Relationship advice

Get relationship advice from the experts. Maybe you've been dating for a while and need guidance on how to talk about the next steps. Or you're newly engaged and need advice on how to handle wedding planning stress. You'll also find advice for newlywed couples, like how to combine finances. Plus guides to celebrating anniversaries and renewing your vows! Whatever stage of the journey you're in, we're here to support you through it all.

All Dating Newly engaged couples Newlywed couples Anniversaries

Mixed race bride and groom looking at each other lovingly on their big day

20 Best Marriage Advice Tips from Experts and Old CouplesWe spoke with a marriage therapist and couples about their best marriage advice for engaged couples, newlyweds, and couples celebrating another year of marriage.

Dating

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170 Unique Love Quotes for Him

Newlywed Advice

Let him know exactly how much he means to you with these love quotes for him. From short and sweet to unique to famous, find something that fits your love perfectly.

Top Places Couples Actually Meet Each Other

Top Places Couples Actually Met Each Other

List

Here’s a look into where our 2023 couples’ love stories started.

How to Talk About Marriage When Dating

How To

Want to find out where your partner stands on marriage, but not sure how to broach the subject? Read on to find how and when to talk about marriage when dating.

30 Romantic and Affordable Date Night Ideas

List

Dating doesn’t need to be expensive, and our list of date ideas that don't break the bank will reassure you of that.

How Do You Know You’ve Found “The One“?

Advice

Finding the person you spend forever with is no easy task. There are signs to look out for to know if someone is your soulmate. Learn more here.

Valentine’s Day Gift and Date Ideas Based on Your Love Language

List

Whether you’re engaged, married, or just want to show someone how much you love them in their language, here are some ideas to try this Valentine's Day.

Newly engaged couples

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What is Engagement Anxiety?

Advice

Do you feel like you’re developing engagement anxiety? Learn about the signs and how to treat it with this complete guide.

couple with partner and parents who don't get along

5 Reasons Your Parents and Fiancé Don't Get Along—and How to Deal

Inspiration

There are many common reasons your parents many not like your fiancé. Licensed therapists share what to do and how to talk about it when your parents and partner don't get along.

engaged couple's families meet for the first time

How To Introduce Your Families Post-Engagement

How To

Not every couple's families have the opportunity to meet before the engagement. Here's how to gracefully introduce your families post-engagement.

How to Combine Your Things and Move In Together

How-To

Moving in with your SO? Here's how to combine your things and move in together—free of fighting, stress, or giving up your favorite stuff.

Newlyweds Holding Hands changing name surname

What No One Tells You About Changing Your Name

Inspiration

Planning a wedding leads to a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, you’re filled with excitement, about to marry the love of your life surrounded by your friends and family. On the other hand, you’ve never been so stressed trying to balance finding invitations with cake tastings, dress fittings and a million other details.

8 Top Advice for Engaged Couples Before Tying the Knot

Advice

Getting ready to walk down the aisle? Review this top advice for engaged couples before saying your “I dos!” Read on now.

Anniversaries

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35 Unique 35th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas

Inspiration

Check out our latest blog to discover our top 35th wedding anniversary ideas. Read our blog for more.

Simple Vow Renewal Ideas

Inspiration

Looking for simple vow renewal ideas? Discover top tips and recommendations from the pros at Zola today.

110 Happy Anniversary Quotes to Express Your Love

Newlywed Advice

Want to wish someone a happy anniversary but unsure of how to put it into words? These anniversary quotes offer plenty of ideas to get you started.

20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas

Inspiration

Check out our latest blog for fun and creative 20th-anniversary ideas! Read our blog for more inspiration.

How to Do a Vow Renewal on a Budget

How-To

Looking to plan a vow renewal on a budget? Find out how with this helpful guide.

Funny Renewal Wedding Vows

How-To

Looking to get your guests laughing at your wedding renewal? Discover our top suggestions for funny renewal wedding vows here.

Find even more wedding ideas, inspo, tips, and tricks

We’ve got wedding planning advice on everything from save the dates to wedding cakes.

