Get Ready To Deck The Halls With IKEA's Magical New Holiday Collection

ikea holiday decorations for 2023ikea holiday decorations for 2023

We hear those sleigh bells ringing early this year, thanks to IKEA's brand-new holiday collection! Inspired by Sweden's real-life winter wonderland feel, the collection pays homage to all the things that make the holiday season so magical. The pieces are affordable, festive, and versatile making this the perfect holiday drop to shop.

And, just like Santa's elves, we're here to help make this season as carefree and happy as can be — starting with curating the best finds from this extensive collection of holiday decor. Happy shopping!

Tin With Lid, Set of 3

From wrapping paper essentials like bows and tape to cookies and other tasty treats, these tins are going to be your best friend when it comes to storage this holiday season. The adorable prints on them allow you to proudly display them on your countertop, giving you both functionality and decor!

Cushion Cover

Throw pillows are one of the easiest ways to spruce up a space for the holidays, and cushion covers make it so that you can use the ones you already have! The sherpa material of these ones just feels so cozy and perfect for the season.

Ornaments - Set of 4

Ornaments are the one thing you really can never have too many of. These ones are especially cute with their simple designs and are made out of durable plastic that make them perfect for people with curious kids or pets!

Multicolor Tablecloth

Make your holiday food spread that much more festive with this fun tablecloth! The designs on it are super fun, but the best part is that it can be thrown in the washing machine if anything spills.

Ribbed Glass Ornaments - Set of 4

These glass ornaments just look so classy and give your home the perfect amount of shimmer. You can hang these on your tree or just around the house for a little extra holiday magic.

Bamboo Wall Decoration

If you're looking for a versatile piece of holiday home decor, you can't go wrong with this bamboo wall decoration. Throw some pictures in there, line it with fairy lights, put little holiday trinkets inside - the possibilities are endless.

Advent Calendar

Advent calendars are one of the best parts of the holiday season, but they can get tricky to store. This one is so cute and folds flat when not in use, saving you space without compromising any of the fun!

Red & Black Throw Blanket

This throw is the perfect addition to a wintertime movie night. It's warm and cozy, with a print that feels luxurious.

Green Serving Bowl

Make all your holiday treats look even more fantastic with this green serving bowl. The elevated height and the tinted glass make it feel like a timeless and elegant piece.

Handmade Christmas Tree

Let your home feel fun and festive without worrying about what you'll do with the decorations once the season is over. This adorable little tree folds up when you're done, making it easy to store and use again next year.

Platter with Stand

This platter is subtle while still feeling like the perfect addition for the holiday season. It's great for serving pastries or other winter treats.

Holiday Doormat

Let it be known that your home is ready for all the holiday festivities with this playful doormat. The red and green accents make it the perfect vibe for the season.

Gift Bags - Set of 3

Wrapping presents can become a tedious task, but these gift bags make things so. much. easier. Plus, they're reusable which makes them a great environmentally friendly option!

Hand Towels - Set of 2

These hand towels are an easy way to make your kitchen feel more Christmassy! The heart design can be brought back out for Valentine's Day, too, making it the perfect holiday piece.

Gray Slippers

With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you deserve some TLC. These slippers are so comfy and perfect to wear all season long.

Already feeling the holiday spirit? Sign up for our email newsletter to stay ahead of all the holiday home decor trends!

Header image via IKEA

New Year's Eve is drawing closer, which means it's finally time for all things sparkly, celebratory, and of course, boozy. Whether you're planning to go dancing with your squad for the night, or rather want to stay in watching all the cheesy TV specials, we have the perfect New Year's cocktails for you.

You can enjoy these New Year's Eve cocktail recipes for a pregame or a chilled-out home hang — the choice is yours! We know that not everyone wants to drop hundreds of dollars on overpriced bar drinks, which is exactly why these NYE drinks are perfect.

Craft one of these delicious drinks, create your own DIY confetti poppers, draw up a menu for an impressive charcuterie, and start planning the best New Year's Eve function. If you're not down for alcoholic drinks, we got you covered on tons of tasty mocktails to celebrate with.

