‘Tis the season to be jolly! And if you are newly engaged or married, this holiday season has, even more, to offer you. From family get-togethers to setting up new traditions, it’s likely to be a season filled with “firsts.” So, we’ve put together some ideas to help you make your first Christmas together as a couple truly magical.

Get your home filled with memories.

It’s the holidays that make us nostalgic and sentimental. Whether you got engaged or got married recently, commemorate the big year you’ve had with keepsake photos, frames, and ornaments telling your love story! If it is a souvenir from your exotic honeymoon or a miniature wine glass to symbolize your vineyard engagement, make it a tradition and do it every year.

Create your own traditions.

It’s okay to treasure holiday traditions from your childhood, but now is the time to create your own family. Take a few steps forward each year that you can share with your children later on. While decorating the tree, make nachos or try out that baked French toast recipe you’ve been eyeing for Christmas brunch.

Let’s frost some cookies.

If your partner isn’t an expert in the kitchen, chances are they’ll enjoy baking (and decorating) holiday shortbread cookies. Are you ready to level up? Try your hand at making a gingerbread house. However, if you make them from scratch, you might need the patience to finish the process.

You can go caroling.

Whether you’re singing old holiday carols on the doorstep of your neighbors, or even just in your living room, there’s something truly joyous about singing them. Why not make it part of your yearly holiday traditions? You can add a touch of romance to your life with this tradition.

Make time just for the two of you.

When December rolls around, it can be difficult to prioritize your relationship with all the holiday parties and family gatherings. Allow yourself some time to reconnect without distractions, reflect on the past year, and dream about the year ahead. In addition, keep a journal or notebook where you can record your thoughts on a relationship and return to it each year.

Typically, people plan extravagant vacations, but you don’t need to go all out when creating your own memories; what matters is the time you spend together. Make it a relaxing night by putting your favorite movie on and enjoying your Christmas dinner.

Divide your time up.

Before the season starts, sit down and plan your strategy. First holidays after a marriage can be challenging and confusing given that you have to abide by two families! Instead of trying to please everyone, figure out what works for you both based on your calendars and budgets. You decide whether to swap holidays or take one alone and alternate the other. If you aren’t sure where to begin, ask your parents how they split their time as newlyweds. It may give you a fresh perspective, and vice versa, it may remind them of the challenges.

Photobooth your way to a goofy Christmas.

For a humorous photo to frame every year, throw on ugly Christmas sweaters or some crazy glasses to add a little humor to your traditional holiday card. You’ll amuse family and friends with your lighthearted side, but the best part is that it will keep you two laughing year after year.

Don’t miss out.

Partying, traveling, and gift-giving can make the holiday season feel a bit overwhelming. Take some time to thank your partner for being by your side. You should find out what your partner desires and what they crave, and give them as much love as you can.

When you’re newly married and enjoying your first Christmas in a new house, the holiday season is a reason to celebrate. The creation of memories does not have to be complicated, and it can be as simple as spending time with the people you love. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and a Merry Christmas!