First Christmas Away From Home: Advice for Newlyweds

Over the next few weeks, newlyweds everywhere will be forced to deal with the holidays - and the emotional issues and encounters that come with them. The bride and groom may find their heads spinning over where to spend Thanksgiving, Christmas or Hanukah. The problems get worse when one or more parents live out-of-town or have significantly different holiday traditions. Here are some quick tips for managing the season's activities together.

1. Money. Financial matters are often a minefield at the holidays. Because you love her so much, you want to get her gifts that will make her gasp with delight. Unfortunately, your tight budget might make her react with anxiety when she opens her presents. The same monetary concerns could limit the big holiday party you both wanted to throw for all your friends and family. The answer is to have a complete and frank discussion of finances. The goal is to compromise and reach an agreement on holiday spending. As with all holiday issues, the key is communication.

2. In-laws. Feelings can rise to the surface quickly if one set of parents feels slighted by your holiday plans. Everyone wants you to spend the day or evening with them. That's why many couples divide the holidays between both parents' homes, or even split the big day on a morning and night basis. The problem is that the couple feels rushed and harried, often forcing down two turkey dinners in one day. It's important to remember that the most important focus of the holidays should be on your new marriage. It's OK to insist on private time with your spouse, despite what your in-laws or parents may say.

3. Traditions. The holidays bring several family traditions -- like when to open gifts and where to put the decorations -- that may be different than your spouse's. Again, it's communication and compromise that will solve most issues. For example, Christmas gifts can be split up and opened on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In the end, though, newlyweds should be creating their own traditions, a combination of how you were raised and what you prefer as your marriage develops.

4. The baby At every holiday gathering, someone will ask the bride and groom when they plan on starting a family. The pressure is particularly strong from grandparents, who have a vested interest in seeing their grandchildren sooner, rather than later. Newlyweds often become upset with what they see as interference with their new independence as a couple, but it's wise to remember that everyone means well. Develop a standard, polite response to these inquiries, like: "We haven't even unpacked the good china yet!"

5. The stuffing. It's amazing how many different stuffing recipes there are and it's a good bet that each newlywed has a strong attachment to the style mother made. The solution: make them both at first. Sooner or later, a new recipe will be found to replace the old ones. That's how traditions are formed.

The holidays are an exciting time of the year filled with seeing friends and family, opening presents, and decorating your house. So much to do, so little time! If you're searching for life insurance, let NetQuote help. We can connect you with qualified life insurance agents in you area, which leaves you more time to spend with your family. What could be better?

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