It gets better every day. Over the past year, we’ve settled into our new home, went on an amazing honeymoon in Mexico, and cherished the ups and downs of every day life. And part of that happiness is due to the great advice we received from friends and family along the way, including:

My sister, who evidently watches a lot of TV

“I’ve learned a lot about marriage from watching Family Feud.

1. Support your team – even if the answer is not the best, respond with “good answer,
   good answer” Same goes in marriage, support one another’s dreams and goals and be
   each other’s biggest cheerleader
2. When asked after a lighting round, always say “we wanna play, Steve!” – I hope in your
   marriage you’ll always be willing to play, take a risk and go all in. And finally,
3. Win or lose, celebrate and act like you just won the prize – This one is
   pretty self explanatory, but have fun and hold each other tight during the good and hard
   times that life may bring you.”

Erin

Carol, who knows exactly how to lighten the mood

“I know I’m supposed to offer up relationship advice, but I’m single with a cat, so what do I know?! So here’s a Mad Lib from the wedding party instead:

What’s some advice that’s worth its weight in STEEL? First, let’s be real. FLOOFY disagreements are inevitable and can be as petty as fighting over whether to order curried CHEESECAKE or CHOCOLATE MOLTEN CAKE. Just remember that a(n) SPICY wife is a(n) HAIRY life. And when you act like a KERFLUFFLE, just apologize! Get in the habit of saying BYE BUDDY, HOPE YOU FIND YOUR DAD! And never go to bed BOTHERED. 

Remember to fan the DOGS of romance. Draw up a luxurious SMIRNOFF ICE bath and light some UN-SCOOPED KITTY LITTER scented candles for your beloved. But in all seriousness, the most important advice I can offer is to choose to love each other every day, even the hard ones, and always have fun.”

Caroline

Becca, who must’ve had a bad experience in the past…

“Get the absolute best Christmas tree stand you can. It’ll save your marriage.”

Becca

Garrett, my big brother from another mother

“Savor all the time you can and make mental images. But also make space for yourselves and remember it’s okay to be a little selfish with your time and preferences.

Garrett

Carter, quoting Nickelback

“I’m gonna trade this life for fortune and fame. I’d even cut my hair and change my name… Hey, hey, I wanna be a rockstar”

Carter

Brittany’s uncles, who have collectively been married for a very long time

“See if you’re still smiling in 25 years. LOL.”

Danny, Wayne, and Nick

Bobby, who forgot I’m a practicing martial artist

“Conflict is good sometimes.”

Bobby

Casey, who can rock the piano and your heart

“Love is like a pool. Take the plunge and meet in the middle where you’re both the most vulnerable.”

Casey

Brittany’s dad, the most photogenic person in the room

“Just keep doing what you’re doing.”

John