Divorce rates in America are high, and often people do not think about divorce until they are already married. When couples prepare for married life before their wedding day, however, they have a better chance of having a successful marriage.
There are many things to consider when preparing for married life. Below are some important aspects to think about.
Finances
One of the most important things to discuss is financial planning. It is important to have an open discussion about finances and what each person expects from the marriage financially. This includes discussing debts, assets, and budgeting plans.
Decisions about money can be a major source of conflict in a marriage, so it is important to come to an agreement before you get married.
Children
Another important topic to discuss is children. Couples should discuss how many children they would like to have, as well as when they would like to have them. It is also important to discuss what kind of parenting style each person plans to use.
Expectations
Finally, it is important for couples to discuss their expectations for the marriage. This includes discussing topics such as religion, household chores, and any other expectations they have for their marriage. It will help prevent conflicts in the future.
Engagement
The wedding proposal and engagement are an important part of preparing for married life. Many people dream about how they will be proposed to and what their ring will look like. It is important for men to take time when proposing so that the woman feels special and loved when he proposes to her. Whether it’s a gorgeous braided diamond engagement ring or a simple golden ring, this piece of jewelry should be present in this memorable event.
Wedding
The wedding is your ticket to married life. It is also the day that many girls dreamed of since childhood. A wedding includes not only the bridal gown but also attendant dresses for bridesmaids and flower girls. Bridesmaids are usually sisters or close friends to the bride. They help with bouquets, train on dresses, carry flowers, etc. The groom usually has the best man to serve as his right hand. They also help in many aspects of the wedding.
The ceremony usually takes place at a church or another religious worship center, but could also be held outdoors in a garden or park. Immediately after the ceremony is when photos are taken.
Honeymoon
The honeymoon is the trip that the couple takes after the wedding. It is a time to relax and enjoy each other’s company without any distractions. It is usually a romantic trip, often to a place where the couple has never been before.
Residence
Couples should discuss where they want to live after marriage. Some couples prefer to live together before getting married, while others may not want to cohabitate at all. It is important that both parties are satisfied with the living arrangement.
Source of Income
Couples should also discuss who will be the primary breadwinner in the family. This can be a difficult conversation, but it is important to have an open dialogue about each person’s career goals and plans.
Savings
Couples should also start saving for the future. This includes saving for things such as a down payment on a home, retirement, and children’s college funds. It is important to have a plan in place so that both parties are aware of what needs to be saved.
Religion
It is important for couples to discuss their religious beliefs before marrying. Not only does this make for a more peaceful relationship, but there may be legal benefits depending on the couple’s religion. For example, both parties should know if either of them is allowed to remarry in the case that their marriage ends. Additionally, couples should find out what each person expects from the other regarding religious practices.
Physical, Mental, and Emotional Well-Being
Couples should also discuss their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This includes discussing any disabilities or illnesses they may have as well as medications they are currently on. It is important to share this information so that both parties can be supportive of one another.
Health Insurance
It is also important for couples to find out what kind of health insurance each party currently has. This information is important for determining who will continue to pay for the health insurance as well as whether they should keep their own individual policy if they were already on one prior to marriage.
Legal Issues
Couples should also discuss any legal issues that may arise after getting married. For example, if one person has children from a previous relationship, the couple should decide what kind of custody and visitation arrangement they would like to have. Additionally, couples should discuss things such as estate planning and prenuptial agreements.
These are just a few aspects of married life that couples should discuss before getting married. By having open conversations about these topics, couples can avoid any potential conflict down the road.