\n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n ","slug":"relationship-advice","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice","description":"Get relationship advice from the experts. Maybe you've been dating for a while and need guidance on how to talk about the next steps. Or you're newly engaged and need advice on how to handle wedding planning stress. You'll also find advice for newlywed couples, like how to combine finances. Plus guides to celebrating anniversaries and renewing your vows! Whatever stage of the journey you're in, we're here to support you through it all.","subtopics":[{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Dating","slug":"dating"},"slug":"love-quotes-for-him","title":"170 Unique Love Quotes for Him","excerpt":"Let him know exactly how much he means to you with these love quotes for him. From short and sweet to unique to famous, find something that fits your love perfectly.","author":"Allison Cullman","publishedAt":"2024-04-10T11:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/156is80gpDq82LiAfFIgZc/b8f49e1ff9b8486f84d7a6f8012270ee/love-quotes-for-him.jpg","altText":"male-couple-snuggling-on-couch"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","tldr":"__Inside this article:__\n\n- I love you quotes for him\n- Short love quotes for him\n- Love quotes for him from the heart\n- Cute love quotes for him\n- Deep love quotes for him\n- Funny love quotes for him\n- Famous love quotes for him\n- Romantic love quotes for him\n","body":"Finding the right words to express your love to the man in your life isn’t always easy, but there are countless romantic love quotes out there to help spark inspiration. If you’re a [hopeless romantic](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-is-a-hopeless-romantic), you may not have any trouble thinking of a few favorite quotes. However, even if you can’t think of a single quote, our list will help you creatively convey your love now that [you’ve found the one](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-do-you-know-youve-found-the-one).\n\nWhether you’re looking for quotes for a special occasion like your wedding anniversary or [Christmas](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/christmas-gifts-boyfriend) or simply because you want to brighten your [date night](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/30-romantic-affordable-date-night-ideas), we’ve gathered our favorite love quotes for him to help you find the perfect words to express your love. While these quotes are meant for people with he/him pronouns, most can apply to any type of [romantic relationship](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/relationship-advice)!\n\n## I love you quotes for him \n\n### 1. Robert Heinlein\n“Love is the condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-heinlein](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7deW4r9gXfomCqfYhUCesH/7b0023ce751b9fd692345569b6a71e15/love-quotes-for-him-heinlein.png)\n\n### 2. Jane Austen, “Pride and Prejudice”\n“In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.\" \n\n### 3. Pablo Neruda, “Sonnet XVII”\n“I love you because I know no other way to love you than this: where \"I\" does not exist, nor \"you,\" so close that your hand upon my chest is my hand, so close that your eyes close as I fall asleep.”\n\n### 4. F. Scott Fitzgerald\n\"All life is just a progression toward, and then a recession from, one phrase—‘I love you.’\" \n\n### 5. Pablo Neruda, “100 Love Sonnets”\n“I love you as certain dark things are loved, secretly, between the shadow and the soul.” \n\n### 6. Angelita Lim\n“I saw that you were perfect, and so I loved you. Then I saw that you were not perfect and I loved you even more.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-lim](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5c4gk5hmee7ybBEE8n7Orr/06d42c51bc5e592e106aea7b24c1362d/love-quotes-for-him-lim.png)\n\n### 7. Elizabeth Barrett Browning\n“I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. I love you not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me. I love you for the part of me that you bring out.” \n\n### 8. Unknown\n“When I say I love you more, I don’t mean I love you more than you love me. I mean I love you more than the bad days ahead of us, I love you more than any fight we will ever have. I love you more than the distance between us, I love you more than any obstacle that could try and come between us. I love you the most.” \n\n### 9. Truth Devour, Unrequited \n”Loving you never was an option. It was a necessity.” \n\n### 10. Ben Folds, “The Luckiest”\n“I love you more than I have ever found a way to say to you.” \n\n### 11. Elvis Presley, “Can’t Help Falling in Love”\n“Take my hand, take my whole life too. For I can’t help falling in love with you.”\n\n### 12. Zelda Fitzgerald\n “I’ve tried so many times to think of a new way to say it, and it’s still I love you.”\n\n ![love-quotes-for-him-fitzgerald-01](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4v2VRwPDrSX2HuRYEGe0t4/5a964288e15cca1e9f12e04b715715db/love-quotes-for-him-fitzgerald-01.png)\n\n### 13. Song of Solomon 3:4\n“I have found the one whom my soul loves.”\n\n### 14. Nicholas Sparks, “The Notebook”\n“You are, and always have been, my dream.”\n\n### 15. Arrigo Boito\n”When I saw you I fell in love, and you smiled because you knew.”\n\n### 16. Jerry Maguire, “Jerry Maguire”\n“I love you. You complete me.”\n\n### 17. Charles de Leusse\n“‘I love you’ begins by I, but it ends up by you.” \n\n### 18. Paulo Coelho, “The Alchemist” \n“I love you because the entire universe conspired to help me find you.”\n\n### 19. Dorothy L. Sayers, “Busman's Honeymoon”\n“I love you—I am at rest with you—I have come home.”\n\n### 20. Leo Christopher\n“I swear I couldn’t love you more than I do right now, and yet I know I will tomorrow.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-christopher](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3040oOEg0HGrJXomt8IPQk/aa63dbd0d6e28ffc65ca3e579bb1fa52/love-quotes-for-him-christopher.png)\n\n### 21. The Princess Bride\n“Do I love you? My god, if your love were a grain of sand, mine would be a universe of beaches.”\n\n### 22. Rosemonde Gérard\n“Each day I love you more, today more than yesterday and less than tomorrow.”\n\n## Short love quotes for him \n\n### 23. Dr. Suess\n\"You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.\" \n\n### 24. ABBA, “Super Trouper”\n\"But I won't feel blue, 'cause somewhere in the crowd there's you.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-abba](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/45G2pYDlUjxuSegYtqkWoV/99ec3ee73389d11e01979f53e4b7532a/love-quotes-for-him-abba.png)\n\n### 25. Sigmund Freud\n“One is very crazy when in love.” \n\n### 26. Aristotle\n“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.”\n\n### 27. Sanober Khan\n“Your hand touching mine. This is how galaxies collide.” \n\n### 28. Robert James Waller, “The Bridges of Madison County”\n“It seems right now that all I've ever done in my life is making my way here to you.\" \n\n### 29. Elaine Davis\n“Loved you yesterday, love you still, always have, always will.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-davis](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6x6IxaZ7hsIAQpsK8C1sNG/376920fabd8b7ea2f2d10a294545ec4f/love-quotes-for-him-davis.png)\n\n### 30. Unknown\n“Thinking of you keeps me awake. Dreaming of you keeps me asleep. Being with you keeps me alive.” \n\n### 31. Charles Dickens\n\"I wish you to know that you have been the last dream of my soul.\" \n\n### 32. Hermann Hesse\n\"If I know what love is, it is because of you.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-davis](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4zBraqRAJrRiKGAsn4sGk0/ecdce529dc746b86c5069dbd22ebfeb5/love-quotes-for-him-hesse.png)\n\n### 33. William Shakespeare, “Shakespeare in Love”\n\"You will never age for me, nor fade, nor die.\" \n\n### 34. Unknown\n“You can’t rush something you want to last forever.” \n\n### 35. Taylor Swift, “Mine”\n\"You are the best thing that’s ever been mine.\" \n\n### 36. Unknown\n“My six-word love story: I can’t imagine life without you.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-01 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1IRqPmxs0e4Fj0oaFmbM3s/4ad0cd318f35ba663f9680fc6fe27639/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-01__1_.png)\n\n### 37. Unknown\n“Everywhere I look I am reminded of your love. You are my world.”\n\n### 38. Unknown\n“All that you are is all that I’ll ever need.”\n\n### 39. Noah Calhoun, “The Notebook”\n\"I want all of you, forever, you and me, every day.\" \n\n### 40. Unknown\n“I need you like a heart needs a beat.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-02](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/01NvIc98ZQfVC2D2JsTKMd/ccae294c3a03b3255d82cfb89ab6e8d0/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-02.png)\n\n## Love quotes for him from the heart \n\n### 41. Friedrich Nietzsche\n“Who could see your smiling and not melt into tears? The angels themselves melt into tears at the over-graciousness of your smiling.” \n\n### 42. Robert Frost\n\"We love the things we love for what they are.\"\n\n### 43. Madeline Miller, “The Song of Achilles”\n“I could recognize him by touch alone, by smell; I would know him blind, by the way his breaths came and his feet struck the earth. I would know him in death, at the end of the world.” \n\n### 44. Paulo Coelho, “The Alchemist”\n\"It's not love to be static like the desert, nor is it love to roam the world like the wind. And it's not love to see everything from a distance. Love is the force that transforms and improves the soul of the world...when we love, we always strive to become better than we are.