let her know she matters by asking her to pitch in whenever you need help. She’s experienced and will be more than happy to share her thoughts with you. During the wedding, make sure you get her to take on things such as décor details, what to gift guests and more. She’ll feel like she’s a part of everything and won’t feel like she doesn’t know what’s going on.  

Now that you have gone through these pointers we are hopeful that these will come in as handy as you venture into this new phase of your life. Marriage is like a coin. it comes with its high points and low points as well. But, know this, with a supportive husband and understanding in-laws it will be the best change you would have undergone in your entire life. So, be positive and make the most of t his new journey and take it one step by the day. 

Write to us about some of the changes you faced post-marriage through comments.