My Meet The Parents Scrapbook

Before packing any of my own things for this trip, I've got to wow my boyfriend's mom with something special. It's not just about the surprise, but a gift that jibes with her personality and something she will use. This decorative bowl is perfect for the nights she wants to entertain and is a reflection of my style as well.SHOP NOW: Michael Aram Gooseberry Gold Bowls, $199

Now it's about that first impression dress. Stylish yet safe, I love this polkadot number for a dinner out with the family or even Sunday church service.SHOP NOW: Anthropologie Mullany Dress, $258

I don't want to be that girl wearing sky-high heels to the family BBQ because I was trying to be over-the-top cute. So, these gladiators are spot-on for a dress-up or dress-down afternoon. Comfortable and cute always scores points.SHOP NOW: Aldo Gladiator, $60

A rule of thumb for packing: three pairs of shoes only. One should definitely be a flat peep-toe shoe like this one which works with dresses and jeans. Plus they pack easily, which is a bonus, and prevents that big luggage problem.SHOP NOW: Michael Kors Sloane Flat, $130

Just in case we take the Jitney up to the Hamptons (for a party or two), this carry-all will be the perfect beach bag and picnic tote for some sun and sand. Towels, sunscreen and my summer reading (32 Candles by Ernessa T. Carter) can all fit comfortably along with the digital cam.SHOP NOW: Shutters Beach Bag by Joie, $175

Hopping on a plane and changing climates can wreak havoc on the skin. And a pimple would surely ruin my important weekend, so I'm getting proactive with an anti-oxidant facial oil, high in vitamin E, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, that conditions and protects the skin from environmental damage.SHOP NOW: Cowshed Raspberry Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Oil, $53

To show a bit of my personality and sassiness, I can rock this animal print belt with fitted jeans and a fitted button down for a sexy, smart look—perfect for just hanging out at the family home and a tour around the hometown.SHOP NOW: Banana Republic Haircalf Belt, $80

With a crew of young nieces and nephews, I can't be all prissy with fussy clothes, but I'm not abandoning my style for a game of tag. These Grecian-inspired shorts are perfect for going from a game of dominoes to a round of Red Light, Green Light. Tag you're it!SHOP NOW: Alexander Wang Draped Shorts, $370

A must-pack is a free-flowing dress that can work day-to-night. Plus, I dont have to iron this so it's not high-maintenance, because neither am I. And I have a feeling the BF will love the jersey feel of the frock. Guess who's feeling frisky?SHOP NOW: Paul & Joe Sister Dress, $225

I used my Glo Scrapbook to create a meet-the-parents strategy— what will you use yours for?START YOUR SCRAPBOOK