Marriage is the unity between two people … belongings and all! Getting married and moving are two events that top the list of life’s most stressful events. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 20- to 29-year-olds have the highest moving rate of any age group because of life-changing events, such as marriage, a new baby or a new job. But don’t worry; here are a few simple tips to enjoy the honeymoon a little longer:
Where you’re going to live as a couple is a big decision. Take the time to evaluate your financial situation and discuss all of your options with your significant other. Once you reach a decision and determine a moving date, don't procrastinate. Waiting until the last minute dramatically increases stress on everyone. Allow at least six weeks of planning to help make the transition as seamless as possible.
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Stuff, Stuff and More Stuff
Merging your belongings can be daunting. As soon as you decide to move, take inventory of everything in your home and have your significant other do the same. People often have more than they realize such as kitchenware, clothes, books, audio and video equipment, pictures, sports equipment and artwork – all the items that make your living space a home. Be sure to include wedding gifts such as china, crystal, electronics and other items that may be stored elsewhere.
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Evaluate Your New and Old Surroundings
Compare your new space with your old space(s). Talk to each other in advance about what you want your new space to look like. Try to visualize where you'll place specific pieces of furniture to determine what items to sell, give away or store.
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Perfect the Art of Compromise
In every great relationship, there is compromise. Make a list of the items you'd like to keep and compare it with the list your significant other makes. At a glance, you'll see where belongings overlap. Take turns on selecting things you would like to bring with you, keeping in mind the style and vision of your new space that you both agreed upon. This should help the decision-making process when he wants to bring his beer signs and raggedy chair or when she wants to bring her floral sofa or pink bedding. However, throughout the process, pay special attention to each other’s feelings. Consider hosting a garage sale, posting the items on eBay or Craig’s List or donating to a local charity.
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Take an Emotional Break If Needed
Give yourself a one-week break before going through your belongings again with a more critical eye. Once you get used to the idea of parting with certain items, it may be easier on the both of you to make the final decision.
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Remember Important Names and Numbers
Keep a list of all the phone numbers and contact names of representatives at the moving company, real estate office or apartment leasing company, as well as the utility companies in your current and future residences.
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Follow a Calendar Countdown to the Move
Create a step-by-step timetable for packing and moving. Check out Mayflower’s Web site for a detailed calendar to follow to make your move easier.
Consider hiring a professional mover. While it may have been fun to bribe friends with pizza to help, there’s a time for a professional mover to take over. A professional mover will come to your home and walk through the move with you beforehand. The mover will estimate the cost, discuss packing and unpacking options with you, work out a mutually convenient schedule and make sure all your moving questions are answered. Depending upon the level of valuation you choose, a professional moving company also assumes responsibility for any breakage, provided it handles the packing (an important consideration when moving valuable wedding gifts such as china and crystal). Mayflower's movers are trained in packing techniques and have specially designed materials and boxes for valuables.
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