47 New Year's Eve Cocktail Recipes We'll Be Sipping Into 2025

Prosecco Martini

Brit + Co

Let the deliciousness of this festive cocktail bubble over during your New Year's Eve celebrations. Vodka, lemon juice, and Prosecco come together for this can't-miss drink. (via Brit + Co)

Speak Now Spritz

Brit + Co

Toss together some plum liqueur, Prosecco, tonic water to craft this stunning New year's Eve cocktail. The cherry on top, of course, is adding the edible glitter for the glitz + glam factor! (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Fireball Winter Mule

Brit + Co

Delight guests with this New Year's Eve cocktail recipe that leverages a few of our favorite ingredients, like spicy Fireball whiskey and ginger beer. (via Brit + Co)

Lemon Drop

Brit + Co

To us, the ultimate Lemon Drop martini is equal parts sweet and sour, but you can play with the ratios in this recipe to reach your desired flavor balance. (via Brit + Co)

Butterscotch Bourbon Milk Punch 

Brit + Co

This creamy and boozy beverage will expand your holiday cocktail repertoire, and is the perfect drink to sip in front of a fireplace. It also includes a homemade butterscotch syrup recipe that'll please your sweet tooth cravings. Yum! (via Brit + Co)

Mocha Martini

Brit + Co

This New Year's Eve cocktail can thankfully double as a chocolate dessert to satiate all the sweet tooth-ers at your party. It's only four ingredients, so you won't be stuck at the bar all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Bananas Foster

Brit + Co

To make this totally NYE-ready drink, shake up 1.5 oz Eggo Brunch in a Jar Sippin’ Cream, 1 oz Banana Pudding Sippin' Cream, and 1.5 oz your milk of choice for a super creamy result. The best part about this recipe is you can whip it up post-New Year's, too, for an approachable brunch cocktail. (via Brit + Co)

Hot Toddy

Brit + Co

For the pals that tend to lean cold, a hot cocktail like this Hot Toddy will do wonderfully. This one only requires three entire ingredients for maximum sipping. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Sweet Holiday Storm Cocktail

Half Baked Harvest

Drops of jalapeño honey keep this New Year's Eve drink interesting on the flavor side. Indulge in this complex, fizzy cocktail on those cold AF winter nights. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Negroni

The Endless Meal

You'll need Campari, gin, sweet vermouth and orange peels to craft this strong drink. Enjoy it slowly throughout the night to truly savor it! (via The Endless Meal)

Apple Cider Habanero

Dos Equis

This New Year's Eve cocktail is super juicy with a boozy finish. To make it, you'll first make your own infused habanero apple cider by soaking habanero peppers in a gallon of apple cider for up to 24 hours. Once that's done, stir 3 oz of the cider with .5 oz lime juice and 1 oz tequila reposado. Then, top everything off with Dos Equis Ambar Especialand some apple slices! (via Dos Equis)

Champagne Life

Photo by Madelynne Boykin / @BitesandBevsMedia

This sipper is crafted with gluten-free and vegan vodka, so you can serve it to your friends that may have different dietary needs. To make it, shake 1.5 oz YoCo vodka, .5 oz passion fruit syrup, and .5 oz lemon juice over ice, then strain into a champagne flute and top with sparkling wine. (via YoCo Vodka)

Manhattan Beach

Happenstance Whiskey

For the whiskey gals, this Manhattan Beach cocktail will be perfect for NYE. To make it, stir 2 oz Happenstance Bourbon, 1 oz Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth, 3 drops of Angostura bitters, and 3 drops of orange bitters over ice. Garnish with a cherry and orange peel for an extra touch of elegance. (via Happenstance Whiskey)

Salted Caramel Iced Coffee Cocktail

Pizzazzerie

To guarantee that your guests are awake and wide-eyed when the ball drops, offering a hit of caffeine in cocktail form is as brilliant as it gets. (via Pizzazzerie)

Apple Cider Mimosa

The Endless Meal

Apple cider, bourbon and cinnamon notes swirl together in this amazing sip. (via The Endless Meal)

Frosted Mistletoe Margarita

Half Baked Harvest

Your guests won't be able to resist this delicious margarita recipe that gets a holiday twist. Not only does this drink look gorgeous topped with sugared cranberries, it tastes amazing, too. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Aperol Spritz

Culinary Hill

You can truly never go wrong with an Aperol Spritz. Though we love them for any occasion, this recipe is sure to be a big hit at your holiday parties. (via Culinary Hill)

Spiced Chai-tini

Chef Bai

Move aside, espresso martinis. We're simply swooning over this sweet chai cocktail! (via Chef Bai)