\" \n\n### 45. Larry Fleinhardt, “Numb3rs”\n\"What binds humans? Love. Powerful in small spaces, yet with profound effect on distance. Love defies time, outliving both its source and its object. Love is faster than light, for light requires time in order to travel through space, but love reaches its object instantaneously. Love journeys forever, into infinity.\" \n\n### 46. William Blake\n“Love seeketh not itself to please, nor for itself hath any care, but for another gives its ease, and builds a heaven in hell's despair.” \n\n### 47. Honoré de Balzac\n“A woman knows the face of the man she loves as a sailor knows the open sea.” \n\n### 48. Oscar Wilde\n“You don't love someone for their looks, or their clothes, or for their fancy car, but because they sing a song only you can hear.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-03](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2DOXHlvOd3fTJoVYQbOcYQ/1b30fa66c48b982294e5b9ae5f1b28ae/love-quotes-for-him-wilde.png)\n\n### 49. Kiersten White, “The Chaos of Stars”\n“And I’d choose you; in a hundred lifetimes, in a hundred worlds, in any version of reality, I’d find you and I’d choose you.” \n\n### 50. Iain Thomas, “I Wrote This For You”\n“That’s what it feels like when you touch me. Like millions of tiny universes being born and then dying in the space between your finger and my skin. Sometimes I forget.” \n\n### 51. Dante\n“In that book which is my memory. On the first page of the chapter that is the day that I first met you read the words: 'Here begins a new life.’” \n\n### 52. John Keats\n\"The air I breathe in a room empty of you is unhealthy.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-keats](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4DEMX2ArjX44DhKktqSHaN/c7f743d44ce0b8ea330f6cf7bbb15d45/love-quotes-for-him-keats.png)\n\n### 53. John Green, “The Fault in Our Stars”\n“As he read, I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, and then all at once.” \n\n### 54. Unknown\n“His love roared louder than her demons.” \n\n### 55. Unknown\n\"I look at you and see the rest of my life in front of my eyes.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-04](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/LnbzXLA6RAsdtXgZBayHw/dec482b629c9e2c206db760c4ee35d2d/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-04.png)\n\n### 56. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle\n\"You are my heart, my life, my one and only thought.\" \n\n### 57. Rumi, “Quotes & Poems on Life, Love & Death”\n\"If you find me not within you, you will never find me. For I have been with you, from the beginning of me.\" \n\n### 58. Jane Austen, “Sense and Sensibility” \n“My heart is and always will be yours.”\n\n### 59. Tiana, “The Princess and the Frog”\n“My dream wouldn’t be complete without you in it.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-tiana](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/18Cg0wNRekBITNsbdNfXJ9/ae930ad378ebe71beb79545818517c0b/love-quotes-for-him-tiana.png)\n\n### 60. Julie Kagawa\n“You are my heart, my life, my entire existence.” \n\n### 61. Judy Garland\n“For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul.”\nCute Love Quotes for Him\n\n## Cute love quotes for him \n\n### 62. Robert Fulghum, “True Love”\n\"We’re all a little weird. And life is a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutually satisfying weirdness—and call it love—true love.\" \n\n### 63. Homer Simpson, \"The Simpsons\"\n“I've got a problem. Once you stop this car, I'm going to hug you, and kiss you, and then I'll never be able to let you go.”\n\n### 64. F. Scott Fitzgerald\n“It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but like morning light it scattered the night and made the day worth living.” \n\n### 65. Unknown\n“You’re my favorite notification.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-tiana](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6atz7XVycR89tIrd85FIUO/2c18b3d92e2303cff8124c2eca54287f/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-05.png)\n\n### 66. J.R.R. Tolkien, “The Lord of the Rings”\n“I would rather spend one lifetime with you, than face all the ages of this world alone.” \n\n### 67. Albert Einstein\n“Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love.” \n\n### 68. Lisa Hoffman\n“Love is like pi—natural, irrational, and very important.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-hoffman](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1n0HVOazo3JY20PzQLDCbV/005c5a7647d90c444a966df5fe08d64a/love-quotes-for-him-hoffman.png)\n### 69. Thomas Dewar\n“Love is an ocean of emotions entirely surrounded by expenses.” \n\n### 70. Elizabeth Evans\n“I love you more than coffee, but please don’t make me prove it.” \n\n### 71. A. A. Milne, “Winnie the Pooh” \n“If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-milne](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6ZZVI42rVqvtOz8F6iyFcG/9aa0bcb75f16435d7f696ccdb58d4b1b/love-quotes-for-him-milne.png)\n\n### 72. Alfred Tennyson\n\"If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk through my garden forever.\" \n\n### 73. Vladimir Nabokov\n\"It was love at first sight, at last sight, at ever and ever sight.\" \n\n### 74. Paulo Coelho, “The Alchemist”\n\"One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving.\" \n\n### 75. Jack Johnson, “Better Together”\n“It’s always better when we’re together.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-johnson](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7nS0GvllPq1m1cyR8uunwZ/9de679080fc6ddac7eec8256825f4565/love-quotes-for-him-johnson.png)\n\n### 76. Adele, “Make You Feel My Love”\n\"There’s nothing that I wouldn’t do to make you feel my love.\" \n\n### 77. Mark Darcy, “Bridget Jones’s Diary”\n\"I like you very much. Just as you are.\" \n\n### 78. A.R. Asher\n\"You are my blue crayon, the one I never have enough of, the one I use to color my sky.”\n\n### 79. Unknown\n“One day, I caught myself smiling without no reason, then I realized I was thinking of you.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-06 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1uGxdDCNZdPZi4fGnTqMLl/1767798c115eb1f75e178a3a85f38775/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-06__1_.png)\n\n### 80. Alicia Keys, “If I Ain’t Got You”\n“Everything means nothing if I ain't got you.”\n\n### 81. Joseph Campbell\n\"Love is a friendship set to music.\"\n\n### 82. Unknown\n “I love you every waking moment of my life; I am over the moon to be your wife.”\n\n### 83. George Burns\n“Love is a lot like a backache. It doesn’t show up on X-rays, but you know it’s there.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-burns (2)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4TC5ajlq34KfBzDJl5cz5z/d31843bc3e228d893dc626c27c5bb92a/love-quotes-for-him-burns__2_.png)\n### 84. Valerie Lombardo\n“To be your friend was all I ever wanted; to be your lover was all I ever dreamed.” \n\n## Deep love quotes for him \n\n### 85. Victor Hugo\n\"Love is a portion of the soul itself, and it is of the same nature as the celestial breathing of the atmosphere of paradise.\" \n\n### 86. Roger de Rabutin\n“Absence is to love what wind is to fire; it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-rabutin](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6SiZWNgxfKgZXvY8zAwRQ/08b039e808df082d0d1fddbf92241f08/love-quotes-for-him-rabutin.png)\n\n### 87. Friedrich Nietzsche\n“There is always some madness in love. But there is also always some reason in madness.” \n\n### 88. Rabbi Julius Gordon\n\"Love is not blind; it sees more, not less. But because it sees more, it's willing to see less.\" \n\n### 89. Unknown\n\"If one day the moon calls you by your name don't be surprised, because every night I tell her about you.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-07](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2NF9wcBITTO99zxQRX4qTF/a2fda122eedc0c044080f21c1688f085/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-07.png)\n\n### 90. William Shakespeare, “Sonnet 116”\n\"Love is not love which alters when it alteration finds, or bends with the remover to remove: O no! It is an ever-fixed mark, that looks on tempests and is never shaken.”\n\n### 91. Patrick Rothfuss, “The Wise Man's Fear”\n“Anyone can love a thing because. That's as easy as putting a penny in your pocket. But to love something despite. To know the flaws and love them too. That is rare and pure and perfect.” \n\n### 92. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry\n\"Love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.\"\n\n### 93. Yukio Mishima\n\"When we fall in love we are filled with the sense of how defenseless human beings are, and we tremble at the daily existence we have led in blissful obliviousness until this time. For this reason people are occasionally made virtuous by love.\" \n\n### 94. Lao Tzu\n“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-tzu](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7LSi3n5aPeWg3868NNop2l/e644241592b3b14326bfe7ac67ffca8e/love-quotes-for-him-tzu.png)\n\n### 95. Paulo Coelho, “The Alchemist”\n“And when two such people encounter each other, and their eyes meet, the past and the future become unimportant. There is only that moment, and the incredible certainty that everything under the sun has been written by one hand only. It is the hand that evokes love, and creates a twin soul for every person in the world. Without such love, one's dreams would have no meaning.” \n\n### 96. Jane Eyre\n\"I have a strange feeling with regard to you. As if I had a string somewhere under my left ribs, tightly knotted to a similar string in you. And if you were to leave I'm afraid that cord of communion would snap. And I have a notion that I'd take to bleeding inwardly.\" \n\n### 97. Mark Twain\n\"I am grateful that you were born, that your love is mine, and our two lives are woven and welded together.