What should be expected and prepared for in the first year of marriage?

Expect a period of adjustment: daily habits, money, in-laws and intimacy are all new; small quarrels are normal and not a sign the marriage is failing.
Allah made spouses so that we find tranquillity, and placed affection and mercy between them (ar-Rum 30:21) — that tranquillity is built, not instant. Preparation: agree a budget and who pays for what before the first pay day after the wedding; discuss how often you will visit each other's families; learn how your spouse expresses anger and love; set a routine of praying together; and do not take every disagreement to your parents. Be forgiving of small mistakes, and ask your spouse regularly, "what can I do better?" If there is a serious issue such as violence or deception, do not stay silent because you are "newly married". See Emotional communication.