Introducing a new partner, who is potentially "the one", to your mom or other family members is intimidating; you know it could mean navigating a tricky emotional minefield. These days, you may be attempting to blend different cultures, ethnicities (and, sometimes, languages) in bringing him or her into the fold. If things don't go well, you have a potential meltdown and maybe even a war room situation lurking ahead. How do you go about introducing your new partner so that it all works out to a happy beginning? And maybe an all together happily-ever-after?

Here are six tips that foster a smooth, warm coming together:

1. Prepare Your Mom: Tell your mom and the rest of the family all the good news about your partner before they meet: how great you two are together, how wonderful, generous, or successful he or she is. Describe how this person has helped you in your life.

2. Prepare Your Partner: Talk about the fun, joy, and great childhood memories you have of your mom and your family. Encourage your partner to do the same with you. This will put the two of you into an inclusive attitude, rather than a mine-vs-yours stance. Then, you can appreciate both families.

3. Set the Table for Success: Ask your partner to bring your mom's favorite yellow tulips or another special gift that you know your mom will appreciate. Right before the first meeting takes place, come right out and tell your mom how important it is to you that she help your partner feel welcomed by the family.

4. Keep the Love Fest Going: At the first meeting, keep the conversation going back and forth in a positive flow. Mention that your partner just completed a marathon or got that new job. Show off your mom's garden. Keep the focus of attention on positive things on each side, and your mom and partner will follow suit.

5. Avoid Complaining: This is not a time to complain to your partner or to your mom! Save that for later, after a good solid bonding has taken place between them. Actually, stop the complaining altogether! If problems arise on either side, handle them with the party concerned. If you complain to mom about your new partner or vice versa, you risk alienating one or the other or winding up in the middle of two warring factions.

6. Reduce Negativity: If your mom is already down on your partner, your job is to help reduce her negative attitude. Tell your mom that you're committed to having both closeness with her and your partner's love in your life. If your partner is from a different culture, you should also talk about your partner's heritage in a positive way, emphasizing the things they may have in common. If your mom responds with judgments and resistance, say, "Mom, I know you love me and want the best for me. It would mean a lot if you extended some of that love and warmth to the person I am bringing." Being firm yet loving with your mother will ultimately win her over.

These six tips will help you head off trouble before it begins. You can create a marvelous start -- having the love of a new partner in your life, plus a supportive connection with your mom and the rest of your family. Chances are it will work out better than you expect.