Danielle Tate

Newlywed Couples That Play Together Stay Together

Have you heard the saying, “Play together stay together?” There’s definitely something to it. Get up, go to work, come home, eat dinner, clean up, sit down, watch television, go to bed…repeat. Does this sound like the routine you have fallen into as a couple? If so, you are not alone. A large percentage of newlywed couples find that the pattern of work and living together in the same house can lead to a rather mundane existence when compared to the excitement of wedding planning and the honeymoon.

While a routine can be a good thing, it can also rob a relationship of its natural luster. While it might not be possible to go out every night, there are always ways to spice things up around the house.

Forgotten Fun – Many board games across this nation have been stashes away in closets, attics, or on book shelves to collect dust while occupants of the home turn to digital devices for entertainment. However, for the couple trying to find some fun to be had around the house, few things can beat a challenging board game. Whether it’s a lighthearted round of checkers or a competitively driven game of Scrabble, the activities can exercise the mind while improving your relationship. Looking to add some sizzle to game night? Simply play a body conscious game like twister after a glass or two of wine!

Digital Date Night – Okay, so you said goodbye to board games long ago and aren’t ready to head back to the store for more. That doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a game with your spouse. Pick up the Wii remote or other video game controller and challenge him or her to play. Work together to destroy a common enemy or win an Olympic game and then celebrate your victory!

Get Creative – Have you always wanted to learn how to paint? Did you once have a knack for pottery? Or, have you been dying to try a new cooking technique? Rather than trying it by yourself, invite your spouse to join you. You may have to bribe him, but joint discovery of new talents is a great way to stay excited about your relationship. Learning more about each other and doing something new together is a fantastic way to stay excited about your relationship.

Honey Do’s – Take a quick look around your home…see room for improvement? Maybe there is an outdated light fixture, a fraying carpet, or a kitchen in desperate need of new paint. However small the project may be, when done together it can create a source for bonding. You can have a lot of fun looking for the perfect shade of paint or carpet and then installing it. Aside from improving your home, you’re also improving your relationship.

What do you do to play together? Do you have a standing card night, play a sport together or spend time in the kitchen getting creative? We’d love to hear about your togetherness activities in a comment!

Five Marriage Topics To Discuss Now Instead of Later

Do you know what marriage topics to discuss? As you return from your honeymoon, there a few questions you need to discuss with your spouse. While you may be hesitant to rock boat of “newlywed bliss.” It is very important to establish a understanding of how you both feel about these key topics before they cause problems in your marriage.

When do you want kids and how many do you want to have?
It’s long been discussed and long been debated. The opinions you have today will very likely change significantly in the future, but if he wants them and you don’t, or you were hoping to have a houseful and he cannot see himself with more than a single child, then how can the future possibly go smoothly? Hash out a plan that works for both of you and try to compromise as much as you can while still retaining your happiness.

Where do you see yourself in ten years; twenty?
This is not an easy question to answer for anyone. People who have been at the same job for many years are not always clear on their future ambitions, but discussing it now can point out possible points of contention that might lead to trouble in the future. For instance, if one person simply values fun and minimal commitment, but the other intends to build a large savings account before retirement, issues can quickly arise. So, even if answers are vague, at least you will have a general understanding of where your potential spouse wants your relationship to go. Meeting with a financial adviser can also help mitigate your opinions and help you come up with

What is your idea of the ideal vacation?
It might seem a silly question to be placed on a hot marriage topic list, but it is definitely worth asking. For one thing, vacation time from work is often very limited, so varying opinions regarding the best way to spend the time can create rifts. Knowing what your spouse wants out of a vacation before you go on one (honeymoons don’t count) can help minimize silent suffering and resentment and help you plan a trip that will meet both of your needs!

What level of commitment do you feel toward your family?
Sure, there is something desirable about a man who can admit that he enjoys spending time with his family, but how will that play out in the future? If one partner feels the need to frequently visit parents, grandparents, or siblings, it can limit potential places to live, greatly impact decisions regarding the holiday season, and even create weekly commitments. How will you both react to this? Discussing both of your needs and family responsibilities can help you find a balance between both families and the one you just created with your vows.

How do you feel about religion and politics?
It is best not to discuss religion and politics in most settings, but when it comes time to a lifetime commitment to another individual, there is good reason to bring these subjects to the forefront. Though your ideas regarding each might be perfectly in sync, there is a reason that these are considered taboo topics.

