Whether you’re in the early stages of the relationship, newly engaged or have been married for years, deciding how to split up your family time around the holidays can be challenging. Do you squeeze in all families in one day? One day with your partner’s family, the following with yours? How do you keep everyone happy without overdoing it? I’m here to tell you that there is no “one size fits all” answer to this question. It’s all about compromise, logic and up to the couple. Below are a few expert tips on how to successfully split up family time around the holidays.
Spend the Holidays Apart
I know this isn’t ideal. And shame on me for listing this as an option, but here it is. If you’re still getting to know your partner and are unsure of what the future holds for you two, it’s best to leave families out of it. Don’t break Nana’s heart by introducing her to a girl who may not be around after New Year’s. Alternatively, if you’re seriously involved with your partner and your family lives out of state, this may be the logical choice.
All Day Holiday Festivities
Two turkeys, endless slices of pumpkin pie, many glasses of eggnog, lots of tamales. If you decide to visit all families in one day, that is what your day will entail. If your relatives live close, this is a preferred option, and a good one at that.
Swap Holidays Each Year
The most common way to split up family time is to alternate each holiday. This year spend Thanksgiving with your family, Hanukkah/Christmas with theirs. The following year, switch it up. You’ll both be much happier, and in turn will have more time to create fond memories with the people who matter most.
Weekend Celebrations
Thanksgiving is on a Thursday every year. However families know no calendar dates. Spend the actual holiday day with one family, your partner’s the following, and throw in a Friendsgiving the next. Who doesn’t love gluttony three days in a row?
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