How to Protect Your Marriage Before You Even Say "I Do"

When my husband and I got married it was a very small private event.  We told our families and few friends that we were going to the beach in a month to get married and it would be so fun if anyone who wanted to come could.  All told we had I believe 16ish people.  And we did just that.  We went to the beach and got married. *it wasn't without its flaws because it was an absolute chaotic adventure ON the actual wedding day, but I'll tell you about that later.  We started the day with our friends at the beach and then we went to our hotel and we got ready together and we walked down to meet our friends at the beach and here we are 5.5 married years later.  Why did I tell you this (half) wedding story?  Because I just learned that your marriage is better protected if you have a small wedding.  A vast majority of couples find they can't work together while planning a wedding and it becomes more and more toxic as the planning goes on.  Not all the time, I am sure there are lots of happy couples who had massive extravagant weddings.  The day is beautiful and we as girls dream of our weddings our entire lives. We have planned every single chiffon detail.  But do you know how expensive real life is?  The Knot, one of the best in the wedding biz, tells me that the average cost of a wedding in the United States is around $30,000. Your marriage is what is important.  The commitment between you and your partner.  That's what matters.  Having a big and grand and amazing wedding is an absolute dream and I hope that for you, but if you're thinking realistically about money, $30,000 could pay for at least a few Disney vacations, or a car, or a house or that boob job you've been wanting.  https://www.yourtango.com/love/couples-avoid-popular-event-have-happier-marriages