You’ve said your vows, thrown confetti, and danced the night away to some nostalgic emo bangers. Now comes the next big chapter: setting up your first home together. Cue the Pinterest boards, the moving boxes, and the existential debate over which mugs make the cut.

One thing that often gets overlooked in the whirlwind of nesting? The floors. Yes, floors. They may not be as sexy as statement wallpaper or a neon sign over your bed, but they’re literally the foundation of your entire vibe. Whether you’re dreaming of a dark romantic cave or a bright boho haven, your floors are what everything else is going to sit on. So let’s give them the love they deserve.

Think Practical Before Pretty

Before you fall in love with a sample, think about your lifestyle. Do you have pets or want them soon? Are you working from home? Are you planning a family soon?

For those just starting out, or on a budget, we recommend luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or laminate flooring. It’s budget-friendly, durable and can still bring in some seriously style.  They’re easy to clean, scratch-resistant, and perfect for high-traffic areas.

Match Your Floors to Your Aesthetic

Let’s be honest, you didn’t plan a cookie-cutter wedding. So why would your home look like a catalogue spread? Whether you’re going for moody maximalism or laid-back grunge, your floors can (and should) reflect you.

Gothic Glam

Dark, moody, and luxurious is the name of the game. Think rich walnut engineered wood, black oak solid wood. These tones work beautifully with antique gold accents, deep green velvet furniture, and heavy drapes. One couple I worked with painted their living room in a bold aubergine and paired it with a dark oak floor. It was utterly dramatic and deliciously romantic.

Emo Nostalgia

If you’re more punky then why not opt for weathered grey planks, distressed finishes, or even black-and-white vinyl tiles to create that underground gig feel. Pair with band posters, thrifted furniture, and plenty of fairy lights. The great thing about grey floors is they’re incredibly versatile and still keep a space feeling open and bright, even if you’re leaning into a darker palette.

Boho-Grunge Hybrid

Somewhere between art teacher and goth fairy? Try natural oak or rustic-effect laminate. These mid-tones pair well with everything from skull-printed cushions to macramé wall hangings. Add some indoor plants, vintage rugs, and layered textures, and you’ve got a vibe that feels soulful and lived-in.

Decor Is Temporary. Flooring Is (Almost) Forever

You’ll change cushions, light fixtures, and paint colors, but floors? That’s a longer-term love. Moving house (and getting married!) is expensive, so flooring needs to deliver on both price and longevity. That’s why I always say: don’t compromise on quality, even if you’re watching the pennies. Laminate flooring is an absolute lifesaver here. Today’s options are stunning with realistic wood looks, clever click-lock systems, and waterproof finishes – all without a big price tag. You can even DIY it with a bit of patience and a YouTube tutorial or two.

So, whether you’re creating a gothic sanctuary, a playful punk den, or something completely unique, choose flooring that sets the stage for all the chaos and connection to come. Start from the floor up. Everything else will fall into place.