French Pear Martini

Freut Cake

This chic cocktail boasts sophistication. With chilled Champagne, pear vodka and elderflower liqueur, this effervescent drink will make it impossible to enjoy a classic dirty martini ever again. (via Freut Cake)

A Floral Affair

United Sodas of America

Pour half a glass of United Sodas Pear Elderflower, then add 1/4 glass vodka, 1/4 glass St. Germain, and garnish with a lemon twist! (via United Sodas of America)

Citrus Pomegranate Champagne Twist

Half Baked Harvest

Pomegranate and citrus notes couldn't be a better combo for celebrating the holidays and new year. Plus, we could never say no to the champagne! (viaHalf Baked Harvest)

Sparkling Pomegranate Cranberry Sangria

Justine Celina

Here you’ll find major inspo from wintry flavors, New Year’s Eve bubbly and Gatsby glam. This classy sangria offers fruity flavors and gingery notes — and the addition of Grand Marnier sends it right over the top. (via Justine Celina)

Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned

Half Baked Harvest

This boozy, spicy drink will warm you right up in the middle of winter. Try out this drink to practice your at-home bartending skills. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Vanilla Plum Shrub

The Modern Proper

One swig of this concoction, and visions of vanilla plum shrubs will be dancing in your head. Though a shrub takes a little extra work to create, it’s totally worth it. (via The Modern Proper)

Cinnamon and Cranberry Bourbon Spritzers

Cooking and Beer

Cinnamon, cranberries and bourbon — oh my! With the addition of fizzy ginger ale, this cocktail recipe takes on a whole new level of flavor that will wow your guests and have them passing on the bubbly. (via Cooking and Beer)

Sparkling Cranberry-Orange Champagne Punch

Boulder Locavore

Champagne alone is the perfect way to bid a fancy farewell to the last year. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t jazz up that Champagne. Cranberry juice and Grand Marnier do just that in this ruby-hued beauty. (via Boulder Locavore)

Blood Orange Champagne Mule

Half Baked Harvest

Forget your classic Moscow mule, and try out this recipe made with blood oranges instead. This sip is light and refreshing, and sure to keep the party going. (via Half Baked Harvest)

The Last Word Cocktail

Pinch and Swirl

Fresh lime juice and a maraschino liqueur are blended together to create some seriously bright flavors in this potent elixir. You’ll want to go easy on this cocktail, but if you can’t get enough of that awesome flavor, the amount of alcohol can be reduced. You’ll thank yourself in the morning. (via Pinch and Swirl)

Roasted Cranberry Gin Cocktail

Signature Concoctions

Kicking off the new year has never been better with this cranberry-forward New Year's Eve cocktail. Roasted cranberries add tons of depth to its flavor. (via Signature Concoctions)

Kir Royale

Culinary Hill

This unique cocktail leverages blackcurrant liquor and champagne. Super easy to pour for every guest! (via Culinary Hill)

Perfect Manhattan Cocktail

A Spicy Perspective

This ever-so-boozy sipper will is the perfect pick for a classy night in on NYE. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Coconut Vanilla Mint Lemon Drop

Chef Bai

Take this deliciously fresh mocktail recipe to the party by adding your alcohol of choice. (via Chef Bai)

Persimmon Cocktail

Salt & Lavender

This cocktail, perfect for New Year's celebrations, comes together with just four ingredients. Bet your friends have never tried this one! (via Salt & Lavender)

Rosemary 75 Champagne Cocktail

Goodie Godmother

Thrill your guests with this magical cocktail that changes color right before your very eyes! Gin and sparkling wine pair wonderfully, and welcome the addition of rosemary for a unique and herbaceous flair. (via Goodie Godmother)

Vanilla, Pepper and Thyme Martini

What Should I Make For...

