The first meeting between the parents of both parties is not considered a marriage proposal. The meeting between parents of both parties is more about examining each other's families. Both men and women must arrange a place for their parents to meet and leave a good impression on each other. And proposing marriage is a relatively formal matter, and if the process of proposing marriage begins, it means that both families of the newlyweds have reached their intention to marry.
Suitable location for the first meeting of both parents
1. At home
If you pursue a warm and comfortable atmosphere, you can choose to meet at home. Generally speaking, the groom's family should take the initiative to visit the bride's home, which shows the groom's family's respect for the bride. Of course, if the woman wants to visit the man's house, it is also possible.
2. Restaurant
If it's not particularly convenient at home, you can choose to meet at a restaurant. It is generally recommended to choose a restaurant with private rooms, rather than sitting in the lobby, as it may appear too casual. Choosing a restaurant should prioritize quietness, comfort, and exquisite cuisine.
Gifts suitable for both parents to bring when meeting
1. Health products and fruits
This is the least likely gift to go wrong without knowing the preferences of the other person's parents, while also expressing your feelings.
2. Supermarket card
If you are afraid that the gift you choose may not meet the expectations of the other party's parents, you can choose an affordable supermarket card, which is both convenient and affordable, and not as direct as money.
3. Pastry Gift Box/Nut Gift Box
Recommended brands: Daoxiangcun, Xufuji, Zhiweiguan, Three Squirrels
Gift boxes such as pastries and nuts are actually the least likely to go wrong, and can be eaten by the whole family. Choose some pastry gift boxes from big brands that are familiar to your family members. The taste and texture are generally not bad, and you can eat with peace of mind.
4. Tobacco and alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol are the eight essential gifts for traditional betrothal, and they are also suitable for the first meeting. It is more of a folk custom, even if the other party's parents do not smoke or drink alcohol, they still have to express their gratitude. If it weren't for these two, it would be considered a taboo in some places, seen as disrespect towards parents.
5. Tea leaves
Whenever guests come to our home, we always brew a pot of good tea to entertain them, which shows how important tea is. It can be given as a gift for three reasons. Firstly, it has a specific tea culture and does not have any ominous connotations.