So you met this guy or gal at your friend's Halloween party and things have been going great. They're funny, they love your dog... they even think your quirks are endearing. You're enjoying every moment of dating honeymoon bliss.
There's just one problem, the holidays are approaching at the speed of light and you are suddenly thrown into a frenzy of, "Do I invite them over? Should I get them a gift? What if it freaks them out and they don't want to see me again as long as they live because my mother interrogates them? AAAARGH!"
The terror of it can be way too much to handle during this season of stress. Fortunately, we have a solution that will carry you through.
The easiest way to coast by the gift exchange without any awkwardness is to make a pact that rather than buy each other presents you are going to go out and 'do something' special.
Maybe it's dinner at Tribute or one of the area's other incredible restaurants. Or why not treat yourselves to an overnight stay at the Book Cadillac? Or go see a show. Wicked's in town. You both will love it!
Not only does making plans avoid the uncomfortable moment when she hands you the DVD boxset you've been drooling over for months in exchange for the coffee mug you bought her at Starbucks, it'll also be a lot of fun.
Please note, if you aren't at the stage where staying over is a normal part of your dating life together then we'd suggest sticking with the dinner or show option. This isn't the high school prom.
When it comes to whether or not to subject him or her to Aunt Sally's crazy cough and putting food in her purse it's best to avoid it as much as possible. Chances are they have holiday plans themselves and meeting the extended family can drive anyone to drink.
If you find they don't have plans or still feel you have to catch them under the mistletoe at least once on Christmas Day make plans to get together later in the day. Snuggle up at the movies and watch the latest blockbuster or curl up in front of the TV and watch and old favorite like the Christmas Story (the 24 hour marathon will still be going strong on TBS.)
Most importantly don't stress too much about the holidays. You guys have a good thing going and really the holidays are just a few days in a lifetime of days. If things workout you'll be spending many together so it's perfectly ok to let this first one slide by.