Black and pink peppercorns kick this dazzling cocktail up a few notches, making it an awesome contender for your NYE party. If you want to impress your guests, this awe-inspiring cocktail is the way to go. (via What Should I Make For…)

St. Germain Kumquat Cocktail

Talia Bunting

This low-cal drink is full of citrusy flavor and is incredibly refreshing. Fresh kumquats are joined by elderflower liqueur to create a blend that is classy and downright delish. (via Talia Bunting)

Green Chartreuse and Pear Brandy Cocktail

House of Hipsters

This pretty-in-pink cocktail possesses an old-school feel with a modern spin. Notes of pear will liven up your tastebuds along with citrus and bitters. This may look like a dainty drink at first glance, but it’s a potent one — so sit back and sip easy. (via House of Hipsters)

Classic Moscow Mule

Culinary Hill

The freshness of a classic Moscow mule cocktail will keep NYE guests sipping all night long. (via Culinary Hill)

Cranberry Moscow Mule with Homemade Cranberry Simple Syrup

Boulder Locavore

Throw a splash of holiday cheer into the traditional Moscow mule with cranberries. If you’re afraid to mess with a good thing, worry not — this baby is still fizzy and it will still warm your heart with its gingery spice. (via Boulder Locavore)

Pomegranate Cranberry Champagne Punch

Chef Savvy

When you think of holiday fruits, pomegranate and cranberries are the first that come to mind — and that’s why you need this festive punch in your life this holiday season! Pop the Champagne and pour it over a fresh cranberry reduction and pomegranate juice for the perfect boozy refreshment. (via Chef Savvy)

Cranberry Whiskey Sour

Cilantro Parsley

Indulge in even more seasonal flavors with a tart cranberry sour that's sure to please the party. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Sprinkletini

Salt & Lavender

NYE is all about the glitz and glam, and this cocktail doesn't disappoint in that department. (via Salt & Lavender)

Spicy Tequila Soda

Cilantro Parsley

This feels like a vacation in a drink, transporting you past the wintery vibes of New Year's and straight to summer. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Lemonade Sangria

Amanda Wilens

For a super simple cocktail that tastes light and refreshing, this lemonade sangria can't be beaten. (via Amanda Wilens)

Dirty Shirley

Culinary Hill

This is a fun grown-up version of the classic drink you loved to order as a kid! (via Culinary Hill)

Peach Bellinis

Barley & Sage

This fruity New Year's Eve cocktail tastes like a peaches and cream cupcake in a drink. Who wouldn't want that to ring in the new year? (via Barley & Sage)

Pomegranate & Persimmon Winter Sangria

Salt & Lavender

This refreshing punch is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. (via Salt & Lavender)

Follow us on Pinterest for more festive + classy New Year’s recipes!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations. This post has been updated.

When it comes to New Year's Eve celebrations, the first thought that probably springs to mind is boozing it up with an NYE cocktail. And while there's nothing wrong with sipping some bubbly (if that's your inclination), those of us who prefer to keep thingsnon-alc may feel like there are no New Year's-appropriate activities for our preferences. We say that nothing could be further from the truth! Whether you're pregnant, abstaining, or just taking a break from the booze, here are 10 fun ideas for ringing in 2025, the sober way.

Attend A Silent Disco

A few years ago, just as the sober-curious movement was gaining steam, companies like Daybreaker brought 6 a.m. sober dance parties to the masses. In a similar vein are remote silent discos – events where you put your headphones on and dance it out to the music of world-class DJs right in the comfort of your own home (or in person, if you feel like venturing out).

A quick Google search will reveal that there are tons of options to shake it off on New Year's Eve, whether remotely or in-person in your city. Because silent discos have an alternative vibe, they're much more sober-friendly than traditional clubs and dance parties.

Make A Tea Bar

Photo by Jill Wellington / PEXELS

If you've ever been to a party where they had aProsecco bar or something similar, you know how fun themed bars can be. Why not make a NA equivalent with a tea bar? We're not just talking about hot water and tea bags... include exciting staples like bubble tea, kombucha, Southern-style sweet iced tea, and more!

Do A Goal-Setting Ritual

Brit + Co

Not in the mood to party this year? Celebrate the New Year with some introspection by doing a goal-setting ritual. You can design the ritual in whatever manner you like, but we recommend something along the lines of:

  • Light a candle and sit quietly for a few minutes.
  • Whip out your journal and take inventory of the last year: What were your best memories? What are you grateful for? Where do you think you could've improved?
  • In your journal (we have some killer prompts to start you off), mindfully list out your goals for 2025. They don't have to be New Year's resolutions, exactly, but include small steps you can take in the new year to help you achieve your goals!

Make A 2025 Scrapbook

Brit + Co

Before New Year's Eve, head to your local craft store and pick up some supplies for making an old-fashioned scrapbook. Print out some photos from your most treasured memories of the year (we like printing with Walgreens), and gather any magazines you purchased or journal entries you wrote.

