Things to Do Before Getting Married

Getting engaged is just the beginning of an exciting journey — but before walking down the aisle, there’s a lot more to prepare than just the wedding itself. Marriage is both a celebration and a serious life transition, so here’s a planning-based guide to help couples organize everything that matters before saying “I do.”

📅 1. Set a Realistic Timeline

Start with your ideal wedding date and work backward. Consider time needed for:

• Booking venues

• Sending save-the-dates

• Securing vendors

• Travel arrangements for guests
  Aim for at least 9–12 months of planning time when possible.

📝 2. Create a Wedding Planning Checklist

Break it down month-by-month:

• Choose ceremony/reception venue

• Hire a planner (or assign planning tasks)

• Buy attire

• Book photographer, caterer, DJ/band

• Apply for a marriage license
  There are plenty of printable or app-based checklists to help.

💬 3. Discuss Your Life Plans Together

Marriage is more than the event — it’s a partnership. Sit down and talk through:

• Career goals

• Where you’ll live

• Kids and parenting styles

• Religion or spiritual expectations

• Future lifestyle (travel, home ownership, etc.)

💳 4. Financial Planning as a Couple

Before marriage, take time to:

• Review each other’s income, debt, and savings

• Decide how you’ll manage joint expenses

• Set financial goals (home, retirement, emergency fund)

• Talk taxes, insurance, and wills (yes, now!)

💡 5. Make Legal and Logistical Plans

Don’t forget the paperwork:

• Obtain your marriage license (check your state’s rules)

• Consider prenuptial agreements (especially for second marriages or businesses)

• Decide on name changes, insurance updates, and other legal documents

🏡 6. Talk About Living Arrangements

If you haven’t moved in together yet, now’s the time to plan:

• Will you move into one person’s current home?

• Rent or buy a new place?

• Combine furniture or redecorate together?

💬 7. Premarital Counseling or Marriage Prep Course

Whether through a faith organization, therapist, or workshop, premarital counseling helps couples:

• Improve communication

• Learn conflict resolution skills

• Align expectations for marriage

🎉 8. Plan Pre-Wedding Events

Depending on your culture or preferences, coordinate:

• Engagement party

• Bridal shower or bachelor/bachelorette events

• Rehearsal dinner
  Keep things joyful but within budget!

🧳 9. Plan the Honeymoon

Choose a destination together and decide on:

• Budget

• Timing (right after wedding or delayed)

• Required documents (passports, visas)

• Booking flights, hotels, and experiences

❤️ 10. Keep the Relationship at the Center

Planning a wedding is exciting but can be stressful. Prioritize regular date nights, open conversations, and checking in on how you’re both feeling during the process.

✅ Our Take:

Planning before marriage isn’t just about seating charts or honeymoon resorts — it’s about designing a shared life together. From logistics and money to dreams and daily life, the more you prepare together now, the stronger your marriage will be from day one.