1. Deck the halls (and arguments, too!)

Decorating can bring out the decorator and dictator in us all. While one spouse dreams of tasteful white lights, the other is out on the ladder, hanging inflatable reindeer from the chimney. Compromise gets tangled like Christmas lights, sparking frustration instead of holiday joy. Remember, it’s not about the decor—it’s about the love beneath it.

“A house is built by wisdom and becomes strong through good sense.” — Proverbs 24:3

Read more about conflict in happy marriages at Verily Magazine!

2. In-laws or outlaws?

When your in-laws overstay their welcome or critique your gravy (again), tension can simmer. Balancing family visits can feel like juggling flaming candy canes. Set boundaries, smile, and laugh at the chaos—it’s better than crying!

“Honor your father and mother” (and maybe your spouse’s, too) — Exodus 20:12

Read more about in-law conflict at Aleteia!

3. The grinch of gift-giving

Nothing says “holiday stress” like mismatched gift expectations. One of you loves elaborate surprises, while the other bought socks… again. Instead of letting unmet expectations steal joy, focus on the thought, not the tag.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above.” — James 1:17

Read more about gift disappointment at The Mom Hour!

4. The feast or famine fiasco

Holiday feasts can turn into holiday fights. From who’s cooking what to the great cranberry sauce debate (canned vs. fresh), food friction is real. Share the workload, praise the turkey (even if it’s dry), and savor the togetherness.

“Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife.” — Proverbs 17:1

Read more about Food Friction from Prevention!

5. Schedule struggles

Whose traditions take priority this year? Yours, theirs, or the neighbors? Juggling calendars can feel like navigating a sleigh through a snowstorm. Communicate early and often to avoid collisions!

“Make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification.” — Romans 14:19

Read about healthy conflict in relationships at Evie!

6. Budget blizzards

Money worries can snowball into bigger conflicts. Overspending on gifts, travel, or decorations leaves couples feeling more drained than their bank account. Set a budget together and stick to it.

“The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” — Proverbs 21:20

Read more on saving this season at Ramsey Solutions!

7. Holiday burnout blues

With parties, shopping, and endless to-do lists, the holidays can leave you both frazzled and snappy. Carve out time to rest and reconnect, reminding each other why you’re celebrating in the first place.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

Read more about simplifying the season this year at Refine!

8. Too much togetherness (or too little)

Family time is a gift… until it’s not. Too much togetherness can make tempers flare, while too little leaves couples feeling neglected. Strike a balance between family and couple time to keep spirits bright.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9

Here are some great Christmas date ideas from Apartment Therapy!