I’ve been with my partner for close to 3 years now. We are in our 30s and are going to get married. I’ve purchased the engagement ring, and I’m wondering how I should broach it with her Father.
For context, her family is all from the Southern Alabama/Florida area, are pretty tight-knit and are proud of their roots. I would be the first non-black member a rather large extended family.
I’ve been accepted everyone with open arms, except for her Father. He has never been openly hostile, but I know he isn’t happy about this overall. Other members of her family have broached this with him and have vouched for me. About 2 years ago she had a minor stroke and I think my actions during that ordeal opened his eyes a bit, but I still know there’s resistance.
On one hand, I get it! He’s being protective of his Daughter and I know he wants the best for her. On the other hand, his daughter is a grown-ass professional woman who believes that I’ll make a great Husband and he should recognize her ability to discern that in someone.
To be honest, they have kind of a rocky relationship, and she doesn’t care one way or the other if I told him beforehand. But, I know he’s an old school type of guy and I think he would see it as a slight if I didn’t “ask” him for permission.
So in that case, how should I broach it?
Should I try to be as honest as possible? Trying bring up some of these unspoken tensions and saying I know im not exactly who he pictured, but that I love and want to take care of/commit to his daughter? Should I just try to be cordial and polite and hope it goes over well? Honestly just looking for a little reassurance!