Getting married is a major milestone in life. It's also a crazy roller coaster of planning and emotion. Many people get married when they are in their late 20s or 30s, but a few couples chose to get married young. I was expecting to live life to the fullest by being single and partying my way through my twenties. Little did I know that the girl I started dating at 18 would become my fiancee at 22 and the woman I will marry at 24. It's not easy trying to perform the juggling act of working multiple jobs, getting a degree, and planning a wedding, but if you do plan on getting married young here are 10 things to expect.
1. The engagement ring is a Big Deal.
Everyone will want to see the ring. Everyone will complement it regardless of whether they like it or not, just soak it in. Since you are a young couple, some people might ask where you got the money for the ring. Just smile.
2. The guest list
There will be multiple opinion's coming your way about who to invite to the wedding. You don't have to invite your mom's best friend's parent's cousin. While the opinions of family and friends can be helpful, make sure to stand your ground and invite who you want to share your special day with.
3. The dreaded question: "When is the date?"
Almost immediately after getting engaged people will start asking you when the wedding date is going to be. (My fiancee and I got this question just a few hours after she said yes. Yes, really). You won't even get a chance to breathe and it is a constant question until you finally settle on a date.
4. People asking if you are ready.
If you were not ready you would not be doing it, but people will think that because you are young that you have not thoroughly thought this through. Most of the people who ask this question are going to be much older.
5. Picking bridesmaids and groomsmen
This decision varies from couple to couple, some may have no problem picking who they want in their parties while others may struggle to decide who they want standing with them on their special day. If you have siblings your parents might ask if you are putting them in your party. You don't have to if you don't want to.
6. You are going to be poor.
Weddings cost tons and tons of money. You could fill a pool with all the money you'll spend on things like a cake, DJ, venue, etc. The most important thing to remember is that you don't want to start your life together in debt. Having a long engagement to save money or a small wedding are always options.
7. Picking where to have the wedding.
Picking the right venue will take some time. You have to factor in where everyone is coming from, what season you are getting married in, how many people will be attending, and most importantly where you want to get married. Some people might try to force their opinions on you because of your age, don't let them.
8. "Are you going to finish college?"
No, you are going to give up on college because you plan on getting married. Of course you are going to finish college, but this question will probably be asked at least once.
9. You will get cheaper gifts.
You're poor, your friends are poor, we're all poor. Your friends will get you something, but just remember to register for some cheaper items because, you know, we are all poor.
10. Some people will ask your age.
When you go to tour a venue or do a cake tasting someone will ask your age. They might be shocked or say something like, "You're so young," but just laugh it off and agree.
All in All:
Getting engaged at a young age and planning a wedding at a young age may be stressful at times, but it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. When you find the person who is right for you and you know that the two of you are meant to be together then get married young. Living life to the fullest is different for each person, for some it's marrying young. For me, marrying my best friend and partner in crime can't happen soon enough.
