ARE you planning to take your relationship to the next level by saying ‘I do’?
While planning for a wedding is certainly exciting, it’s even more important to lay a strong foundation for a good marriage.
Before you start delving into venues, caterers and overall wedding madness, you should discuss your expectations with each other.
Even if you have been in a relationship for quite some time, being married is a lot different.
Instead of spending your initial years of marriage in explosive disagreements, make sure you and your partner are on the same page about things that matter.
In this post, we’re sharing certain conversations you should have before getting married. Take a look.
Children
Just like money, children are another topic many couples fail to discuss before marriage.
Rather than assuming your partner wants the same things as you, make sure you share your views about having children.
In addition to deciding whether you want or don’t want to have children, you should also discuss how you want to raise them.
Changing your name
If you’re planning on having kids, will they take your or your partner’s last name?
These kinds of conversations shouldn’t be avoided.
While traditionally, women take up their husbands’ names, things have considerably changed over the years.
There are so many other ways to change your name.
You can keep your maiden name, choose a completely different last name, or combine and take each other’s last names.
Spending habits
Money is probably the most common topic of contention in couples.
That’s why it’s crucial to discuss finances before making things official.
First of all, you should be aware of each other’s spending habits.
Does your partner prefer a lavish lifestyle while you have conservative spending habits?
Discuss your future lifestyle together and come to a compromise.
Another concern is splitting your living expenses and other bills.
These days, many modern couples agree to divide bills equitably rather than equally according to their incomes.
This is a fair and reasonable plan for couples with significant income disparities.
Debt
If you and your soon-to-be spouse went to college, then you probably have student loans to repay.
Apart from this, you may also have to take care of other debts.
Paying debt as soon as possible is crucial to building a secure financial future.
You should openly discuss your outstanding loans and devise a repayment plan together.
Bank account
Will you create a joint account or keep your finances separate?
Having a joint account for shared expenses makes payments convenient.
On the other hand, you should also keep a personal account to retain financial autonomy.
Living arrangements
It’s a good idea to live with your partner before tying the knot.
You may have sizzling chemistry, but domestic compatibility is essential for a lasting marriage.
We suggest spending at least two weeks living together and clearly communicate any deal breakers.
Even something as simple as the firmness of the mattress should be discussed.
Religion
Is religion a big part of your or your partner’s life?
Do you want them to share your faith?
Do you envisage yourself raising kids with your religious values?
Your partner’s religious beliefs and values may not seem like a big deal right now, but they might impact your future as a married couple.
Location
You must decide where to put your down roots, especially if you work in different cities.
Will you or your partner move to the other person’s city?
Do you want to stay closer to your friends and family?
Do you want to explore a completely different place?
You both should come to an agreement about the place you want to call home.
This is a submitted article.