People generally feel very strongly about both and mismatched believes will very likely lead to heated battles in the future. Knowing what is a “hot topic” for your partner can allow you to approach it carefully and with great tact…thus reducing your chances of an argument.

Remember, as you ask these questions, that it is better to know how you and your partner feel (not how you think the other person wants you to feel). Honesty now will result in a harmonious marriage later!

Which is the the biggest of the marriage topics to discuss in your opinion? Did we miss any? Let us know in a comment!

The Perfect Halloween Costume Formula

Halloween is right around the corner and that means there will be the usual slew of parties and gatherings, most requiring a costume. As a newlywed, you might find yourself struggling to find something appropriate not that you’re not on the prowl. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered from creative to classy…here are a few of our top Halloween costume suggestions.

Here’s our basic formula: Cute Dress + Creative Idea + Accessories = Perfect Newlywed Halloween Costume

Silver Spider – Who said spiders can’t be sexy?! Wow everyone with this lovely silver shift that feature a subtle web overlay. Amp you image with silver crackle nail polish and a spider wand (who doesn’t love a wand on Halloween?). If you’re really pulling out the stops, check out this jeweled spider fascinator!

Roman Soldierette – Show your strong side in this amazing caped mini dress with sequined shoulders and then add a gold helmet to complete your look.
Beautiful Rose – Check out this Rosette Dress! All you need to do is add pale green tights and some booties and you’re set! Want to up the creative factor? Put a butterfly clip in your hair to complete the ensemble.
Techno Kitty – Why settle for being a basic tiger when you can be one fierce feline with this vividly striped dress? Channel your inner Katie Perry to come up with the makeup and dare we suggest wig to complete this look. And of course you can’t forget a set of headband ears!

For more chic Halloween costumes check out the LA Purse Blog. Happy Halloween ladies!

Heads Up Atlanta Brides!

Heads up Atlanta brides! Are you recently engaged (or have a friend who is)? This Sunday is the best time to attend a bridal show. Bridal shows are the perfect way to vitalize your wedding planning process with amazing ideas. You’ll see potential venues, caterers, florists, invitation shops, bakeries, honeymoon locations, favors, entertainment and things you’d never even think of on your own!
Planning a wedding in or around Atlanta? Great news…The Great Bridal Expo is in town on Sunday! Here’s why we love this show:

It’s huge, so attendees get to meet the most bridal vendors, try the most samples & walk away with the most ideas
They have the BEST bridal fashion show in the business…complete with collections right off of the runways in New York
Prizes galore! Enter to win complete dining sets, gowns and honeymoons

We would love to give our newlywed blog readers free tickets to the Great Bridal Expo show this Sunday in Atlanta,GA! Simply go to GreatBridalExpo.com – enter MNMBEX in the space provided, and you will be able to print your FREE tickets for 2!
Are you and/or a friend planning to go to the show? We’d love to hear what your experience was! Did you book a vendor (or 5), see your wedding dress during the fashion show or learn about a new trend that is SO you? Leave a comment…

4 Fast Ways To Fallify Your Home

Looking for ways to fallify your home? One of the best things about a new season is refreshing the seasonal decorations around your house or apartment. As a newlywed, I feel like I can spend a bit more on décor as I’ll be using it year after year as we celebrate the seasons! Here are a few quick ways to embrace Fall…

Mums – Inexpensive and incredibly festive, mums come a huge variety of colors and sizes. Pick colors that blend with your household or choose ones that contrast for a pop of color on your porch, tables or walkway. Need a quick hostess gift? Wrap some ribbon around the middle of a potted mum…instant seasonal goodie!

Acorns – I’m serious. Talk a walk with your honey and collect a bag of acorns as you stroll. Then use them to fill glass containers to decorate tables and counters. You can also scatter them around a Fall table centerpiece for added flair.

Wreaths – What better way to welcome guest to your home than with a fabulous fall wreath. You can go with a traditional leaf style wreath or mix things up with one with berries or mini pumpkins! Feeling crafty? Try this 4-step DIY wreath!

Pumpkins – They’re not just orange anymore. Take a trip to your local farmers market to find amazing pumpkins in cream, burgundy and even light blue. Purchase enough to have a few couples over and engage in a jack-o-lantern carving party! Everyone will have a great time and leave with a decoration for their own home.

What seasonal decorations are your favorites? Do you have heirlooms to use or are you making your own this year as a couple? We’d love to hear from you in a comment.