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-twain](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1E17McXcTLmyoPsVwdDoyN/03479035eb83efedd17bf217e660c134/love-quotes-for-him-twain.png)\n\n### 98. Tina Turner, “The Best”\n“In your heart, I see the start of every night and every day. In your eyes I get lost, I get washed away.”\n\n### 99. Alicia N. Green\n“Every day I discover that I love you even more, and in this infinite universe I will love you till the world ends.” \n\n### 100. Unknown\n“Who makes me feel more home than my house? My spouse.”\n\n### 101. Unknown\n“I don't always give my love away, but when I do, I give it only to you.”\n\n### 102. Unknown\n“In this crazy world, full of change and chaos, there is one thing of which I am certain, one thing which does not change: my love for you.” \n\n### 103. F. Scott Fitzgerald\n“I love you and that’s the beginning and end of everything.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-fitzgerald-02](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VOWPBfasN9oYxd2rQGqvJ/ca399d5a52781b37f3227d0a125b0b05/love-quotes-for-him-fitzgerald-02.png)\n\n### 104. Bill Wilson\n“To the world you may be one person, but to one person you are the world.”\n\n### 105. Maya Angelou\n\"In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine.\"\n\n## Funny love quotes for him \n\n### 106. Matt Groening\n“Love is a snowmobile racing across the tundra and then suddenly it flips over, pinning you underneath. At night, the ice weasels come.” \n\n### 107. Unknown\n\"Love is like a fart. If you have to force it, it's probably shit.\" \n\n### 108. Nikita Gill\n“You fell in love with a storm. Did you really think you would get out unscathed?”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-gill](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/62Tr3p8pcRddUSVPNGYTUL/9327b3963891d5374bde2f23b1a4e5dd/love-quotes-for-him-gill.png)\n\n### 109. Dora J. Arod, “Love Quotes for the Ages. And the Ageless Sages.”\n“My love is meatloaf flavored. I just wish my meatloaf was also meatloaf flavored.” \n\n### 110. Radiohead, “True Love Waits”\n\"I'll drown my beliefs to have your babies.\" \n\n### 111. Unknown\n“I didn’t want to fall in love, not at all. But at some point you smiled and holy shit I blew it.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-08](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1Gr6SP7xdJO3xcXbb8BHig/93add79cd0f856cde84e0f33cdf3e30e/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-08.png)\n\n### 112. Lily Tomlin\n“If love is the answer, could you rephrase the question?” \n\n### 113. Unknown\n“Of all the tools I have in the kitchen, you're the jar opener I love the most.”\n\n### 114. Unknown\n “I stole U from the alphabet because U belong to me!”\n\n### 115. Rita Rudner\n“I love being married. It’s so great to find one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.”\n\n### 116. Jean Illsley Clarke\n“I love you no matter what you do, but do you have to do so much of it?”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-clarke](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2CpBkb4pciii5HSTkpx5fq/7dff68f4d82f9cbd976bd6c184edcc99/love-quotes-for-him-clarke.png)\n\n### 117. Unknown\n\"I think you are suffering from a lack of vitamin me.\" \n\n### 118. Unknown\n\"I love you even more than I am annoyed by you. Which is a lot.\"\n\n### 119. Iona Mink\n\"I love you. You annoy me more than I ever thought possible. But I want to spend every irritating minute with you.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-minke](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/0N3TN5x99B7KcBenXr2q8/551690736715aab1e6605c59a2a10ec1/love-quotes-for-him-minke.png)\n\n### 120. Unknown\n\"I promise to love you, respect you, support you, and above all else, make sure I’m not just yelling at you because I’m hungry.\" \n\n### 121. Unknown\n\"I love you from my head tomatoes.\" \n\n### 122. Unknown\n\"Sometimes I wonder how you put up with me. Then I remember—I put up with you. So we’re even.\"\n\n### 123. Megan Mullally\n\"Spend a few minutes a day really listening to your spouse. No matter how stupid his problems sound to you.\" \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-mullally](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2FSNluCvgGvMiJOlaC53JB/7f9f5927880a9ea8ce8b518f0d0f2eac/love-quotes-for-him-mullally.png)\n\n### 124. Lucille Ball\n\"It wasn’t love at first sight. It took a full five minutes.\"\n\n### 125. Unknown\n \"I promise to always cop a feel when you’re trying to get ready in the morning.\"\n\n### 126. Unknown\n\"I want to be the reason you look down at your phone and smile. Then walk into a pole.\"\n\n### 127. Unknown\n\"I love you even when I’m really, really hungry.\"\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-09](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Khb2E9qJhN0mGY96im5ks/edddfa5948ab4ee77edf1e20bd021e7b/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-09.png)\n\n## Famous love quotes for him \n\n### 128. William Shakespeare, “Romeo and Juliet”\n\"And yet I wish but for the thing I have;\nMy bounty is as boundless as the sea,\nMy love as deep; the more I give to thee,\nThe more I have, for both are infinite.\"\n\n### 129. The Beatles, “All You Need is Love”\n\"All you need is love.\"\n\n### 130. Michel de Montaigne, “On Friendship”\n\"If you press me to say why I loved him, I can say no more than because he was he, and I was I.\"\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-montaigne](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2AUyuyJMsgMN4c15c3Bvi0/1146f1776710fd3d0ad77b721d4f1ac2/love-quotes-for-him-montaigne.png)\n\n### 131. Edgar Allen Poe\n“We loved with a love that was more than love.”\n\n### 132. Mark Twain\n“Love: the irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired.”\n\n### 133. Mother Teresa\n“Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.”\n\n### 134. Laura Jesson, “Brief Encounter”\n“I’ve fallen in love. I’m an ordinary woman. I didn’t think such violent things could happen to ordinary people.”\n\n### 135. Jack Twist, “Brokeback Mountain”\n“I wish I knew how to quit you.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-twist](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6VhwI526yQUoc0idVDMcLr/29abb3216b0490ea58123df8de497fe1/love-quotes-for-him-twist.png)\n\n### 136. Mark, “Love, Actually”\n“To me, you are perfect.” \n\n### 137. Dorothy Boyd, “Jerry Maguire”\n“You had me at hello.”\n\n### 138. F. Scott Fitzgerald, “The Great Gatsby”\n“I wish I had done everything on earth with you.” \n\n### 139. Ethel Thayer, “On Golden Pond”\n“Listen to me, mister. You’re my knight in shining armor. Don’t you forget it.” \n\n### 140. “Pride and Prejudice”\n“You have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love…I love…I love you.” \n\n### 141. “Big Fish”\n\"They say when you meet the love of your life, time stops, and that’s true.” \n\n### 142. “The Princess Bride”\n\"Death cannot stop true love. All it can do is delay it for a while.\"\n\n### 143. Noah Calhoun, “The Notebook”\n“If you’re a bird, I’m a bird.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-calhoun](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3tHBxU5sqBvWEvUaitJtKo/935114ac0e15c5df3ab8b6e2ef529e95/love-quotes-for-him-calhoun.png)\n\n### 144. Oscar Wilde\n\"Never love anyone who treats you like you're ordinary.\"\n\n### 145. E. E. Cummings\n\"You are my sun, my moon, and all my stars.\"\n\n### 146. Maya Angelou\n\"Love recognizes no barriers.\"\n\n## Romantic love quotes for him \n\n### 147. Sanober Khan\n“To fall in love with someone's thoughts—the most intimate, splendid romance.” \n\n### 148. Ranata Suzuki \n“Your memory feels like home to me. So whenever my mind wanders, it always finds its way back to you.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-suzuki](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/37BNLKqzgPN66bDAvtCZ0l/337e12ed6b96b2a947105ea11845fae4/love-quotes-for-him-suzuki.png)\n\n### 149. Suzanne Collins, “Mockingjay”\n“‘You love me. Real or not real?’ I tell him, ‘Real.’” \n\n### 150. Unknown\n“Being in love with you makes every morning worth getting up for.” \n\n### 151. Sinclair Lewis\n“What is love? It is the morning and the evening star.” \n\n### 152. OneRepublic, “Apologize”\n ”I need you like a heart needs a beat.”\n\n### 153. Bruno Mars, “Just the Way You Are”\n“When I see your face, there’s not a thing that I would change, ‘cause you’re amazing just the way you are.” \n\n### 154. Ralph Block\n“You’re nothing short of my everything.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-block](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4meLcN77xeyo8ym4MzyAcl/19ae9c3ce0d8c85227abb188dded35a7/love-quotes-for-him-block.png)\n\n### 155. Julie James\n“I’ve been in love with you since the very beginning. You asked why there isn’t anyone else in my life, and the reason…is you.”\n\n### 156. Charles de Leusse\n“The water shines only by the sun. And it is you who are my sun.”\n\n### 157. Sarah McLachlan\n“Your love is better than ice cream.\"\n\n### 158. Savage Garden\n\"I knew I loved you before I met you.\"\n\n### 159. Joel Barish, “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”\n“I can't see anything I don't like about you.” \n\n![love-quotes-for-him-block](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6DTAvZH72JwSoBA5UIICtk/4cb3145bb4f3097d227482b47b5851d1/love-quotes-for-him-barish.png)\n\n### 160. Unknown\n“I don’t need paradise because I found you…I don’t need dreams because I already have you.”\n\n### 161. Unknown\n“My love, do you know that my entire night was spent dreaming about you? Now I want to spend my whole day with you.”\n\n### 162. Unknown\n“Your morning coffee will be made perfect, with a teaspoon of my love and a pinch of my hugs.”