So, your first holiday season together as a couple was pretty terrific. You got along great with his folks, bonded over hot chocolate and blew each other away with your gifts. When it comes to this relationship, all systems are a Go. But now you’re wondering if these feelings will last after the holidays. As your LA matchmaker, here’s our advice for keeping things going after the last verse of “Auld Lang Syne.”

First, don’t be disappointed if the momentum of the relationship slows slightly post-holidays. The holiday season tends to accelerate romances, so it’s only natural that things won’t move quite as fast as they did. Be patient, because, after all, relationships are marathons, not sprints.

Second, try to articulate in your mind what went so well between you two during the holiday season. It’s important to think about not just what was great but why it was great so you can replicate them. Was his gift really thoughtful? Think of ways you can express to him that you’re thinking of him even when he’s not around. Did you learn a lot about each other when you met his family during the holidays? Look for ways you can reveal even more to each other to deepen the bond. Did you both reveal some of the same goals for 2011? Maybe you can take a big leap and start working on those goals together.

A new and growing holiday romance is always exciting. To keep it going, look to the same sources of what make it that way during the holidays. Just keep in mind that the post-holiday pace won’t be as fast as it was during Christmastime.