You can also look up some news headlines that made an impact on you, and print out the article as well as photos of any notable celebs or politicians who made the news. On New Year's eve, put together a scrapbook of what made 2024, 2024.

Good, bad, or otherwise, the year was one to remember — so create a momento that will help you re-live the past year in the years to come.

Plan A Costume Party

Brit + Co

Believe it or not, masquerade balls, dressing up in costumes, and concealing one's identity have a long history in the historical celebrations of Christmastime. So we think a New Year's costume party is a fully appropriate idea for a sober New Year's Eve.

Who needs booze to have fun when you can dress up as whoever you want for a night of merriment and mystery?

Karaoke It Up

Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

Another fun party pastime that's fun with or without booze? Singing! Grab some friends for a sober karaoke night either at your house or a private karaoke room. The singing's bound to be better than it would be if you were imbibing... who knows, maybe you'll steal the show with your rendition of "I'm Just Ken."

Cook A Fancy Meal

Whether you're spending the evening with your S/O or your BFF, cook a fancydinner for two. New Year's Eve is the perfect time to get fancy with food, so use this opportunity to ring in 2025 with only the finest cuisine. Don't forget to make a mocktail to go with!

Host A Game Night

Brit + Co

Bring all your besties over and host a board game night that's sure to be one for the books. Have everyone bring their favorite game – from Cards Against Humanity to Codenames – for a riotous evening that will remind you that you absolutely don't need booze to have a rowdy night of laughter!

Play 2024 Trivia

Photo by Askar Abayev / PEXELS

Before New Year's Eve, compile a long list of trivia questions about 2024. Alternatively, have a friend do it for you, or do a quick Google search... there are a lot of trivia quizzes out there. On the big night, gather your squad together to see how much you remember about 2024. The results may surprise you!

Host A Murder-Mystery Dinner

Image via Amazon

Murder-mystery dinners are still one of the best ways to facilitate a heart-racing and mind-boggling party. Pick up one of the many murder mystery dinner kits out there and have your besties over for a night of thinking on your toes — to be fair, it's probably best to skip the booze for this idea anyway, for the sake of your mental acuity.

Are you planning a sober New Year's Eve party this year? Tweet us @BritandCo to share your plans, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more booze-free hacks and party ideas!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations. This post has been updated.

Tablescaping has become a bit of an art form — a fun way to show off your creativity while getting everyone in the holiday mood. From stunning centerpieces to charming surprises at each place setting, these Christmas tablescape ideas will make your holiday table festive and cozy, whether you prefer to DIY or shop for the perfect accents. Plus, your guests will be totally impressed!

Disco Balls

Rose and Grey

Rose and Grey Braided Pink Napkin Rings

This tablescape is the sweetest with ric rac napkins, braided rings, colorful candles, and disco balls, because why not make it a dance party?

Velvet Bows

Norsu

Same Time Tomorrow Napkin Ring

Velvet bows are on trees, tables, and wreaths this holiday and the more the better. Add them to your napkins, your glassware, even your candles!

Ribbon-Tied Candles

cottonbro studio

Here's a DIY to try, a simple ribbon-tied candle.

Prelit Garland

Pavel Danilyuk

Crate & Barrel Pre-Lit LED Norway Spruce Christmas Garland

Fresh or faux, add some Nordic vibes to your table with greenery and starry white lights. Add candles and vintage baubles to upgrade the look.

Vintage Baubles

cottonbro studio

Williams Sonoma Gilded Champagne Ornament Faux Centerpiece

Metallic or colorful, adding vintage-inspired glass ornaments to your table centerpiece is sure to feel festive.

Dried Oranges

Sueda Dilli

This garland DIY is a seasonal element to add to your table and gives a woodsy Christmas vibe we love. Try this easy DIY from Call Me Cupcake.

Festive Kid's Table

Meri Meri

Meri Meri Christmas Character Garland

I'm dying over the hanging lamp idea, so cute!

Honeycomb

Etsy

Etsy Honeycomb Handmade Decoration

These honeycomb ornaments would make adorable napkin rings.

Red Stripes

The Cross

The Cross Red & Pink Stripe Ruffle Linen Napkin

Go for full-on candy cane with red and white stripes or a more subtle look with these red and dusky pink striped napkins. A little ruffled edge doesn't hurt. Look for ruffled tablecloths too!

