There is no advice or secret tip to make a marriage successful. Marriage is a series of ups and downs, trials and tribulations, laughter and tears (hopefully more laughter than tears), joy and sorrow. Marriage is a process, one you have to work at – you must learn to compromise, learn from each other, continue to love each other and find time for romance. But there is no real “key” to making it 100% secure. If there was there would be no divorce! But we can learn from those who have long and happy marriages what the “key” was for them – and maybe incorporate these tidbits of advice into our own lives.
We asked our readers, our Facebook Fans and our Twitter Followers for their “Key” piece of advice and this is what they said:
Some of our readers feel that the sanctity of a marriage guided by God is the most important aspect. Jamie B., from NC says: “Constant communication, trust and God’s Grace!!” is the key for her. Pamela W. from CA concurs, “The key is having God at the center of the marriage and submitting to Him first and foremost.”
A few of our readers acknowledge that being understanding no matter the situation, big or small, is the key to a successful marriage. Fiolina L. feels couples should have “patience, LOTS of it.” Jennifer K., from NY agrees that “not sweating the small stuff” is the secret for her. Newlywed Anthony G., from NY knows that “Understanding one another as well as accepting each other as a FRIEND.” is the most important aspect to any relationship. While understanding is important, it goes hand in hand with what Ginger A. and Brandy M. readers from Texas, tell us. It is a combination of “trust, patience and communication”. Brandy goes on that, “it turns out, there’s lots a keys! Ima need a key chain of some sort!” – and we at Little Things agree, the “key” to a happy marriage may be a little of everything!
Also on top of our list of “keys” was the theme of romance, “respect and love”, according to our Facebook fan Izzabelle C., and Rosalynn G. from NY affirms this sentiment. Rosalynn thinks that all couples should, “Keep doing and saying things that will give your spouse a sense of importance.” While Pattie C., from FL wrapped this theme up nicely by stating couples should, “Kiss each other goodnight, every night !!!”
Humor, it turns out, is just as important as all the other keys above. Nicole M. from NY made us laugh when she told us her secret is, “Working opposite shifts!” While Kathy W. also from NY made us smile with her comment, “Let your hubby play softball on Sundays and he’ll do your bidding all week long!” So that’s the secret ingredient we were missing all along! Thanks, Kathy!
And finally, we think the “key” that every man should know to keep their wife happy is a tip from Dan. C from NY, “Never, NEVER, answer the question, ‘Does this make me look fat?’ Fake a seizure if you have to , but get out of the room. Then, 30 seconds later, wander back in the room as if you didn’t hear the question and say, ‘Wow, is that new?’ It looks great on you!” Repeat as often as possible.”
If you’ve enjoyed this post, why not incorporate it into your wedding day? Ask your guests to write down their “keys” to a happy marriage on little cards or sheets of paper and keep them safe in a guest book, a reception card holder, photo album or even frame them in a photo collage to hang in your new home so you will always have their “keys” of wisdom with you throughout your happy marriage. And don’t forget to share your key’s with them, a perfect complimentary wedding favor for this wedding theme is our bestselling, Antique Key Bottle Opener shown here:
Bronze Finish Antique Style Key Bottle Opener Favors in Gift Box
Haven’t weighed in on the conversation yet? Join by commenting below, what do you think is the “key” to a happy and successful marriage?
From bold navy stripes, to pops of red and rope details, we love all things associated with the trend toward nautical! There are so many ways to incorporate nautical elements into your celebration whether you want to give a subtle nod to the sea or have a full blown sea-side soiree! Anchors are a popular icon and other favorite include: sailboats, lighthouses, compasses, ship steering wheels, sea shells, sea stars, and even lobsters! Here are our top 3 nautical favors:
