💍 5 Conversations You Need to Have Before You Say "I Do

You're in love, you're engaged, and you're planning the wedding of your dreams—but before you walk down the aisle and say "I do," there are a few heart-to-heart conversations you absolutely need to have with your partner. These aren’t always romantic topics, but they are the glue that helps build a strong, lasting marriage.

Here are the 5 most important conversations to have before tying the knot:

1. 💸 Money & Spending Habits

Let’s face it: money can be one of the biggest stressors in a marriage. That’s why it's crucial to talk openly and honestly about your financial situation before you get married.

Topics to cover:

• Are you a spender or a saver?

• Do you have debt? Student loans? Credit card balances?

• Will you merge your accounts, keep them separate, or do a hybrid?

• What are your financial goals (buying a home, saving, investing)?

• How do you handle budgeting?

💡 Tip: Make a “money date” where you sit down with snacks and zero judgment, just the goal of understanding each other’s money mindset.

2. 🍼 Kids or No Kids?

You’d be surprised how many couples assume they’re on the same page—only to find out later they’re not. Whether you want zero, two, or a whole soccer team, this is a must-have conversation.

Ask each other:

• Do you want children? If so, how many?

• When would be the right time?

• What are your parenting values?

• How would we handle challenges like infertility or adoption?

Even if your answers change over time, having this conversation early creates a foundation of mutual understanding.

3. 🏡 Lifestyle & Long-Term Goals

Where do you see yourselves living in 5, 10, or 20 years? Are you a city lover while they dream of a quiet country life?

Discuss:

• Where do we want to live long-term?

• Are we open to relocating for work or family?

• What kind of lifestyle are we building together—travel, stability, career-driven, minimalist?

• What does “success” look like to each of us?

Being aligned on your long-term vision helps you grow together—not apart.

4. ✝️ Faith, Culture & Family Traditions

Your beliefs, backgrounds, and family traditions shape your daily life and values—so talk about how you’ll handle differences and celebrate your shared ones.

Important to cover:

• Do we have the same or different religious or spiritual beliefs?

• How involved will our families be in holidays, decisions, and traditions?

• How will we raise children when it comes to culture or faith?

Respecting each other’s roots is key to building a relationship that honors both of you.

5. 💬 Conflict & Communication Styles

Every couple fights—but how you fight (and make up) is what makes or breaks a marriage. Do you need space? Do you want to talk things out immediately? Do you shut down or explode?

Explore:

• How do we each handle stress and disagreements?

• What does “good communication” look like for us?

• Are we willing to do couples therapy if needed?

• What are our deal-breakers or triggers?

💡 Bonus Tip: Learning each other's love languages and communication styles now will pay off big time later.

💞 Final Thoughts: A Strong Marriage Starts with Real Talk

Love is magical, but a lasting marriage is built on honesty, teamwork, and mutual respect. These conversations might feel awkward or even challenging, but they're truly an act of love—and the best gift you can give your future marriage.

So grab a coffee, go on a long walk, or cozy up with your favorite drinks and start the conversations that will help you say “I do” with open hearts and eyes wide open.