\n\n### 163. Unknown\n“I could tell you that you complete me, but that would not be the truth, for each morning when I wake I long for you more than before.”\n\n### 164. Unknown\n“It doesn’t matter if I have coffee or tea. I will feel the same as long as I know that you are thinking about me.”\n\n![love-quotes-for-him-unknown-10 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6WaVFP4mTxUr7kOUAx16RB/ae0c0885b9f3a99adc72307bf7b0ef9b/love-quotes-for-him-unknown-10__1_.png)\n\n### 165. Unknown\n“I hope your morning is as bright as your smile!” \n\n### 166. Unknown\n“As the morning sunrise creeps through the blinds, being with you is the only thing on my mind.”\n\n### 167. Unknown\n“When I wake up and see you lying next to me, I can’t help but smile. It will be a good day simply because I started it with you.”\n\n### 168. Princess Diana\n“If you find someone you love in your life, then hang on to that love.”\n\n### 169. Helen Keller\n\"The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard but must be felt with the heart.\"\n\n### 170. Vincent Van Gogh\n\"Love is something eternal, the aspect may change, but not the essence.\"\n\nWhether you’re [newly engaged](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/relationship-advice/newly-engaged-couples) or [met each other](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-places-that-couples-getting-married-met) long ago, there are no rules or wrong answers when it comes to writing a love message for him, what matters most is that you share from the heart. This goes for all types of notes for others, whether it’s a [wedding card](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-write-in-a-wedding-card) or an anniversary message. If you’re writing to commemorate your anniversary, check out Zola’s collection of [wedding anniversary gift ideas](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas) to find the perfect gift. From engagement to marriage, we have all the advice you need.","tag":"Newlywed Advice","updatedAt":"2024-04-23T11:52:15.177Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Dating","slug":"dating"},"slug":"the-places-that-couples-getting-married-met","title":"Top Places Couples Actually Met Each Other","excerpt":"Here’s a look into where our 2023 couples’ love stories started. ","author":"Shameika Rhymes","publishedAt":"2022-01-10T04:26:29.584Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UdOtpzW1eVx17R4Uu6ceJ/7b2d9ed3b95b2447ef1f048e1f4ef89b/1116_EA_FLR-Places_Couples_Met.jpg","altText":"Top Places Couples Actually Meet Each Other"},"heroCredit":"Hannah Pascual Photo","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- There are several places (and during different life stages) where you can meet your future spouse, from your teenage years to your adult years. \n- Some of the top places that engaged couples met were at school, work, via online dating, and through friends.\n- Others met their partner partying the night away at a bar, through family, at church, at the gym, and at restaurants.","body":"Meeting that special someone can happen in a myriad of places, but meeting the one that will be your forever bae and partner for the rest of your life is a moment to treasure. \n\nIn [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2023), we surveyed 4,000 engaged couples to find out who they are, what their priorities are for their 2023 weddings, and what makes these weddings different than ever before. We found that 2023 couples met at a variety of places and life stages. If you’re single, you may wonder where to find someone. Here’s a look into where our 2023 couples’ love stories started. \n\n## __Top Places Where Couples Met__ \n\nWhile your match made in heaven isn’t going to literally fall out of the sky, you can find him or her in one of the following places, like these couples did. \n\n### 1. At school\n\nTwenty-eight percent of couples say that they met in an educational setting. Think about it, you spend most of your time on campus in your late teens and early 20s, and that’s the time when most people find their other half. Some even end up marrying their high school sweethearts. \n\nIf you’re attending a workshop or some other event at a school, for maybe your child or a niece or nephew, then you could bump into that school principal or teacher that takes your breath away. One survey participant said, “I was visiting my parent’s island where they were born and raised. [My now fiance] was a teacher at one of the schools I was visiting, and I fell in love with him and just wanted to get to know him even more. He says [that] the same goes for him, he had to get to know me and from then on we just knew we would be together.”\n\n### 2. Online dating\n\nTechnology is the new wave by dating via an app. Twenty-seven percent of couples say that they met through an online dating service or app. “I matched with a guy on Hinge; he set up a date with me and then canceled at the last minute, but told me that his roommate was recently single, so he set up the date to be with him. It was double-blind for me since I didn't know that Hinge guy at all. Turns out, we went to school two hours away, have many mutual friends, but never crossed paths,” says one engaged individual. There are so many apps to try, and you may get frustrated, but don’t give up. Keep swiping up, down, right, and left, until you find someone that catches your eye. \n\n### 3. Through friends\n\nThe friend network still works! Nineteen percent of surveyed people met their partner through a friend, so it may be time to let your friends know that you are ready to mingle. Have your friend introduce you to their single friends. \n\n### 4. At work \n\nIt may feel weird to date and work in the same place, but for some it works. Eleven percent say that they met their significant other at work. One couple in the survey says that they met while he was a cashier at Target and she was his customer. Another engaged couple shared, “We met as members of a philharmonic chorus and won our first Grammy in 2021” (talk about an award winning connection)! A word of caution, make sure that you know the rules of the workplace, as you may have to inform your human resources department if you start dating your co-worker or even your boss. \n\n## Other Popular Places Where Couples Met\nSometimes love can appear when you least expect it and when you aren’t even looking for it. Here are some more popular places that engaged couples met. \n\n### 5. A bar \n\nYou may be thinking that meeting someone at a bar is so cliche, and that it can only mean that you’re looking for a one night stand. Not always! Your other half could just be out with friends and you lock eyes as you are with your friends, and the rest is history! Besides, if you have a drink, that will ease your nerves, so you can get the convo started. \n\n### 6. Facebook \n\nYou never know what could happen when you accept or send that friend request. Many people have reconnected with an old flame or met a new one via Facebook, whether it’s by sliding into the inbox or exchanging comments on a thread. Facebook also has the dating feature, so the option of dating online is still there. \n\n### 7. Through family \n\nFamily members love to help their loved ones find love. It might not be so bad, as they just may know what you need. “His grandfather and I worked together at the YMCA. He tried to get us to exchange numbers, without meeting, for a month before we agreed to. We met for our first date two days later,” says one survey participant. Another one added, “We were family friends our entire lives and ultimately (and strategically) [were] seated together at a wedding.” You may not want your family messing with your love life, but sometimes they strike gold.\n\n### 8. Church \n\nIf you are active at church (or another place of worship) and spend a lot of time there, then this may be the spot that you find your other half. From the singles ministries to teaching Sunday school, you never know if you just might pass the communion wafers to your new boo. \n\n### 9. At the gym \n\nGetting fit may not be a bad idea when there’s the potential that you can run into your future spouse. You may find yourself on the same treadmill every day beside the same person and then strike up a conversation and realize that you actually have some things in common. Working on a common goal to get healthy or stay healthy may be the bond you form with someone that works or works out at the gym. While it wasn’t at a gym, one couple met performing an athletic activity together. “He fought my ex-boyfriend at a paintball park when we were teenagers, and won.”\n\n### 10. At a restaurant \n\nBefore you question us, hear us out. If you like to go out to eat by yourself, you may notice (or be noticed by) another person dining out solo and decide to join each other for an appetizer. Or, if you are eating at the bar, maybe you hit it off with the bartender or someone sitting nearby. It’s also possible that the waiter or waitress is the one that you’ve been waiting to meet for your whole life. Coffee shops are also an option to potentially meet your significant other. \n\n## Unique Places Where Couples Met \nThere are so many ways to meet that special person who will ultimately become your spouse. \n\nKeep an open mind, like these couples did. \n\n### 11. Craigslist \n\nOne couple met by responding to an ad. “He responded to my friend's ad looking for a subletter.” That one piece of furniture that you’re wanting to buy or sell on Craigslist could lead you to the one that grabs a piece of your heart.