I think mother-in-laws get a bad rap. Not all of them are wicked, sinister, controlling, and mean… I’m sure they can also be sweet, kind, and friendly… not sure how to win over your own MIL? Here are 7 ways to impress your mother-in-law…
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1. Ask for a Recipe
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Photo Credit: theladymargaret
Chances are, your husband fondly recalls at least one dish or dessert his mother used to make, whether it’s her lasagna or her apple pie or her potato salad. Don’t bother to try and make it the way YOU make it… instead, impress and flatter your mother-in-law by asking her for her recipe, or better yet, ask her to show you how to make it! It’s a win-win - you get to learn to make a dish your husband loves, and your MIL feels important and appreciated, and gets to remember her son as a little guy, digging in to his favorite meal.
Honestly, keeping a good relationship with your mother-in-law can make family gatherings more enjoyable and brings peace to the household. Plus, it shows your partner that you care about their family.
Start by being genuinely interested in getting to know her. Ask about her favorite hobbies, or offer to help with things she enjoys. Simple gestures go a long way!
I'd suggest starting small, maybe a warm smile or a compliment here and there. Eventually, perhaps invite them to a casual dinner where you feel comfortable.
That's okay! Focus on shared interests, even if they're small, like a mutual love for coffee, or listen to her stories with genuine curiosity. Everyone loves being heard.
Oh, definitely don’t try too hard or be insincere. Authenticity matters! Also, avoid controversial topics that could lead to tension.
2. Keep a Tidy House
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Photo Credit: joey_joey_joey
Even if your mother-in-law is a complete slob when it comes to her own housekeeping, she’ll never forgive you if your house is anything less than tidy. Hopefully, she won’t be the type to run a white-gloved finger along your mantle to look for dust… but when you know she’s coming b, make sure your house is neat and clean, no matter how much you hate housekeeping.
Honestly, keeping a good relationship with your mother-in-law can make family gatherings more enjoyable and brings peace to the household. Plus, it shows your partner that you care about their family.
Start by being genuinely interested in getting to know her. Ask about her favorite hobbies, or offer to help with things she enjoys. Simple gestures go a long way!
I'd suggest starting small, maybe a warm smile or a compliment here and there. Eventually, perhaps invite them to a casual dinner where you feel comfortable.
That's okay! Focus on shared interests, even if they're small, like a mutual love for coffee, or listen to her stories with genuine curiosity. Everyone loves being heard.
Oh, definitely don’t try too hard or be insincere. Authenticity matters! Also, avoid controversial topics that could lead to tension.
3. Admire Her
Did your mother-in-law just get a new haircut, kitty cat, dress, or rug? Notice these things, and be sure to comment on them. Make a sincere comment, too, because she’ll know if you’re not being genuine.
***
Going beyond superficial compliments, take an interest in her interests. If she’s taken up gardening, ask about her favorite plants or offer to help her with weeding. When she mentions a book she’s reading, engage in a discussion about it, or if she’s into cooking, compliment her on a dish she’s prepared and ask for the recipe. This level of attention shows that you value what’s important to her, and it will resonate on a deeper level, helping to create a stronger, more personal connection.
Honestly, keeping a good relationship with your mother-in-law can make family gatherings more enjoyable and brings peace to the household. Plus, it shows your partner that you care about their family.
Start by being genuinely interested in getting to know her. Ask about her favorite hobbies, or offer to help with things she enjoys. Simple gestures go a long way!
I'd suggest starting small, maybe a warm smile or a compliment here and there. Eventually, perhaps invite them to a casual dinner where you feel comfortable.
That's okay! Focus on shared interests, even if they're small, like a mutual love for coffee, or listen to her stories with genuine curiosity. Everyone loves being heard.
Oh, definitely don’t try too hard or be insincere. Authenticity matters! Also, avoid controversial topics that could lead to tension.
4. Ask to See Photos
Come on, admit it. You’re curious to see what your husband looked like when he was a baby, and in kindergarten, grammar school, and junior high. Ask your mother-in-law to see photos, and she’ll be delighted to spend an hour going through his baby book and school photos with you.
***
Seeing those old photos won’t just give you a glimpse into his early style choices (or lack thereof), but it’s a fantastic avenue to hear stories and share laughter. And trust us, every mother adores reminiscing about their child's milestones and quirky moments. Plus, it's not just about making a great impression; it’s also about connecting on a personal level. By showing genuine interest in your husband’s past, you’re signaling to your mother-in-law that you cherish where he comes from. And who knows? You might just find that his adorable toddler grin is the same one that melts your heart today.
Honestly, keeping a good relationship with your mother-in-law can make family gatherings more enjoyable and brings peace to the household. Plus, it shows your partner that you care about their family.
Start by being genuinely interested in getting to know her. Ask about her favorite hobbies, or offer to help with things she enjoys. Simple gestures go a long way!
I'd suggest starting small, maybe a warm smile or a compliment here and there. Eventually, perhaps invite them to a casual dinner where you feel comfortable.
