"Should I get a holiday gift for my son's boyfriend this year?"

How serious should my son and his boyfriend be before we include the newcomer in our holiday gift giving?

Do the same as you would do with straight kids and their boyfriends or girlfriends: When it seems as though the couple is serious and becoming part of your family, be proactive and extend an invitation for two. If you have no precedent, why don’t you just ask your son if he’d like you to invite both of them? But the entire responsibility doesn’t rest with you. Your son could make your job easier by sending you an e-mail that says, “Hey Mom, I’m really hoping that James can join us in our family celebration this year.” Bingo! Asking to bring home your significant other is a sign that the relationship is getting serious.

Then you’re on to your next challenge: whether to gift the new boyfriend, too. The answer is yes—nothing too pricey, but a small gift that shows you gave it, and him, some consideration.