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By Alyce Collins
Senior Reporter
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A married couple has revealed why sleeping in separate bedrooms is one of the best decisions they have made, and why it immediately made their relationship stronger.
While Kelsey, 39, and Chad Thompson, 54, have been together for several years, they decided to make it official and tie the knot in 2025. Throughout their relationship, Kelsey told Newsweek that sleep has “always been a priority,” and having both lived alone previously, they developed their own routines that they did not want to compromise on.
For them, it goes further than simply feeling rested.
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Kelsey and Chad, of Atlanta, Georgia, have both struggled with insomnia in the past and had to transform their habits to put wellness first. They were open about that from the beginning and, in order to maintain their quality of sleep, reached the mutual decision to have separate bedrooms.
“We each had established sleep routines and knew we slept best when we didn’t have to worry about disturbing someone else,” Kelsey said. “We never viewed separate bedrooms as a problem—it was simply the arrangement that gave us both the best night’s sleep. It was also rooted in understanding what we needed individually, which ultimately strengthened our relationship.”
From the beginning, it was a simple decision for the couple.
Kelsey, creator of Live Well Dress Well, explained that they were both so excited to create a setup that works for them, rather than adhering to the typical expectations of what a marriage looks like. For them, there is no set way to be married, and couples should not force themselves to keep doing something that “doesn’t help either person thrive.”
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They still spend their evenings together and relish each other’s company, they just part ways when they are ready for bed. The improvements were almost immediate, and it has helped so many facets of their life.
“We both sleep more deeply because neither of us is worried about waking the other. Better sleep has had a ripple effect on every part of our lives. We have more energy, are more patient with each other, and we both feel healthier overall,” Kelsey said.
“One of the biggest benefits is that we never resent each other because of sleep. If one of us wants to read, stay up later, wake up early, or isn’t feeling well, it doesn’t affect the other person. We also genuinely appreciate the time we spend together because it’s intentional.”
Indeed, the couple loved designing their own bedrooms and creating a space that reflected them individually. Kelsey’s bedroom contains a large bed, sofa and coffee table, a dual vanity area, and a chic bathroom design, all featuring warm neutral tones to give everything a cozy vibe. While Chad’s room has a more masculine aesthetic with a fireplace, bar area, a workout area and open closet in a mix of dark and cool tones.
Of course, this arrangement may not work for everyone, but it highlights the importance of prioritizing your own needs rather than societal norms.
Kelsey is very vocal about this part of her marriage, as she regularly discusses her experience online (@livewelldresswell on TikTok and @real.livewelldresswell on Instagram). She hopes that by showcasing this aspect of her life, other couples will feel validated and realize that there is no set rule for a marriage.
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Kelsey said: “Some people immediately assume our marriage must be in trouble, while others tell us they’ve secretly wanted to do the same thing for years but were afraid of what people would think. My husband and I have always believed that a healthy marriage is about understanding each other’s needs and finding what works for your relationship.
“Don’t let social expectations make decisions for your marriage. If you’re both exhausted because of snoring, different schedules, insomnia, or restless sleep, it’s worth having an honest conversation. Understanding your sleep needs as individuals is key."
Relationships are not centered on black and white rules. Whether it is sleeping together or separately, Kelsey urges people to do choose what works best for them and what makes them happiest.
After all, she jests that there is “no prize for being tired together.”
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Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Charlotte Nisbet and Emma Lee-Sang
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