Willy,
What i can remember of Spring Festival travel, is that for those that could, started traveling upto a month beforehand. Because they knew full well the closer you get to the holiday, the more difficult it's going to be to travel anywhere in China. It's also going to be mad at the train stations for at least two weeks after the holiday as well.
The whole of China goes mad during this festival, the roads are packed (including the motorways), the trains are packed solid, and the internal flights are tripled and all booked!!! Try getting a booking at any half decent restaurant even...haha!!!
But hey!!, you'd be a fool to pass up the chance to experience it all!! ....haha!!
So enjoy your first Chinese New Year, and enjoy it, ...being married to your new Wife....
Happy Holiday to you both!!
David...