Your first Christmas as a married couple! It’s exciting, it’s cozy, and it’s full of potential for creating the kind of traditions you’ll want to carry with you for years to come. So, how do you make it extra special? Let’s dive in!
1. Create Your Own Traditions
While family traditions are like gold, this Christmas is your time to shine! It’s perfectly acceptable to set aside what you’ve done in previous years with your families and start crafting your own magical traditions and unforgettable memories! Whether it’s decorating the tree together (yes, you’ll argue over which ornament goes where, but that’s part of the fun!), baking cookies that may or may not turn out Pinterest-worthy, or watching your favorite holiday movies (I’m looking at you, Home Alone), this is the perfect time to start something new. These charming traditions will transform into the annual highlights you look forward to with excitement, so feel free to express your creativity and personalize them to make them uniquely Yours!
2. Celebrate with Both Families (or Not!)
Ah, the age-old holiday question: how do you split time between families without causing World War III? Here’s the trick: communicate early! Decide whether you’ll spend your first Christmas Day with both families or share your love throughout the holiday season. Alternatively, this could be the ideal opportunity to start hosting Christmas gatherings at your place. A nice little housewarming-slash-holiday party, anyone? Just remember, no matter where you end up, your time together is what matters most. Whether it’s splitting the day or having your own celebration before or after, finding that balance will help you avoid the holiday drama. Or you know, most of it!
3. Personalize Your Christmas Décor
Now, onto the fun part—decorating! This is your chance to tell your love story through your décor. How about an ornament from your wedding day? Or a few special photos from your first year as newlyweds? You could even craft some DIY decorations that are uniquely yours. Want to get fancy? Personalized stockings, custom tree toppers, and a wreath made from your favorite flowers paired with pine, ivy, holly and eucalyptus —yes, it’s a thing, and it’s adorable. Christmas is all about creating memories, so make sure your décor reflects the life you’re building together.
4. Plan a Cozy Night In
Now, don’t let the holiday hustle wear you out—trust me, you need a break! Plan a cozy night in with hot chocolate (or mulled wine if you’re feeling fancy), soft blankets, and maybe even matching Christmas pyjamas. Seriously, nothing says “newlyweds in love” quite like snuggling up with your favorite holiday playlist in the background. These quiet moments are what Christmas is all about. So light those candles, settle in, and take some time to appreciate the simple joys of your first Christmas together. Bonus points if there’s a Christmas movie marathon involved!
5. Give Thoughtful, Shared Gifts
This is where things get really fun. Instead of focusing solely on individual gifts, why not get something you can enjoy together? For your first Christmas gifts, think of a weekend getaway, a new experience (hello, couples cooking class!), or something that adds to your home. Maybe you’ve been eyeing that fancy coffee maker that will make your mornings a little more magical, or perhaps a new artwork representing your shared adventures. Gifts that create memories are always a win, and hey, they make you both happy!
+1: Get Fresh Ideas from Your Wedding Planner
And here’s your bonus tip: If you really want to step up your first Christmas game, reach out to your wedding planner for some extra inspiration. They’ve already worked magic for your wedding—why not let them sprinkle a little holiday sparkle, too? From personalized décor ideas that tie in with your wedding theme to creative ways to celebrate, your planner can help bring some extra magic to your first holiday season. Who knew they could go from “I do” to “ho ho ho” so seamlessly?
Here are some tips from Nena Papadopoulou to ensure this Christmas truly becomes the most wonderful time of the year:
- Go Christmas shopping together and choose your dreamy Christmas tree.
- Organize a pre-Christmas dinner at home exclusively for your bridal group.
- Choose one or two beloved Christmas traditions from both families and blend them with the new ones you are about to create.
- ‘Fill your home with Christmas carols that beautifully pair with Jazz music and candlelight.
- Utilize the wedding gifts you received, such as this lovely vase from your aunt, to create a festive floral arrangement for your living room.
- Make your home ‘smell like Christmas’ with the scents of cinnamon, orange, gingerbread or fresh pine.
- Invite your parents to your new home and give them a glimpse of your new married life. This gesture will make them feel valued! Keep in mind that they care deeply about you, and you will always hold a special place in their heart!
Wrapping It All Up… Literally!
Remember, your first Christmas together is all about you two. It’s about the love, the laughter, and the memories you’ll cherish forever. So embrace the new normality, enjoy every moment, and don’t worry if things aren’t perfect. Your traditions, your way—it’s what will make this Christmas the first of many unforgettable holidays together.
Merry First Christmas, lovebirds!
Feeling overwhelmed planning your first Christmas as newlyweds? Not sure where to start? Let’s make it easy! Together, we’ll design a cozy and joyful Christmas celebration for your new home, filled with warmth and the start of your own beautiful traditions. Grab a cup of coffee, and let’s create the perfect first Christmas together!
Warmest regards,
Nena Papadopoulou
Owner, Style Concept Event Solutions
