All In A Days Work

Regardless of your age, moving in as a couple represents a major milestone in any relationship. It’s only natural to have butterflies and go over a bunch of “what-if” scenarios as you figure out whether or not you and your partner will be compatible under the same roof.

After all, there’s always the stereotype of couples who fight all the time because they’re totally incompatible lifestyle-wise. While there’s no one-size-fits-all to making your move-in work, there are things you can talk about and consider beforehand to decrease your likelihood of driving each other crazy.

If you’re already looking at apartments for rent or are simply mulling over the idea of moving in together, keep the following tips in mind as you plan your future space.

Figure Out Finances ASAP

Perhaps one of the fastest ways couples build resentment toward each other is by not having their finances sorted out from the word “go.” For example, you’re going to need to outline crystal clear expectations in terms of…

• Whether or not you can afford to pay your fair share of the rent month after month (think: are either of you unemployed or between jobs?)
• How you’re going to split the cost of weekly expenses around the house including groceries, pet food and other household odds and ends
• Who’s going to foot the bill to take care of any necessary upgrades for the home such as applies or furniture

Set Boundaries at the Beginning

You also need to be clear in terms of what’s acceptable and what’s not in terms of noise, cleanliness and general behavior while you’re living together. While not everyone represents an “odd couple” situation where one partner is messy and the other wants everything spotless, it is important to compromise from time to time. If you’ve spent enough time together in your relationship, you probably already have a good idea of what to expect and what problems might arise.

Share Your Chores

Don’t leave the burden of chores on one person for any reason. Dumping such responsibility on your partner is a surefire way to form a grudge and start a slew of arguments.

Strive to do chores together if possible. Likewise, take care of nagging chores such as dishes and laundry together day-by-day to avoid major messes and keep each other from getting overwhelmed.

Make “Alone Time” a Priority

You may want to spend every waking moment together when you first move in; however, you may quickly find that you long for alone time. Try to carve out some space in your apartment where you can enjoy some peace and quiet, perhaps to read, unwind or focus on a personal hobby. Don’t look at spending time apart as a strain on your relationship, but rather a way to give each other more space.

Expect to Have Some Squabbles

No couple is perfect, plain and simple. You should expect to hit some bumps in the road during your first few weeks together: an adjustment period is totally normal. In the long-run, communication is key to cohabitation regardless of how long you’ve known each other.

Moving in together is much more complicated than it seems on the surface. By setting clear expectations and communicating accordingly, you can actually look forward to your big move versus stressing out about it.

When you’re preparing to bring a new baby home, there’s so much to think about, from clothes and supplies you’ll need, to the logistics that will come with juggling everyday life and the demands of your new little one.

Another important component of preparing for a baby is designing a nursery, particularly if you’re first-time parents. You want a nursery that meets all your own needs since you’ll be spending so much time there with your baby, but also one that looks great, and hopefully that your baby can grow into as they get older and their needs change.

The following are some tips to follow that will make your nursery functional and stylish, regardless of your aesthetic.

Choose the Right Window Coverings

Window coverings are really important in the overall design of a nursery for a few reasons. First, you want to choose window coverings that are going to block out light, which is critical during those many hours your baby will spend sleeping.

You also need safe coverings, which is of particular importance as your baby gets older.

You might want to go with wooden blinds for the most light blocking, as long as you choose a cordless option.

You can then layer them with a valance or window panels to keep the look soft.

Build the Room Around the Crib

Once you’ve got windows covered, think about choosing the crib first. This will let you build the rest of the room’s design around that central piece of furniture.

Remember, when it comes to choosing a crib don’t go with a used or vintage option because of safety issues, and try to look for one that will convert to a toddler bed or a twin bed, which will be useful as your child grows.

Textiles

When people are designing a nursery, they’ll often pick the paint color or color scheme first, but then find that it’s more difficult to design the rest of the room around that.

Instead, choose the window coverings, then the crib, and then all of the textiles before considering colors. That way, you can pick a paint color that works with your bedding, your rugs and any other items you have in the room. It’s much easier to choose a single coordinating paint color, as opposed to having to base everything in the room around a color.

Create a Space For You

Parents often don’t realize that the person who should feel happiest in their baby’s nursery, at least for a while, is them. Choose colors that you find soothing, and create a space for you with a comfortable chair, and storage for items you’ll need while you’re in there.

This can be a nursing station, or just any area that you’ll find is relaxing for you.

Finally, if possible, try to install a ceiling fan in your nursery. Ceiling fans can help make you more comfortable when you’re with your baby, but they can also be useful in helping prevent SIDS, so they’re a great décor option to consider.