Planning an apartment makeover?

How to talk with your partner about it

You've probably noticed that your living room curtains are a little older than you would like, and you need new throw pillows as well. Maybe you've been meaning to tell your girlfriend that you're planning to repaint the garage. If things within the said lines have crossed your mind recently, then a makeover in your apartment may be well under way. It doesn't matter a lot if you plan to buy a few things or if you want to seriously decorate a room, or even if you're thinking of a complete apartment makeover. The point is, if you're living with your partner, then things like major new purchases or redecorating your place should be discussed with him/her first. The fact that your boyfriend/girlfriend stays with you means that whatever decisions you come up with will also affect him/her, so better to discuss things with each other before making up your mind on something like this.

All about budget. Even if you don't want to talk about it, one of the first things you need to discuss with your boyfriend/girlfriend is expenses. Are you going to pay for it? Is she going to handle the bill? Are you going to split it? Talking about money issue will help clear things up early – and that would minimize conflict between the two of you in the very near future. If it is just a few pillow cases or a lap blanket, you probably don't need to get into a lengthy discussion over it. But for purchases like a brand new sofa or a TV, it would be best to talk to your partner first.

Making the choice. When you've finally arrived at the decision to go ahead with your makeover plan, it might be a fun idea to get your boyfriend/girlfriend to go to the store with you and help you choose the particular item you need. Think of it like a bonding time between the two of you. Of course, it will also greatly help to get the opinion or input of your partner, especially for something that both of you will use, like a stove or a cabinet. If you're thinking of doing a painting job for a room, why not select a color you both are partial to, and do the painting together? It will help you save money, not to mention a lot more fun to do!

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