Even when two people love each other and want to spend the rest of their lives together, they still may bicker about what kind of accent pillows they like or whether or not farmhouse chic is the right style for their living room. Blending two separate worlds into one home can be difficult, especially when it comes to getting rid of meaningful belongings. While a unique family heirloom desk might be something you must keep, an extra, faded vase may not.
Successfully melding two worlds begins with a conversation. Discussing with your partner (far before the move) about your various likes and dislikes will help each of you understand the other and avoid potential problems down the road. You don't want to spend the first few days in your new home or apartment arguing about the color of the walls or the dining room table. To ensure the process goes smoothly, here are a few expert tips to consider:
Set aside what you both love
This process will go far more easily if you begin with what you both love. Is it that ornate wooden bed frame, or patterned rug? Set it aside and move on to the next item. Even if you both don't love an item, if you are passionate about keeping something, let your partner know sooner rather than later. Each of you should be allowed to keep a few treasured pieces of furniture or household accessories, even if the other person isn't wild about them. This way, you both will feel comfortable in your own home.
If you have two: Pick the best
Depending on the size of your house, if you have two large sectionals, you most likely only need one. Unless you can find a way to incorporate both, it might be time to retire one to someone who could make better use of it. Use this rule of thumb when deciding which one to choose: Pick the best. The best might not always be the newest or the nicest, but it will be the best suited item for your home. With smaller pieces, like duplicate wine racks or multiple accent lamps, don't be afraid to declutter and only keep a select few.
Lean into the contrast
You are different people: That is okay. Instead of only going with one design scheme over another, lean into the contrast of your opposing styles. If you like a modern, crisp look and your partner prefers a homier design, learn to compromise and incorporate aspects of each style into each room.
Put differences aside and start fresh
One of the best ways to ensure your new residence feels like home to both of you is to start fresh. Use this time to look for a new couch you both love and will enjoy snuggling up on once winter comes around, or a decorative bookcase you can store both you and your partner's books, magazines and knick-knacks. Remember to handle differences gently and to enjoy this time by buying new furniture and furnishings that will make your new home feel welcoming for you both.
Make a trip to Arwood's Furniture & Mattress, Missouri's LARGEST Furniture Store, today! We are a proud, family-owned business that wants to see you find some of today's best affordable furniture to stylishly furnish your new home for two. Look no further than Arwood's, as we are the perfect place to buy furniture for anyone who loves the value of a good deal. Contact us today to learn more about our current sales and offerings!