Gingerbread Centerpiece

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn Ceramic Gingerbread Train

You can add your own Gingerbread creation or use this delightful train again and again.

Ric Rac

Bubblegum Market

Believe Christmas Ric-Rac Fringe Paper Cocktail Napkins

Ric rac always adds a playful accent to your holiday decor. Try it on napkins, tablecloths, and runners.

Cordless Lamps

Amazon

Amazon Cordless Table Lamp

Make it an intimate affair by embracing the cordless table lamp trend. These red scalloped ones are also super holiday and sweet!

Glitter!

Meri Meri

Meri Meri Candles Christmas Tree Glitter

Make or add glittery elements, like these adorable glitter trees, to your table!

Handmade Crackers

Etsy

Etsy Personalized Christmas Crackers

Velvet crackers are perfect for your elegant holiday table.

Tapers

Etsy

Etsy Christmas Tapers

Tall Christmas candles add a touch of whimsy to your table. Look for a vintage style candelabra too!

Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter for more home decor inspiration!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

As fun as Trader Joe’s snacks and desserts are, there’s one aisle you definitely should not skip – and that’s their plant section. Trader Joe’s is constantly stocking up on blooms like orchids and monsteras, all of which are easy to take care of once they make it home from the store.

Any houseplant lover knows the easiest of all easy houseplants is the famed pothos. I can water mine (I have about 5 pothos plants) once every two weeks, and they will. not. die. Right now, Trader Joe’s is selling pothos for cheap – but not just any pothos. They currently come along with a stunning hanging pot that you’ll instantly want to put up in your home.

Scroll on to discover more about this unique Trader Joe’s plant find!

@traderjoesobsessed

That’s right – Trader Joe’s shelves now include disco ball hanging planters. I repeat: disco ball hanging planters! The sphere-shaped pot is covered in reflective disco tiles that’ll certainly make your living room feel like a dance club. The best part is that pothos plants naturally look amazing when they’re grown hanging, so you can watch this baby flourish all year long.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed recently spotted the disco ball hanging planters at their local Trader Joe’s and shared the new find with their Instagram followers. Tons of them chimed in about their excitement for the product in the comments!

“I need this now😍,” one person commented.

“The way I gasped when I saw this 😍🪩,” another said.

“I bought one today and totally love it👍,” someone else commented.

“I suddenly need to buy more plants,” one more person wrote.

Several shoppers in the comment section noted that they were able to track down the disco ball hanging planters pretty easily, while others reported that they haven’t seen them in their stores quite yet. This is your sign to keep an eye out on your next TJ’s trip!

Reddit

@traderjoesobsessed reports that the disco ball hanging planters go for $12.99 in stores. Their affordable price makes them such a great gift for yourself or a loved one, plus the sparkles on the disco ball are perfect for livening up your space for a New Year’s refresh.

Run to TJ’s soon – I know I will!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more Trader Joe's news!

By now, you may be able to recognize signs of gaslighting or other toxicbehaviors, but do you know how to take everything you've learned and become a super compatible couple? According to experts, there are a few key things super compatible couples rarely argue about — even with whatever faults each person brings to the relationship table. While the topics these couples avoid may not surprise you, the reason why they're able to avoid them might. But first, let's talk about what makes couples more compatible than others.

Dr. Brooke Keels, Ph.D., LPC-MHSP, LPC-Supervisor, Chief Clinical Officer at Lighthouse Recovery, has this to say: "Couples are compatible when they share similar values, goals, and know the best way to communicate with each other." Notice she didn't say these couples are just alike.

More so, she explains that "it's about how well they handle differences, whether they can support each other through tough times, and how they connect emotionally." Dr. Keels adds, "when there’s respect, trust, and a good balance of give-and-take between them?" Dr. Keels believes this gives couples a better chance "to be in sync."

Scroll down to see the topics you'll rarely hear compatible couples arguing about!

RDNE Stock project

1. Long-term goals like marriage aren't often a cause for concern.

Have you ever dated someone that made you wonder what you saw in them once you pay attention to certain red flags? You may have found yourself arguing with them about everything from religion to reproductive health, leaving you feeling dizzy afterwards. But Dr. Keels says compatible couples are more likely to be aligned on "whether they want the same things out of life."

