The excitement of your wedding day has passed, and the honeymoon is over. If you didn't move in together before your wedding day, then the time has come. But how do you combine two households, especially if both of you have been used to living alone for the last few years? Here are some ways you can start the process without it being too stressful.

Decide What Stays and What Goes

You'll likely have duplicates when combining your households. You don't need two toasters, irons, or washer and dryer sets. Before the move-in, decide which of each item you would like to keep.

When in doubt, default to the item with the most life left. If your partner purchased their washer and dryer set new two years ago, and yours were hand-me-downs from your parents, that makes your decision pretty clear. If both items are comparable in longevity, then consider the place you are moving into. For example, if you are moving into your partner's house, your washer and dryer set should go, as theirs is already there and installed.

If items have sentimental value, take that into account as well. Perhaps it's an old tea kettle that belonged to your grandmother, or maybe your partner has an old, tattered quilt given to them as a baby. Be willing to make compromises for each other's sentimental items.

Shop for New Things Together

Shopping for new things will help the house feel like a home to both of you. Figure out your styles beforehand and what ways you can combine them harmoniously. If you don't know your decorating style, consider taking an online quiz that will give you an idea. You can find different items to decorate your home, from wall hangings to items for a shelf. Have fun with this process, as it's one of the first things you can do together to make the house feel like a home for both of you. 

Introduce Pets Slowly

If you both have a pet, then make sure you introduce the animals to each other slowly. Give them their space and take it a day at a time. Both dogs and cats can be very territorial, so it may take a while for them to get used to each other. If they have yet to adjust to each other within a few weeks, consider hiring an animal behaviorist who can help you with the process.

Combining Households

You both will have your set habits and routines, which sometimes may not mesh well together. Beforehand, talk about the particular routines that are important to you. Doing this ahead of time will help you find solutions before they cause issues.

In addition, you will need to update your budget and decide how to combine your finances after the wedding. Many budgeting apps can be helpful for this, or you can use a spreadsheet to keep track. This will help keep your finances on track and help you see what you can afford with your combined income.

Becoming a Blended Family

If children are involved, then the process of combining a household can be more challenging. If you can help it, give each child their own room, or have them share with a sibling they are used to living with and with who they have already shared a space. Respect their space and be patient as they adjust to their new normal. Try to make it a positive experience by spending lots of time together and finding activities to help the new family bond.

Combining your households after a wedding can be a fun yet challenging time. Ensure you communicate with your partner and give everyone time to adjust. This will help ensure it's as smooth sailing as possible and an overall positive experience.