Don’t play favourites
Most of us prefer our own parents to our partner’s. But don’t be tempted to freeze them out in favour of Mummy and Daddy. Christmases to come are going to be a whole lot easier if you nurture a friendship between your folks. They might even learn a thing or two.

Present a united front
Chances are in heated moments you’ll side with your parents and he’ll side with his. But in front of the parents present a united front. Show support for each other and even the evilest of mother-in-laws might just take a leaf out of darling son’s book.

Plan ahead
Christmas offers enough stresses without the added pressure of unexpected problems. So plan your Christmas as well as you can and keep it simple. If you’re relaxed your guests will be. Likewise if you’re at theirs have a set time to leave agreed (and we don’t mean ten minutes after you arrive).

Accept their oddities
Everyone has their quirks and your in-laws have had theirs longer than you’ve had yours. So if they open their presents the minute they’re awake but you like to leave it ‘til later or if it’s not Christmas dinner without ketchup it won’t kill you to zip those lips.

Remember what it’s about
Remember that Christmas is about being with family, taking time out and enjoying yourself. No one can do that if they’re on tenterhooks, so chill out and don’t expect everything to be perfect. And if you can’t relax, then just remember that they’ll be gone by New Year.