How to Decorate a Newlywed's Home

Look at decorating magazines, model homes, furniture stores, decorating websites, decorating shows or your friends' homes together. Discuss what you both like and dislike, showing each other things that really stand out to you. Create a folder with these images, either with papers or on your computer. Create a "his" folder and a "hers" folder.

Compile a third folder of things you both like by going through each other's folders. Compromise if your tastes are vastly different by choosing an important room in the house for you to decorate and letting your partner have full control over another room that's important to him. Add a few details in every room that you both enjoy.

Select an inspiration piece for each room that you both absolutely love. For example, if you both want to use a large, black leather sectional in your living room, that will be your focal point in the room. Your inspiration piece can be a favorite photo of the two of you from your honeymoon, the vase you bought on your first vacation together or a souvenir from your first date. The piece can be meaningful and sentimental or practical and functional, as long as you both agree on it. Build your theme, color scheme and decorating style from that piece for each room. For example, a blown-up photo of you on the beach together can serve as the base for a beach-themed room with a sandy beige, creamy white, coral pink and sky blue color scheme. This room will likely feel comfortable to both of you, even if you prefer traditional decor and her taste is more contemporary.

Paint the walls together using the colors you picked out together. Neutral colors will likely last longer, though at least one accent wall with a burst of color or interesting wallpaper will add personality to the room.

Salvage any furniture you can from your previous homes to save money, or purchase large pieces that you both love, such as sofas, dining sets and a bed. Consider your current and future needs when purchasing new furniture, such as if you plan on moving into a larger home within the next few years or your current budget. Prioritize the pieces that matter most, such as your newlywed bed. Repurpose old furniture by painting it, staining it or reupholstering it to make it belong to both of you if new furniture isn't practical right now.

Create a luxurious, romantic and inviting space with new textiles. Area rugs, curtains or drapes, bedding and throw pillows can dress up any room with any furniture to get the desired result. Use satin bed sheets or a down comforter on your newlywed bed to create an intimate space to cuddle up with each other every day.

Accessorize your home with interesting, fun or quirky items that show off your personalities and relationship. Sprinkle photos of the two of you throughout your home to surround yourselves with the memories and reasons you got married, as well as to create a space that reflects who you are as individuals and as a couple. Include vases, flowers and candles for a romantic touch.