Longer Engagements

Some years ago, when I was writing Before You Say "I Do", I realized that longer engagements actually save couples money. Several reasons for this.

First, couples who have longer engagements tend to save more for the wedding and honeymoon. They don't go into debt so hastily.

Second, couples who have longer engagements tend to have a deeper appreciation for what it takes to strategize and build a life together. They discuss finances more deeply, and they arrive at a plan, and set goals for their future.

Finally, longer engagements allow couples to get to know each other more fully . . . and this leads to a much better start in marriage. Some couples might even discover that they are not right for each other, not as compatible as they should be, and by not getting married . . . they save more money (and heartache) than they can imagine!

Don't be hasty. Take your time. And do the hard work of talking about finances before you get married!