What to talk about before getting engaged ....

Planning and being around weddings is so much fun, but we can't forget about all the important factors and issues that go into being in a marriage. I really can't say, because I have yet to marry and experience marriage; some people tell me it is very difficult and takes constant work, while others tell me its the same as being in a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship. But how can that be? I think the latter aren't thinking about finances, kids, and all those other things you really need to talk to your significant other about before marriage is considered. Marriage is a very intimate, sacred thing that should be taken very seriously.

I found a list of questions that a couple should talk about before considering marriage.. yeah, its heavy stuff, but nonetheless important and eventually an issue that you will come upon at some point in your married life.

Family and Children

• Do you want children? If so, how many?
• Do you want to own any pets? If so, what kind?
• When our parents get older, how will we take care of them?
• If families live close by, how often will be seeing them?
• If our families live far away, how often will we go visit them?

Our Home

• Do we want to own a home or rent?
• Where do we want to raise a family?
• Where do we see yourself retiring?
• What type of home do we want to live in?
• How will we take care of the home and divide up the chores?

Jobs and Finances

• Are we both happy in our careers or do we have other future plans?
• What if one of us gets laid off, what will be our options?
• Is a wedding budget necessary/important to us and what are the expenses we should allocate for (new car, student loans, vacation, family)?
• How much have you been saving and how much do you hope to continue saving?
• What current bank and credit cards do you use and should we combine accounts?
  
  
  Hopefully both of you are on the same page about these questions, but it's ok if you're not! That's why it's a good idea to talk about it before getting married. As intimidating as these questions may be, remember that open and honest communication helps to build a solid foundation for a good marriage.