Step away from the Netflix, newlyweds. The wedding has happened, the planning is done, the thank you notes have been sent… it’s time to engage in a little communication with your spouse. Here are some of the “must-read” books for newlyweds (or those looking to tie the knot soon), to help guide you both through financial struggles, raising a family, how to be a better listener and how to communicate love to one another.
1. THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGESGARY CHAPMAN
In this New York Times Best Seller, you will figure out which one of the five dialects of love you and your partner both lean toward for giving and receiving love. Through humor and some practical advice, author Gary Chapman reveals tips to make the relationship work by discovering
2. THE COUPLE’S GUIDE TO FINANCIAL COMPATIBILITY by JEFF MOTSKE
Financial problems can take a toll no matter what stage of life you are in. A lack of communication on finances in your relationship can truly hurt you both. The book is filled with crucial tips to help anyone at their relationship stage achieve financial freedom. Jeff provides the tools to help you discuss your finances, combining finances, planning retirement, all while helping to maintain the strong bond in your relationship. The guide is filled with numerous questions partners need to ask one another.
3. THE GIFTS OF IMPERFECTION by BRENÉ BROWN
Brené Brown, a leading expert on shame, authenticity and belonging, shares ten guideposts on the power of wholehearted living and how to engage with the world from a place of worthiness. In the guideposts, Brené shares this journey of how we can engage our minds and hearts to gain the courage, compassion and connection to know that we are enough.
4. ONE DISH, TWO WAYS by JANE KENNEDY
Are you and your love picky eaters? The solution? This book! In Jane Kennedy’s cookbook, she offers a handful of meal solutions. The book is filled with recipes for adults, kids and even those “grownups” who may be as picky as the kids (no judgment, of course). With each dish, Jane begins with a base meal that can be added to or deconstructed, depending on the food preferences, allergies and restrictions.
5. THE REAL THING by ELLEN MCCARTHY
From a Washington Post weddings reporter turned author, Ellen shares the mystery, science and secrets how we find love and make it last, through the hundreds of weddings and relationships she had seen during her days as a reporter. Whether you are on the quest for love or looking to strength your relationship, this book provides a layout to reading the human heart.
6. THE SECRETS OF HAPPY FAMILIES by BRUCE FEILER
Bruce shares the secrets of how you and your spouse can align your goals on a range of scenarios; what to have for dinner and how to raise a family. This book provides advice on how to make your family run smoothly and feel authentic to who you are as a couple. The book acts as a blueprint for modern families, with a new approach to family dynamics, inspired by techniques from experts in a range of disciplines; science, business, sports and the military.
