7 Ways for Husbands and Wives to Face the Holidays as a Team This Christmas and New Year Season

Ah, the holidays! That magical season where mistletoe hangs, chestnuts roast, and you and your partner teeter on the edge of a festive meltdown. From untangling last year’s Christmas lights to managing the in-laws who “accidentally” forgot their hotel booking, it’s enough to test even the strongest of marriages. But fear not, dear couples! Here are seven ways to tackle the holidays like the power duo you are, while sprinkling in some humor, a dash of sarcasm, and a lot of teamwork.

1. Make a Holiday Game Plan (and Stick to It)

Think of the holidays as a championship game. You wouldn’t enter without a strategy, right? Sit down together and map out the logistics—from gift shopping to meal planning. Who’s in charge of picking up Aunt Martha’s “special” fruitcake? Who’s refereeing the annual Monopoly war with the kids? Divide and conquer.

Pro Tip: Create a shared digital calendar. That way, when one of you “forgets” the office potluck, the evidence is there in all its timestamped glory.

2. Perfect the Art of the Mutual Escape Plan

Holiday parties can be fun, but let’s not sugarcoat it: sometimes, you’ll want to bolt. Work out a subtle escape signal—a tug on the ear, a specific phrase like “Did you feed the cat?” (even if you don’t have one). This way, when the neighbor starts a 45-minute monologue about their keto gingerbread recipe, you’re outta there.

Pro Tip: Blame the babysitter. Even if your kids are old enough to babysit themselves, it’s a classic excuse that rarely fails.

3. Share the Wrapping Duties (and the Credit)

Nothing tests your patience like wrestling with glittery wrapping paper and a roll of tape that’s gone rogue. Split the gift-wrapping workload evenly, and for the love of Santa, give credit where it’s due. No “Look what I wrapped” moments when your spouse clearly handled the awkwardly shaped package (you know, the one that looks like a confused swan).

Pro Tip: Make it a competition. Whoever wraps the most gifts gets to pick the Christmas movie for the night—even if it’s Die Hard. (Yes, it is a Christmas movie.)

4. Budget Like a Power Couple

Holiday spending can spiral out of control faster than you can say “50% off.” Sit down together, set a budget, and stick to it. This is not the time for a “surprise” splurge on a 10-foot inflatable Santa. Teamwork is key: one of you can hunt for deals while the other keeps an eagle eye on the credit card statement.

Pro Tip: If you’re really feeling the pinch, agree to a gift-free Christmas. Instead, give the gift of “quality time.” (And by “quality time,” we mean binge-watching your favorite show in matching pajamas.)

5. Tackle the In-Laws Together

Whether they’re overly helpful or completely oblivious, in-laws can be… a lot. Present a united front. If your mom insists on criticizing the gravy, don’t leave your spouse to fend for themselves. And when his dad “accidentally” knocks over your centerpiece, smile through gritted teeth together.

Pro Tip: Create a safe word. If things get too intense, drop the code word (like “Nutcracker”) and retreat to the kitchen for a “dishwashing emergency.”

6. Schedule “Us Time” Amid the Chaos

Between baking cookies, caroling, and avoiding holiday traffic, it’s easy to forget about each other. Make time for a date night—even if it’s just hot cocoa and a Hallmark movie after the kids are asleep. Reconnect and remind yourselves why you’re such an awesome team.

Pro Tip: Sneak in a “holiday kiss” under the mistletoe every chance you get. It’s cheesy, sure, but that’s what makes it great.

7. Laugh Through the Mishaps

The holidays rarely go as planned. The turkey might burn. The Christmas tree might topple over during an overenthusiastic decorating session. Instead of pointing fingers, laugh it off. These moments make the best memories.

Pro Tip: Keep a holiday “bloopers” journal. Write down the year Aunt Clara gave everyone socks with their names spelled wrong, or the time you accidentally served eggnog that was way too spiked. One day, these stories will be the highlights of your holiday traditions.

The Secret Ingredient: Gratitude

At the heart of all this holiday hustle is one simple truth: you’re in it together. Remember to appreciate your partner for their efforts, quirks, and that one time they saved you from eating Aunt Susan’s questionable casserole. A little gratitude goes a long way in turning holiday stress into holiday cheer.

So, this Christmas and New Year, take on the season not just as husband and wife but as the unstoppable, slightly sarcastic, and deeply loving team you are. You’ve got this—together. Cheers to a season full of love, laughter, and just the right amount of wine.