Marriage is an actual ceremony in the United States. It’s estimated that 1.68 million American couples get married each year. It is an important event that bonds couples together.
Marriage is a big step in anyone’s life. It’s a commitment not only to your partner but also to yourself. It’s a decision to be with someone for the rest of your life, through thick and thin.But, before you take that plunge, there are a few things you should prepare.
Finances
Marriage is not just a commitment of love but also a financial commitment. You and your spouse will share your finances, so you must be on the same page about your spending and saving habits. Here are some tips when it comes to your finances as a couple.
Start an Emergency Fund
Your emergency fund is a must. Set up a bank account to save money for unexpected expenses, such as emergency car repairs or medical bills. Without an emergency fund, you may be forced to take out loans or put significant purchases on credit just in case of emergencies. As a rule of thumb, saving around 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses in your emergency fund is good.
Create a Budget
A budget is essential to managing your finances as a couple. Consider creating a budget that works for both of you. For example, if your partner has a lot of debt, it’s essential to find a way to pay off this debt as quickly as possible. If you’re both on the same page about your financial priorities and habits, you’ll be more likely to stay out of debt and save money in the long run.
Career Goals
Your career goals may change after you get married. For example, you may decide to start a family and need to adjust your work schedule accordingly. Or, you may relocate to be closer to your spouse’s job. Therefore, it’s important to discuss your career aspirations with your partner and ensure you’re both on the same page. Here are some ways to plan your career goals.
Get a Counselor
Professional help can help you and your career goals. Consider working with a career counselor who can advise and help you prepare for the future. Career counselors can help you identify your strengths, find employment opportunities, and change careers if necessary.
Explore Different Careers
Exploring different options is essential before leaping if you need to make a significant career change. Take the time to research other careers and determine if they’re right for you. Talk to people who already work in that line of work or attend informational interviews with companies to get an idea of what it’s like to work in a particular industry.
Relationship with Your In-Laws
Your relationship with your in-laws can be one of the most challenging aspects of marriage. Establishing boundaries early on is essential as communicating openly about any concerns you have. Are there specific topics that are off-limits? What do you expect from your in-laws? Answering these questions can help prevent conflict down the line. Make sure to have communicated with your in-laws often and stay honest with your feelings.
Living Arrangements
Living arrangements are crucial for a happy marriage. Here are some things to consider when it comes to your living arrangements.
Buy or Rent
The first thing to consider is whether you want to buy a house or rent one. Homeownership can be a huge commitment, so you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of homeownership before making this critical decision.
Co-Habitation
If you choose to rent an apartment or condo together, ensure you are on the same page about what type of living space you want. Do you value privacy or want to live in a social, community-style setting? Also, keep in mind your budget for rent and other living expenses.
Determine Responsibilities
Who is responsible for household chores like cleaning, cooking, and taking out the trash? A conversation about this can help prevent future arguments.
Prepare For Marriage
Lastly, you need to prepare for the marriage itself. Here are some fundamental essentials you need to prepare.
Venue
It’s essential to have a venue in mind before planning anything else. Look for venues that fit your guest count and budget, as well as any other requirements you may have. For example, consider an affordable barn wedding venue if you want to save money. It’s a rustic setting that is perfect for an outdoor ceremony.
Menu and Catering
Once you’ve reserved the venue, you must decide on a menu and catering options. A caterer can help you create a custom menu based on your preferences and budget. Keep in mind that alcohol isn’t included when you’re planning a wedding on a budget. Instead, consider purchasing your alcohol to save money and host a BYOB (bring your own booze) party for your guests.
Marriage is a big decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Before taking the plunge, there are many things to consider, from finances and career goals to living arrangements and religious beliefs. By preparing for marriage, you can set yourself up for success in your relationship and your life together as husband and wife.