\n\n### 12. Chuck E. Cheese \n\nA teenage love can start anywhere, and it did for this couple. “I was 14 and he was 15, both in attendance at a family member’s birthday.” But, as an adult, you may be attending your godchild’s birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese and meet your future partner on the other side of the building attending a family member’s party. It can happen! \n\n### 13. At a Renaissance Fair \n\nWhat better way to meet someone than at a place where your interests intersect? Imagine a 16th century European style art and entertainment festival that blends history and fantasy through outdoor theater with throwback costumes? You may just find your Romeo or Juliet. \n\n### 14. UberPool \n\nWith UberPool, riders heading in the same direction choose to share a ride. So, if you’re heading downtown and the Uber driver picks up another rider, you may just hit it off. Who knows, it could be fate.\n\nRegardless of where these couples met, they are feeling more excited than ever. Forty percent say that they are more excited and in love than ever. \n\n## Meet Zola, The One Place to Start Wedding Planning\n\nAfter getting engaged, you and your partner need to get hooked up with all the right tools and services to make your online wedding planning as easy as possible. Set up a Zola account to:\n- Create a [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry)\n- Set up your personal [wedding planning Checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)\n- Build a [free wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website)\n- [Order save the dates and invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)\n- [Browse wedding inspiration](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/weddings)\n- [Book your wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-venues)\n- Download the [Zola Weddings App](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/zola-Fweddings/id1224719355?ls=1&mt=8) on all your mobile devices (even those [Androids](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.zola.android.wedding&hl=en)) for even more wedding inspiration.\n- [Follow Zola](https://www.facebook.com/zola/) on your [favorite social channels](https://www.instagram.com/zola/) for unbeatable inspiration and advice. \n- Download Zola’s [12-month wedding planning timeline](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist) (if you aren’t using our digital Wedding Checklist tool).\n\nFor more tips and guidance on pre-wedding festivities, check out our [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) expert advice for [engaged couples](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/pre-wedding-activities/getting-engaged).\n","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"We count down our 20 most popular wedding website templates.","title":"20 Free Wedding Website Templates That Will Inspire You","slug":"20-most-popular-zola-wedding-website-templates","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2C4ipaW0Zc4U1VbuH7Y3zv/8a2a008bc80c3186ceff9b89a12d25c8/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"20 Most Popular Zola Wedding Website Templates"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Writing your own wedding vows is one of the best ways to add a romantic and intimate touch to your wedding day. We’ll guide you through the process from start to finish, plus provide templates to help you get started.","title":"How to Write Wedding Vows: A Complete Guide","slug":"how-to-write-wedding-vows","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6U2MKqbGyKE1ymqVorZt6O/caea3980079fe09f3ac0e8257576da32/Guide-to-wedding-vows-img03.jpg","altText":"Bride reading vows during wedding ceremony to groom"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Want to find out where your partner stands on marriage, but not sure how to broach the subject? Read on to find how and when to talk about marriage when dating.","title":"How to Talk About Marriage When Dating","slug":"how-to-talk-about-marriage-when-dating","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XxX5CB6Xz06uYVX1pkihD/8363ec8437cf3a9816750c0a772ef8fb/Hero_TraditionalNuptialsinMiami_InfiniteLoopPhotography_Films.jpg","altText":"Talk About Marriage When Dating"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"All-inclusive wedding venues provide essential services, thus reducing your need to vet and book wedding vendors. Is all-inclusive right for you? Find out here.","title":"All-Inclusive Wedding Venues: Pros and Cons","slug":"all-inclusive-wedding-venues-pros-and-cons","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5eznmjUVFSy09jRw72LyF0/a741e4fd3b17ed5e3a8adba1d52d2be9/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"All-Inclusive Wedding Venues: Pros and Cons"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:31.159Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Dating","slug":"dating"},"slug":"how-to-talk-about-marriage-when-dating","title":"How to Talk About Marriage When Dating","excerpt":"Want to find out where your partner stands on marriage, but not sure how to broach the subject? Read on to find how and when to talk about marriage when dating.","author":"Lisa Wong Macabasco","publishedAt":"2020-12-22T20:35:08.748Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XxX5CB6Xz06uYVX1pkihD/8363ec8437cf3a9816750c0a772ef8fb/Hero_TraditionalNuptialsinMiami_InfiniteLoopPhotography_Films.jpg","altText":"Talk About Marriage When Dating"},"heroCredit":"Infinite Loop Photography+Films","body":"When dating, it can be nerve-wracking to broach the subject of marriage. But for those who think they’ve found a long-term partner and are ready to have a frank discussion about where the relationship is heading, this is an important step—and there are several important things to consider. \n\nIf you’re ready to take the plunge, here’s some sage expert advice about how to talk about marriage while you’re still dating. \n\n## Consider Your Timing\nFirst, it’s important to have a candid talk with your partner about where the relationship is heading and whether you both agree marriage is in the cards. When exactly this conversation should happen is based in part on your age and your priorities. \n\nIf you’re around 30 or older, it’s critical to talk about where the relationship is heading after being together for six months or so, especially if a woman wants to have children, advises [Yvonne Thomas](https://www.yvonnethomasphd.com/), Ph.D., a Los Angeles–based psychologist whose specialties include relationships. (The talk could happen as early as three months if things look serious.) “But if people are in their 20s, sometimes you're just having fun—you don't have to worry about biological time clocks,” says Thomas. \n\n![Zola_How to Talk About Marriage When Dating](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4yqVzRoVg6s2SRVDqApGJ3/8a64ed447f14792145548b14505a57a7/Inline_unsplash__39_.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n## Read the Room\n\nMake sure the conditions are right for these kinds of serious discussions. “You don't want to freak anybody out and you want to do it lovingly,” says Thomas. “You want to do it as a team, so it needs to be non-adversarial and needs to be calm. Nobody should have been drinking or under the influence of anything. You want to be clear-headed. You want to be able to be in a good frame of mind, not too tired, not cranky.”\n\n## Set a Tone of Honesty \n\nConversations about marriage during dating can feel more difficult for many reasons. Sometimes one partner feels more ready than the other and doesn’t want to be pushy. Other times one partner cannot fully commit or may not feel mature enough to marry and make a lifelong commitment to anyone yet. This begs the question about whether the more ready partner should wait. In those cases, frank and open discussions need to be had about whether they both want each other as life partners and have the same desire to marry one another. If those things are the same, then sometimes couples can compromise on a timeline and discuss what may need to happen first. \n\n“When having marriage discussions, it’s best, to be honest about where you stand and listen carefully to the other person without being pushy,” says [Dr. Paulette Sherman](https://drpaulettesherman.com/), a psychologist, author of [Marriage and the Law of Attraction](https://www.amazon.com/Marriage-Law-Attraction-Creating-Relationship/dp/0991540557) and the host of The Love Psychologist podcast. “It is important to take your partner at their word and not to create a story that they will change their mind.” \n\nConsider prefacing the talk as one where you’ll both be honest and respect each other. “Go into the conversation with a loving and on-the-same-team kind of spirit,” says Thomas. “You want to make it non-threatening because you want each party to be transparent.” \n\n## Be Upfront About What You Want \n\n“If marriage is a non-negotiable for you, don’t be afraid to state that as early as a first date,” says [Anita Chlipala](https://www.relationshipreality312.com/), a Chicago-based licensed marriage, and family therapist. “Someone who also wants marriage won’t freak out because you stated your desire early on. I’ve worked with couples who spent years together and end up gridlocked over the issue of one partner wanting marriage and the other one doesn’t. If you don’t want to waste your time, make sure you continue to date someone whose end goal is the same as yours.”\n\n## Get in the Details of the Future\nDon’t focus only on the details of your dream wedding, but rather on the broad specifics of your lives together. “A wedding and a marriage are two separate things,” points out [Crystal Bradshaw](https://www.synergycounselinginnovations.com/), a licensed professional counselor specializing in couples counseling. “When talking about marriage, you need to focus on how you will both go through life together as teammates. You’ll have to talk about what your expectations are for each other as partners, as parents (if you want to have kids), as well as your expectations of the relationship. Don’t assume your partner shares your definition of marriage. Get explicit with this conversation, leave nothing to assumption.” Bradshaw recommends starting with these questions and topics:\n\n- Share your hopes, dreams, visions, and goals for your life.