SparkyGirl
New member
Just a bit of background. Husband and I have been in an open poly relationship for nearly 5 years.
I've never had this discussion with most of my family about our lifestyle (I confide in my sister and a few select friends), but it's increasingly becoming more and more clear that I will have to have this discussion soon-ish.
I've entered a relationship that is strong enough and connected enough that it makes sense for this person to be introduced to my family. I've always said "When someone has the staying power, that's when we will start introducing the idea to the family." My Husband, Boyfriend and I are kitchen table poly and very comfortable with each other, and my boyfriend has a pretty strong connection with my daughter as well. The time is nigh. (Due to barriers in his other relationship, this is not reflected on his side of the relationship - this is just starting to change. Totally different topic for a different thread).
We are increasingly more committed, and so when I think of "family events," I feel like my boyfriend should start being there.
How do I begin to have this conversation with people?
My mom will be absolutely, 1000% totally cool, and my step dad will accept it but think it's "weird." I think my dad will "get it," but he's mentally ill and we will run into issues with privacy (as in, he'll just tell whoever will listen).
I am mostly concerned about extended family on my side, Husband's family, and because we are in a small redneck town and I own a business, I worry about how my relationship will be perceived by my potential clients.
How did you "come out" gently? What were the reactions you received? Mostly supportive? What are some things I should be cautious of? Any tips you have for me would be super.
I've never had this discussion with most of my family about our lifestyle (I confide in my sister and a few select friends), but it's increasingly becoming more and more clear that I will have to have this discussion soon-ish.
I've entered a relationship that is strong enough and connected enough that it makes sense for this person to be introduced to my family. I've always said "When someone has the staying power, that's when we will start introducing the idea to the family." My Husband, Boyfriend and I are kitchen table poly and very comfortable with each other, and my boyfriend has a pretty strong connection with my daughter as well. The time is nigh. (Due to barriers in his other relationship, this is not reflected on his side of the relationship - this is just starting to change. Totally different topic for a different thread).
We are increasingly more committed, and so when I think of "family events," I feel like my boyfriend should start being there.
How do I begin to have this conversation with people?
My mom will be absolutely, 1000% totally cool, and my step dad will accept it but think it's "weird." I think my dad will "get it," but he's mentally ill and we will run into issues with privacy (as in, he'll just tell whoever will listen).
I am mostly concerned about extended family on my side, Husband's family, and because we are in a small redneck town and I own a business, I worry about how my relationship will be perceived by my potential clients.
How did you "come out" gently? What were the reactions you received? Mostly supportive? What are some things I should be cautious of? Any tips you have for me would be super.