Her examples include:

  • Relocating for careers
  • Family planning
  • Finding somewhere to settle down in general (i.e. apartment, condo, different state, close to family, etc.,)

"This common ground lessens the chance of fighting over these big topics," Dr. Keels reiterates.

Vlada Karpovich

2. There's a lesser chance arguments about weekend activities occur.

We're no strangers to indecisive moments where we couldn't agree about what to do on the weekends with our partners, but Dr. Keels says compatible couples don't always run into this issue. "When you enjoy similar activities or have overlapping hobbies, you're more like to find ways to unwind together, rather than feeling disconnected or frustrated by each other's choices," she adds.

While it varies from couple to couple, you and your partner may enjoy the following:

  • Buying tickets to watch the latest college basketball or football game
  • Going to a 'Paint and Sip' class for fun
  • Having a mini outdoor picnic
  • Visiting a national park if it's on your couple's bucket list
  • Spending a day at a local arcade

The possibilities are endless, but all that matters is that "this mutual understanding makes spending time together feel natural and fun," according to Dr. Keels.

Mikhail Nilov

3. Communication styles aren't causing a daily disruption.

Some people have a more direct way of communicating while others may be passive or even passive-aggressive. Less arguments aren't happening because compatible couples communicate the same however. "When they both understand each other's communication style — whether it's direct or more subtle — it helps avoid misunderstandings and frustration."

Here's a couple of examples:

  • If you're having a bad day that has nothing to do with your partner, they don't take it personal when you prefer some alone time.
  • If your partner says something they perceived to be a joke, but you didn't, you're less likely to immediately accuse them of being insensitive. Instead, there's a higher chance of asking what they mean by something and expressing why you didn't like it instead of arguing.

Compatible couples "know how to express their feelings and needs in a way that the other person can easily understand" which makes "it easier to resolve issues calmly," according to Dr. Keels.

Alex Green

Are couples better (or more compatible) because they don't have a lot of arguments?

Well, no. That's actually a stretch because everyone has arguments. "Even compatible couples can argue about everyday things like chores or schedules. No matter how well they get along or how "in sync" they are, little annoyances can still pop up here and there, and cause some tension between them," Dr. Keels shares. "The difference," she points out, "is that they're usually better at handling these moments and keeping them from turning into bigger problems."

The other thing she's seen couples argue about is money. "It's such a common stress point because everyone has different habits and priorities when it comes to spending or saving," she says. But, guess what? "Compatible couples tend to approach the conversation with more understanding and a willingness to find a compromise," she continues.

If you feel like you and your partner aren't on the same page, it may not be time to break up just yet. We've learned that that it can take time to effectively communicate with a romantic partner or understand them. Compatibility is great, but it's not an indicator that a relationship will be smooth sailing!

Keira Burton

How can I have healthier disagreements with my partner?

Like we said, getting to a point where you and your partner aren't consistently hurting each other's feelings during disagreements takes time as well as skill. No one's born knowing all the answers so don't think your relationship is over because you're still figuring things out.

Dr. Keels says one way you and your partner can work on the kind of disagreements you're having is by "knowing how to communicate/compromise." Look, we heard your sigh and know it's probably the antithesis of how you feel. We struggled with compromising, but you don't get far in life thinking that everyone else has to bend to your will all the time.

"Even if they don’t see eye to eye all the time, healthy couples listen to each other's perspectives, and look for solutions that work for both of them. It’s not about 'winning' the argument and getting to say who's right, but finding common ground so they can move forward together," adds Dr. Keels.

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Also, "staying respectful event when things get heated or when you're upset" is a way to have a productive arguments, according to Dr. Keels. What happens is that "healthy couples avoid yelling or saying hurting things during disagreements," she says. This means no cursing or raising voices to the point your next door neighbors feel they have to call the police to do a wellness check on you.

"Instead, they just focus on the real problem and stay calm, which helps them work through the issue without hurting each other and the relationship," Dr. Keels says. And in the event you and your partner can't find common ground in a given moment? She highly suggests you "take breaks or pause when things get too heated."

Couples who do this "know when to step away and cool off before continuing the conversation," she adds. There are times where it's difficult to have a proper conversation when you're anxious or angry, so it's always better to revisit the topic.

Dr. Keels agrees and says, "This gives them a chance to cool down first so they can properly think things through, and think of a solution that works for both of them without saying anything they might regret."

Visit more of our relationships articles to find more advice about navigating friendships and love.