In the concluding episode, the Girlfri3nds finally take their chosen boys home to meet the family. But the drama had only just begun, as the girls’ relatives subjected the couples to a barrage of embarrassing questions.

If you’re dating someone new, how can you handle any conversational bomb that’s thrown your way? Kate Taylor, resident dating expert at match.com has all the answers for you.
 
Emotional grilling
“How much do you like Laura? Do you think it’ll last?” When Ken met Laura’s family, he was subjected to a level of torture previously only seen in war films. Laura’s Mum didn’t hold back from asking him all about his last relationship, and cousin Caitlin showed no fear when asking Ken to, “show me with your hands how much you like Laura – this much? Or this much?”

Bearing in mind Ken had only had a couple of dates with Laura at this point, it felt pretty intense! If your new partner’s family starts to question the sincerity of your feelings, remember you are not obliged to make wild promises. Your duty is to treat your partner well, not turn into a soppy greetings card on demand. Play it cool by saying, “I’m really enjoying getting to know them – they’re wonderful,” and leave it at that.
 
Long-term Security
Amy had tried to prepare Charlie for her father’s blunt personality but, “Don’t you think you’re a bit young for Amy?” still seemed a rather cruel question to ask a guest who didn’t yet know where the loo was. It reminded us when gamely tried to stand up to interrogation by Ken’s father.

If you meet a prospective mother- or father-in-law who seems to pride themselves on asking The Big Questions, don’t cower away, or try to over-sell yourself. The most attractive response you can give is an air of quiet confidence. Charlie did well here, describing how he was working at his career and showing a sense of dedication to hard work.
 
Leading questions
Sarah’s mum asked Danny: “How do you think you’ll cope with the distance?” Like Laura’s Mum’s line of questioning about exes, leading questions are a device to gauge your sincerity. Anything you say that demonstrates warmth and affection will be well-received, so don’t stress about finding the right phrase. Be sure you maintain eye-contact and keep your body language open and comfortable – don’t hide behind crossed-arms, fidget, or gaze longingly at the door.
 
Laura’s mum (again!) put her own daughter on the spot by asking, “Do you think you’ll fall in love with Ken?” while Amy’s Mum blatantly hinted for kissing-gossip by muttering, “You took your time out there,” when Amy returned from saying goodnight to Charlie. And Astra, Sarah’s little sister, simply asked Danny outright if he’d “had a little kiss yet?”

Some relatives will always feel a new relationship gives them a Licence to Grill, but keep your counsel, especially if you’re the type who can be easily swayed by others’ views and opinions. A wink and a mysterious, “Maybe…” will do fine, especially in front of your partner. The more discretion you display, the safer they’ll feel to open up to you. Nobody likes to feel every kiss will be discussed with a family panel of judges.
 
Do you think the girls made the right choices, or are you still pining for Gurpreet, George and Mitch? Don’t forget, you can still contact the boys the girls didn’t choose at Match.com/girlfri3nds!