So, you just found out you’re expecting your first baby. Congrats! Your life is about to change in ways you can’t even begin to fathom. No matter how much research you do, how many parenting books you skim (or use as a coaster for your third-trimester ice cream bowl), nothing quite prepares you for the absolute rollercoaster ahead. And the best part? No refunds, no exchanges.

Now, while your newborn will demand most of your attention—because, well, survival—one thing that often gets pushed aside is your marriage. Keeping that relationship strong when you both resemble sleep-deprived zombies is no small feat. But fear not! With a little effort (and a whole lot of caffeine), you can keep the spark alive while navigating the wild world of first-time parenting.

Finding Time Together—Even When It Feels Impossible

Everyone tells new parents, “Make sure you still date each other!” Yeah, sure, because nothing screams romance like trying to stay awake while watching a 20-minute sitcom before one of you passes out on the couch. The reality is, you may not have the luxury of weekly date nights, and that’s okay. Quality time doesn’t have to mean escaping your child like you’re breaking out of prison.

Family photography session Athens GA with newborn and parents.

Instead, lean into the chaos. Have dinner together—yes, even if it means eating takeout while bouncing a fussy baby. Watch a movie, even if you have to pause it 17 times. Hold hands while pushing a stroller down the sidewalk like the absolute parenting bosses you are. The goal is connection, not perfection.

And don’t stress about having “adult conversation.” Listen, when your entire day revolves around keeping a tiny human alive, talking about the baby is inevitable. Embrace it! Your child is a living, breathing testament to your love. “Look at this masterpiece we created,” you’ll say, as said masterpiece spits up on your shirt. Beautiful.

📸 Want to capture these early days before they fly by? Check out my newborn gallery here!

A Little “Thank You” Goes a Long Way

Parenting is a team sport, and let’s be real—sometimes it feels like one of you is carrying the entire squad while the other is on the bench trying to Google “how to get a baby to sleep in under five seconds.” (Spoiler: no such trick exists.)

The smallest gestures of appreciation can make a world of difference. Notice your partner doing something helpful? Say thank you. Spouse changed a diaper? Thank them, even if it was their turn. Managed to shower today? Congratulations, that’s a win for both of you! Verbal high-fives go a long way when you’re both running on fumes.

And then there’s the holy grail of love languages for new parents: sleep. If your partner lets you sleep in while they take over baby duty for an hour? That’s basically the equivalent of an all-expenses-paid vacation at a five-star resort. Recognize those little moments and return the favor when you can.

Keeping Faith at the Center

All jokes aside, one of the best things you can do for your marriage in this season is to keep a strong foundation. Whether it’s through prayer, attending church together, or just leaning on each other when times get tough, making faith a priority will carry you through the most exhausting, beautiful, and overwhelming moments.

At the end of the day, this first year is an adjustment for both of you. It’s messy, exhausting, and full of trial and error (so much error). But it’s also full of joy, laughter, and moments that will make your heart feel like it’s about to burst. So take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, and remember—you’ve got this.

💕 Want to document this incredible season of life? Let’s connect and chat about a newborn or family session!