Singaporebrides | Relationships

September 2023

10 Key Signs You’re Ready for Marriage

How do you know if you should take the next step? Here are 10 key signs you’re ready for marriage.

When you’ve been together for a while, and your partner makes you happier than you ever thought you could be, you might begin to wonder if you’re ready to take the next monumental step in your relationship. Marriage is a commitment that goes beyond just rainbows and butterflies; it involves partnership, shared goals, and commitment. How do you know if you’re ready to take the leap? Here are some key signs that that the two of you might be ready for marriage.

1. You Can Be Yourselves

You’ve come a long way from trying to make the best impression on your first dates, and you’ve cracked your nerdiest jokes, shared your political opinions, and waxed lyrical on the merits of your favourite K-Pop idol, and you love how you can relax and be yourself without judgement from your partner. You’re not afraid to discuss your deepest values and beliefs, and share your dreams.

2. Communication Is King

In any healthy marriage, communication is paramount. Sweeping issues under the rug, exploding instead of expressing your needs calmly, or shutting down instead of listening are all warning signals that your relationship isn’t ready for marriage. If you and your partner can openly and honestly discuss your feelings, needs, and concerns, you’re laying a solid foundation for a lasting marriage.

3. You’ve Weathered Some Storms

Life isn’t always a walk in the park, and seeing how your partner reacts to challenges and uncertainty can show you a lot about their character. You’ll see if you can work together to solve problems, and support each other through difficult times. If you’ve faced challenges together and come out stronger on the other side, it’s a sign that you’re ready to team up for life.

Rebecca and Abloy’s Destination Pre-Wedding Shoot in Switzerland with Breathtaking Scenery and Powdery White Snow by Wanderlust Dream

4. You Have Shared Values and Goals

When you get married, you’re joining your lives, so it’s crucial to have shared values and mutual life goals. Whether it’s your stance on family, finances, or faith, alignment in these areas is essential. Make sure you’ve had deep discussions about what you value in life, what kind of life you envision for your future, and how you hope to achieve your goals. Share your dreams, whether it’s to move to another country or start a business, and see if you are willing to support each other in those life goals.

5. You’re on the Same Page about Family

You’ve talked about whether or not you want to start a family, and you’re on the same page for when you want to have kids. Having children is a huge decision, and you shouldn’t make any assumptions when it comes to whether your partner wants to have kids, when they want to have kids, and how many kids they want.

6. You’re Financially Savvy

Money matters can be a significant source of stress in a marriage. If you and your partner are comfortable discussing money openly, have a similar mindset towards money, and are on the same page about financial goals, you’re ahead of the game.

7. You Give Each Other Personal Space

While spending time together is vital, so is your ability to enjoy time apart. Healthy couples respect each other’s need for independence, individual interests, and friendships outside of your relationship.

Eunice and Daniel’s Intimate Pre-Wedding Shoot in the Romantic and Magical Wilderness by Hey Stranger

8. You’ve Met Each Other’s Families

Meeting and getting to know each other’s families can provide insight into your partner’s background and upbringing, which can be important for understanding each other better. You’re comfortable meeting with your partner’s family, and you can see your partner being a part of your own.

9. People Important to You Approve

Your partner has met the people closest to you, and they’ve passed muster. If the people who know you best can see that you bring out the best in each other, and that you are better together, then their approval can be a great sign you’re ready to commit.

10. You Just Know

Sometimes, you can’t put your finger on it, but you have a gut feeling that this person is “the one.” When you picture your future, they’re always in it. They make you happier than you’ve ever felt. You just know you’re meant to marry this person.

Remember that everyone’s journey to readiness for marriage is unique. While it’s normal for some couples to wait for the right time to get married–perhaps once both partners have stable jobs, or after completing a postgraduate degree–knowing when you’re ready to get married is not about adhering to a specific timeline, but rather about being in a place where you both feel secure, happy, and excited about the prospect of spending the rest of your lives together. If you find that most of these signs resonate with your relationship, you might just be ready to say “I do” and embark on a beautiful journey of love and partnership.


Feature image from Tabitha and Sean’s White Wedding at Raffles Hotel Singapore and Min Jiang at Dempsey by Smittenpixels Photography

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10 Key Signs You’re Ready for Marriage