When you get married, you marry a whole family-- and have to add them to your holiday list. Here are some holiday gift suggestions for your mother and father-in-law.

Shopping for the perfect holiday gift for your mother-in-law and father-in-law? This can be a difficult task, especially if this is one of your first holiday seasons together, simply because you don't know them very well. This can also be a challenging task because relationships with the in-laws aren't always the smoothest. If things are tense or if you simply aren't very close, pleasing your in-laws with a thoughtful gift can go a long way at improving relations.

Here are suggestions for shopping for a great Christmas or Hanukkah gift for your mother and father-in-law.

Enlist Help from Your Spouse

In some couples, one of the spouses has the responsibility for doing most of the shopping-- usually the woman. If this is fine with both of you, it's no big deal, but that's not going to cut it when it comes to shopping for in-laws. Parents may be difficult to shop for, but they're almost certainly easier to shop for than in-laws because most people have at least of inkling of their parents' tastes.

Ask Family Members

Go ahead and ask your father-in-law what your mother-in-law might like. And ask your brother-in-law, sister-in-law, or anyone else in the know.

Gift Receipts

When purchasing a gift for someone you don't know well or for someone who's picky, it's always a good idea to include a gift receipt. They may want the opportunity to return the gift discretely and don't feel comfortable asking you to provide the receipt. Because of this, it's probably not a good idea to purchase things for your in-laws at estate sales, on eBay, or anywhere else where the gift can't be returned easily.

Shopping with In-Laws

This works especially well with mother and daughter-in-laws, and can be a great chance to bond. Take your mother-in-law out for a fun afternoon of lunch and holiday shopping. In the stores, pay close attention to the things she lingers over most. Or simply ask her point blank, "Would you like one of those?"

Grandparent Gifts

If you and your spouse have children, you instantly have something in common with your in-laws. Most grandparents will be thrilled with framed photos of the kids, handmade presents that were created with help from the grandchildren, and other such "grandma and grandpa" gifts.

Night on the Town

Unless your in-laws can't stand each other, a night out together is always welcome. Purchase a gift certificate to their favorite restaurant and tickets to a show. If you have the means, surprise them with a weekend vacation. Or if you'd like to get to know your in-laws better, purchase a couples' night out for you and your spouse and your in-laws.

Hobby Gifts

Do your in-laws collect something, or have a hobby? You'll probably know this after a few trips to their home. Hobby-related gifts are thoughtful and show that you're paying attention.

Gift Certificates and Other "Safe" Gifts

If you don't know someone well, or if they're picky, a gift card can be an excellent option. Or look for a similarly "safe" kind of present such as a gift basket. Just be sure to get feedback from your spouse and family members to make sure this kind of gift will be appreciated.

Charity Gifts

Some elderly couples really do have everything they need and want. If this is the case, consider donating to their favorite charity in their name. However, be sure to get feedback from your spouse and other family members first, as their pleas of "we don't need anything" may not be sincere.

Shopping for in-laws tends to get easier over time as you get to know them. Best of luck with your holidays and your shopping!