That's okay! Focus on shared interests, even if they're small, like a mutual love for coffee, or listen to her stories with genuine curiosity. Everyone loves being heard.
Oh, definitely don’t try too hard or be insincere. Authenticity matters! Also, avoid controversial topics that could lead to tension.
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5. Invite Her over
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Photo Credit: Jasmine Sien
Most likely, your mother-in-law WANTS to like you, if for no other reason than to brag to her bridge club about what a sweet girl you are. Give her every reason to like you by extending an olive branch and asking her over. If you only invite her for family events, where the whole family is invited, she’ll feel pushed out. Invite her for dinner, lunch, or shopping when no-one else is with you… spend some time with her!
***
Creating a warm and personal connection is crucial. Show genuine interest in her life, perhaps by preparing her favorite meal or engaging in activities she enjoys. Remember, the little details matter; setting a beautiful table or a heartfelt compliment about something she's proud of can go a long way. By making her feel special and valued, you're not just winning her over, but you're also building a relationship that has the potential to enrich your family. Always listen with empathy and be open to her advice, even if you don't always take it; it's the thought and respect that count.
Honestly, keeping a good relationship with your mother-in-law can make family gatherings more enjoyable and brings peace to the household. Plus, it shows your partner that you care about their family.
Start by being genuinely interested in getting to know her. Ask about her favorite hobbies, or offer to help with things she enjoys. Simple gestures go a long way!
I'd suggest starting small, maybe a warm smile or a compliment here and there. Eventually, perhaps invite them to a casual dinner where you feel comfortable.
That's okay! Focus on shared interests, even if they're small, like a mutual love for coffee, or listen to her stories with genuine curiosity. Everyone loves being heard.
Oh, definitely don’t try too hard or be insincere. Authenticity matters! Also, avoid controversial topics that could lead to tension.
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6. Ask Her Advice
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Photo Credit: *midtownsky*
Every mother-in-law, in fact, every woman, likes to be asked her opinion. On everything, from child-rearing to cooking to stain removal to which shoes look best with your LBD. Ask your mother-in-law for advice, and take her suggestions and opinions seriously. This will show her you respect her… which she’ll love.
***
Seeking your mother-in-law's guidance suggests that you value her wisdom and experience, which can be quite flattering. Take the opportunity to engage her in deep conversations, particularly in areas where she excels. Listen attentively, and even if you don't follow through with every piece of advice, acknowledge her input. This thoughtful exchange nurtures mutual respect and can pave the way for a more harmonious relationship. Remember that it’s not just about making idle conversation; it’s about forging a genuine connection that's built on trust and appreciation.
Honestly, keeping a good relationship with your mother-in-law can make family gatherings more enjoyable and brings peace to the household. Plus, it shows your partner that you care about their family.
Start by being genuinely interested in getting to know her. Ask about her favorite hobbies, or offer to help with things she enjoys. Simple gestures go a long way!
I'd suggest starting small, maybe a warm smile or a compliment here and there. Eventually, perhaps invite them to a casual dinner where you feel comfortable.
That's okay! Focus on shared interests, even if they're small, like a mutual love for coffee, or listen to her stories with genuine curiosity. Everyone loves being heard.
Oh, definitely don’t try too hard or be insincere. Authenticity matters! Also, avoid controversial topics that could lead to tension.
7. Treat Her Son Well
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Photo Credit: califree
The most important thing you can do to impress your mother-in-law is to treat her son well. Every mother wants her son to have a lovely, faithful, devoted wife… so if you’re all of those things, she’ll be sure to adore you!
Most mother-in-laws are just afraid of losing their sweet little son, and want the best for them… and you’re so wonderful, if you follow these tips, she’s sure to love you! What’s your relationship with your mother-in-law like? How did you impress her? Please let me know!
Top Photo Credit: Scriblerus
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Comments
Samantha: I know I am too young (16) but I am having a great relationship with my futue mother-in-law. I think this could work out in the future. My boyfriend and I are doing great and she has seen us together and she was very good with me and my bf being together. Great tips! I'll need them anyways in case.
jaspreet: Jass: two years has passed to my marriage, yet i m not feel comfort with my in laws, my mother in law hide every thing from me like food, milk, fruits everything which i can use from first day , In starting i was shared them , and hope she will also change, but response is negative. even i m feeling as a guest in my own home. i have talked to my husband about this, but he said that father in law did not give her expenses, but according to me it is wrong, i m working woman , and my in laws never spend a peny for me ,
sonu: me n bf been in relation since 5 yrs every at our house knew about us though we have soo much to get married nothing is bothering me except my mother in law omg i donnoo y she likes all the gals in the world except me my bf wants me to his mother often but i feel very nervous as if thats the first time im going to meet her... she doesnt like me my dress or anything that belongs to me what should i do ??
sasi: i love my cousin, bt my aunty nt accept my lve,hw i can impres my aunty. plz help me
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