\n- Identify the core values and see how closely you match up, as those will be the pillars on which you build your relationship.\n- Explore what marriage means to you and why it’s important. What is it that you look to get out of marriage?\n- What do you envision for yourself two, seven, 12, or even 32 years from now? Do the visions you have for yourself align with your partner?\n- What life dreams do you share? Are there any life dreams that would create an obstacle or conflict? Have you given any thought to how you would approach obstacles that you don’t see eye-to-eye on?\n- What have you not considered that you need to reflect on?\n- In what ways are you complementary? What are the polarities that may contribute to future challenges that will need to be navigated? Is this a person you see navigating challenges with you? How do you anticipate navigating challenges?\n\n## Get Organized\n\nThomas recommends each partner independently make a list with three columns: nonnegotiables/deal breakers, compromises, and nice-to-haves. Compromises are the ones where everybody could give a little bit to meet in the middle. Nice-to-haves are, well, nice to have, but not necessary. Then, tackle each of your important topics, sorting each into a column: children, religion, family, jobs, where you want to live, etc. Then compare notes with your partner. This exercise will help clarify where you both stand and how much room for compromise exists around the life topics you care about. \n\n## Give It Time—and Space\n![Zola_How to Talk About Marriage When Dating](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5SHtGqeFV7V0pndZbWEYRr/07dfc1b56374f84b7839cdf4b9826a0c/Inline_unsplash__38_.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nFor these heavy conversations with your partner, it’s best to have a series of conversations over time instead of one hash-it-all-out session. The first conversation can cover whether you’re both interested in marriage at all in general and then proceed from there.\n\nIt’s important to spend time reflecting separately, Thomas notes. “Let each other have space and time to think about it on their own so that they can come back as authentic and as real as possible. Each person needs to know their truth and speak their truth. And the other one's going to have to hear it.”\n\nThe bottom line: If you're in a long term relationship, good communication is key. Before jumping into marriage, discuss important topics like religion, life goals, commitment, and finances. The sooner you have these difficult conversations and ask the important questions, the faster you'll be able to tell if the two of you are made for each other.\n","tag":"How To","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Finding the person you spend forever with is no easy task. There are signs to look out for to know if someone is your soulmate. Learn more here.","title":"How Do You Know You’ve Found “The One“?","slug":"how-do-you-know-youve-found-the-one","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1qEbZGmQOEVaFZN6Y5nzWM/6c3650f50147658c78f789ed88111e8a/Hero_ModernFallElopementatFreeman-s_AngelicaRadwayPhotography.jpg","altText":"Finding the one to marry"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You and your partner have been dating for a while—when is it time to take the big step and move in together? Read on to find out.","title":"9 Signs That You Are Ready To Move In Together","slug":"when-should-you-move-in-together","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6z1izCU2tGEqryBcT8bFYr/4b6c68a7c775065543b70388532a288f/Hero_New__19_.jpg","altText":"couple moving in together"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the person you spend forever with is no easy task. There are signs to look out for to know if someone is your soulmate. Learn more here.","title":"How Do You Know You’ve Found “The One“?","slug":"how-do-you-know-youve-found-the-one","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1qEbZGmQOEVaFZN6Y5nzWM/6c3650f50147658c78f789ed88111e8a/Hero_ModernFallElopementatFreeman-s_AngelicaRadwayPhotography.jpg","altText":"Finding the one to marry"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:24.337Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Dating","slug":"dating"},"slug":"30-romantic-affordable-date-night-ideas","title":"30 Romantic and Affordable Date Night Ideas","excerpt":"Dating doesn’t need to be expensive, and our list of date ideas that don't break the bank will reassure you of that.","author":"Jennifer Prince","publishedAt":"2023-05-08T09:22:13.840Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1wugm9DOgCD5y3wCfcxJhC/e40cd6fc8994b3521cb2e8407896bacb/pexels-mental-health-america-_mha_-5531277__2_.jpg","altText":"30 Romantic Affordable Date Night Ideas"},"heroCredit":"Pexels","body":"Whether you’re going on your first date or your hundredth, it’s important to make time for each other and go out every once in a while. Being able to talk, laugh, and spend time together is essential as you build and strengthen your relationship. However, the cost associated with going out to do something often can be draining on the budget — but it doesn’t have to be! \n\nPlanning a fun date can be simple and affords you and your partner the opportunity to get creative. Plus, with an [upcoming wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/12-no-fuss-proposal-ideas-for-the-low-maintenance-couple) (or recently celebrated), making memories and not breaking the bank go hand in hand. Even better, any of these ideas make for the perfect [experiences](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/local-experiences) and [cash funds](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/50-fun-and-useful-ways-to-use-your-wedding-cash-fund) to add to your registry!\n\nSo, if you’ve been wondering about inexpensive and free date ideas, follow along!\n\n## 1. Try a New Food Truck\nHey, you have to eat anyway. Whether you go for Sunday brunch or Tuesday night dinner, plan to try somewhere new. Some cities even have food truck parks with multiple vendors to choose from, so you can each get something from a different vendor and share.\n\n## 2. Go to the Farmers’ Market\nHeading to the local farmers’ market is one of those fun date ideas that can turn into a second date. Scour the stands for ingredients to make a meal, and then plan a time to have an at-home date to cook and eat together. \n\n## 3. Write Each Other Love Letters\nAdmittedly, this is a date idea for those together for a while. However, writing a love letter can be revealing and intimate. If you need ideas on how to begin, describe what you enjoy about each other and how you picture your future together.\n\n## 4. Have a Book Club Session\nDo you both enjoy reading? Choose a book, read it separately, and then come together to discuss it. Or you can read the book together, taking turns out loud. As a bonus, buy the books from a used site to save even more.\n\n## 5. Visit an Animal Shelter\nCats or dogs? It doesn’t matter when you visit your local shelter. Either ask the shelter where they need help or simply go in and pay attention to the animals after checking in with the front desk. The furbabies will love the extra scrubs behind the ears.\n\n## 6. Play Board Games\nPlan on staying in for a game night. Challenge each other to something mind-bending like chess, or channel your inner child and play Life or Operation if you have those lying around. If you’re looking for simple date ideas, this is it! \n\n![john-benitez- zNgspEPHCI-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3pN9NRjPhSsWcEMeLzM7eF/34da41487081ee0d21e8a2c5ad7aca92/john-benitez-_zNgspEPHCI-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // John Benitez\n\n## 7. Build a Blanket Fort\nIt may seem crazy, but building a living room fort is a fabulous way to get cozy together. Gather all of the pillows and blankets you can find and watch a movie on your phone or have a picnic inside your newly constructed fort.\n\n## 8. Attend a Karaoke Night\nOne of the best things about karaoke is that you can belt out your favorite tunes, and it doesn’t matter how you sound. Choose your favorite song and cheer each other on. You can even select a duet so you don’t have to go onstage alone.\n\n## 9. Enjoy a Hike\nHave you been asking about [date ideas](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/20th-wedding-anniversary-ideas) near me? Well, check out your local hiking trails or visit a state park. Choose a rigorous path up a mountain, or traverse a flatter, paved rails-to-trails system.\n\n## 10. Go for Ice Cream\nHeading out for ice cream is a fun way to eat dessert and chat for a while. Plus, it’s a spontaneous activity that you can do on a whim. However, you can also plan an ice cream night at your local handmade scoop shop.\n\n## 11. Craft a DIY Project\nWhether it’s for your wedding day or your new home, plan an inexpensive DIY project that you can do together. You can also turn a DIY night into a friendly competition to see who can make the best gingerbread house or fresh floral arrangement.\n\n## 12. Walk Through a Botanical Garden\nSee if you have a local botanical garden that’s free, even if it’s on the smaller side. Community gardens are often nearby, especially if you live somewhere near New York City’s Central Park. Try and identify flowers and plants while you’re there.\n\n![jonas-denil-vHwWmuWgoRw-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5hmlj7dbkj1FCsAS0K0Bcd/f98796450331a3ca227984993f40216c/jonas-denil-vHwWmuWgoRw-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Jonas Denil\n\n## 13. Head to Happy Hour\nEating and drinking on a date can be pricey. So check with your local bars and restaurants to see if they have any happy hour specials. Often light bites and drinks are cheaper during this time, and you get to try something new.