Wife doesn't want the tank -- looking for convincing ideas

[Drzy]

Thanks all, lots of great replies! Many helpful, and many humorous.

I'm going to show her this thread and see what she thinks. I really like the idea of showing her more tanks at other homes. If she sees how nice some look in other homes, then she could see how it could look in ours.

And hey, Papijames, great to hear from you! I'm glad to hear the huma huma is doin' well... thanks for your help, the hot tub is doing well too. Considering what a beast that thing was to move, I'll make that trade again any day of the week. It was great to meet you!

[ErikH]

Start with a small SPS dominant tank and fill it with corals that pop. Put a mandarin in there.

BAM, sold.

[zcatzmeow]

Completely agree with the bright SPS and the mandarin!


What I would say is that at this point you will still take a loss selling the tank and equipment. Ask for her to give it a chance and then two of you agree to a set amount of time at the end of which you will re-evaluate the tank. It's fair, and it's a compromise. Marriage is compromise.

As the tank is being stocked and corals are being picked out, seek her advice and opinions. We females often have a knack for decorating, or creating an awesome flowerbed and this is underwater gardening.

I'm extremely picky about the tanks that are displayed in my home. To your wife this will seem like a new piece of furniture and in her mind you've just picked out the shiny black lacquer bed and velvet Elvis art. Respect her feelings about keeping a nice home and stay on top of your tank. Seek her opinions in coral colors, types, and placement.

Good luck! And if she wants to talk to any of us reef girls, see our tanks, or hear about the compliments we get whenever anyone walks in the house, send her our way