Pre-Marriage

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Before You Say “I Do”

Perhaps you've met The One, and you're already plotting the perfect wedding. But before you get preoccupied with picking out the flowers or saying “yes” to the dress, hit the pause button for a second. Consider this: While creating a memorable wedding day is incredibly exciting (and, let's face it, stressful!), creating the basis for a marriage that thrives after the ceremony's over and the party's packed up is even more crucial.

You can start now, before you take those vows. Perhaps meet with a marriage mentor who can guide you in setting the proper foundation for a marriage that stands the test of time and the gale-force strength of trials. Don't skip premarital counseling that can uncover all those unrealistic expectations and the messy baggage you both haul into your relationship – and provide wise words on how you can work through potential issues before they mushroom into major concerns.

Perhaps you're still waiting for Mr. or Miss Right, currently living with someone, recovering from a bad breakup, or gunshy about re-entering the dating world after a failed first marriage. Whether you're dating or waiting, you can make positive changes within yourself now that will set the stage for a successful  marriage later. Maybe it's adjusting your “list” of what's really desirable in a potential mate, setting sexual and emotional boundaries to safeguard your heart, or learning to dispell the many myths our culture perpetuates about sex, romance, and true love. No matter what the current state of your love life, the following articles can help.

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