\n\n## 14. Go Stargazing on a Clear Night\nOn a cloudless night, go to a local park, rooftop, or open space to look up at the stars. Stargazing is one of the most romantic date ideas. Additionally, download an app or borrow a book so you can identify constellations in the sky.\n\n## 15. Build Ice Cream Sundaes\nIf you don’t feel like going out for ice cream, stay in. Get fixings for ice cream sundaes, and make your own at home. See who can make the prettiest creation or build a sundae for two. Or see if you can make one for each other and guess what the other would want.","body2":"## 16. Go People Watching\nHuman beings are so interesting! From how folks express themselves through fashion or their mannerisms, people-watching is a fun (and free!) way to spend your time. Whether you live in NYC or in a small town, there are people to see.\n\n## 17. Laugh at a Comedy Club\nDeep chuckles are good for the soul — and your relationship! See if there are any free or inexpensive comedy shows nearby and laugh at the comedian’s jokes. Afterward, discuss which parts you found funniest.\n\n## 18. Play Video Games\nEven if you aren’t into gaming, your partner may be. Offer to learn an easy game and play at home. This is also a great date night idea if you both love gaming and have to be apart, as you can play together online.\n\n## 19. Try a New Coffee Shop\nYou may already have a favorite place to get morning brews but try to go somewhere different instead. Try your staple drink, or be adventurous and try a specialty latte. Who knows? You may even find a new coffeehouse to patronize regularly.\n\n![toa-heftiba-6bKpHAun4d8-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2nGyxgDbH29y8cAT3iSgVT/803a871bf49584fb8000f7363ca31402/toa-heftiba-6bKpHAun4d8-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Toa Heftiba\n\n## 20. Go Window Shopping\nGazing at shop displays is one of those cute date ideas that doesn’t have to cost a penny. Walk along your main street area or the local shopping mall and talk about what you’d buy if you could. \n\n## 21. Attend a Live Music Night\nSee if any local bands are putting on a complimentary show or if any artists are playing for free at a coffee shop or park. Snuggle as you listen to tunes and familiarize yourself with new music.\n\n## 22. Take a Trip Down Memory Lane\nDid you grow up together and still live near home? Drive by your old high school or the house where you grew up. Talk about things you’ve learned since those early days, or tell stories from your youth.\n\n## 23. Play Mini Golf\nAre you still asking what are date activities near me? Try miniature golf, which is one of the most popular cheap date ideas. See if you have a course near you or plan a day trip to visit a town nearby to play.\n\n## 24. Binge Watch During Movie Night\nIf you and your partner have a favorite movie genre, skip the movie theaters and drive-in movies and stay in. Either select films from a streaming service like Netflix or get out the DVD player for nostalgia’s sake.\n\n## 25. Plan a Double Date\nGrab your best couple friends and go on a double date, which will be twice the fun! Let each couple plan part of the activity and then split the costs. Whether you go out to eat or stay in and play games, this is one of the best cheap date ideas.\n\n## 26. Skate at Your Local Rink\nGo roller skating — or ice skating if the season is right — and spend time perfecting your technique. Hold hands or the side of the rink if needed, and prepare for special memories with your significant other. \n\n## 27. Have a Picnic\nMake a charcuterie board or simply grab dinner to-go and head to a lovely spot for a picnic. Turn this into a year-round activity by planning a winter picnic indoors or on a rooftop under the stars.\n\n![nicole-herrero-rWWLpxSefp8-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2rF8VWdYPLnEe02gEFjyOl/4e7790d18abed6aa63917f47e5680ac9/nicole-herrero-rWWLpxSefp8-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Nicole Herrero\n\n## 28. Explore on a Bike Ride\nIf you don’t have bikes, your city may have rentals or a bike share program. Find out where the best trails are — flat or mountain, depending on your skill level — and exercise while having a great time.\n\n## 29. Borrow a Kayak\nEven if you don’t own kayaks, you may be able to rent them inexpensively or borrow a set. Head to a local lake for a leisurely time of exploration, or float down the river on a sunny day.\n\n## 30. Listen to a Podcast\nDo you have a favorite podcast that you both listen to or have you heard a great episode you want your partner to experience? Go for a drive, or snuggle up on the couch and listen to it.\n\nNo matter what you decide to do, spending time together is essential for relationships. Let Zola’s ideas encourage you to plan dates that don’t have to cost a lot or cause stress on [your finances](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/50-fun-and-useful-ways-to-use-your-wedding-cash-fund) and have fun while doing so.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"widget2":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Registry"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"We count down our 20 most popular wedding website templates.","title":"20 Free Wedding Website Templates That Will Inspire You","slug":"20-most-popular-zola-wedding-website-templates","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2C4ipaW0Zc4U1VbuH7Y3zv/8a2a008bc80c3186ceff9b89a12d25c8/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"20 Most Popular Zola Wedding Website Templates"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Follow these step-by-step instructions for how to plan an engagement party to achieve guaranteed hosting success. ","title":"The Ultimate Guide to Plan an Engagement Party","slug":"how-to-plan-an-engagement-party","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6gsqs04WfHnnZR5YSUGvch/ac4778019adadb17d985dc84e1ef3aff/Brand_Book_Yeti_03.jpg","altText":"Yeti cooler filled with bottles of sparkling rose wine and glasses filled with wine in the background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Diamond experts share all the places you can wear your engagement ring and where you shouldn't wear your ring. Plus, tips for keeping your engagement ring like new.","title":"Where You Can (and Can't) Wear Your Engagement Ring","slug":"where-you-can-and-cant-wear-your-engagement-ring","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1EkyCSqm040daFYaobOyaH/00c105e08f44c0785713e860c896e31e/Hero_Zola__1_.jpg","altText":"where you can wear your engagment rings"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Weddings are steeped in love, family, friends, and tradition. Take a look at these gorgeous, traditional wedding dresses to find your perfect fit with Zola.","title":"Classic Wedding Dresses For The Traditional Bride","slug":"classic-wedding-dresses-for-the-traditional-bride","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/512UjLaFdPTOcMjscnM16l/c91186555d4d48bca1f48d4d04c5409b/inline_shutterstock__4_.png","altText":"Classic Wedding Dresses For The Traditional Bride"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Check out our latest blog to discover our top 35th wedding anniversary ideas. Read our blog for more. ","title":"35 Unique 35th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas","slug":"35th-wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas-that-put-new-spins-on-coral-and-jade","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2rTlkpD9oaAPmb4dOEcKwz/e7500024365df97d78c5338f33be872f/inline_unsplash__25_.jpg","altText":"35 Wedding Anniversary Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wanting to think out the box for your upcoming wedding anniversary gifts? Read this guide for some inspiration on choosing an anniversary gift for your husband.","title":"Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Husband","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas-for-husband","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2vtI05eFyRNuMAfMKeIcT8/9c828f199ec0faa8cdf9f28e1c95d4e9/inline_unsplash__11_.jpg","altText":"Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Husband"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You want to include everyone in your wedding party, but you know you can't. If you're having a hard time deciding who and how many, here's exactly how to figure out how many people should be in your wedding party.","title":"How Many People Should Be In Our Wedding Party?","slug":"how-many-people-in-wedding-party","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7jGh076UPkB6vrSPqXfSJP/10ec5e0e7e761f53fba669a78fa0273b/How-Many-People-Should-Be-Our-In-Wedding-Party_CapturedCoutureLLC.jpg","altText":"indian couple gets married with wedding party"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Everything you need to know to practice proper groomsmen etiquette is up on the blog. Read on to find out more.","title":"Groomsmen Etiquette 101: A Beginner's Guide","slug":"groomsmen-etiquette-101-a-beginners-guide","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/p1emi1UCDPEYpulAeBOS5/48401b251b3daaf22a3892fa9e064db9/Inline_Tricia_McCormack_Photography.png","altText":"groomsmen at wedding"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:28.170Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Dating","slug":"dating"},"slug":"how-do-you-know-youve-found-the-one","title":"How Do You Know You’ve Found “The One“?","excerpt":"Finding the person you spend forever with is no easy task. There are signs to look out for to know if someone is your soulmate. Learn more here.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2020-12-21T22:44:48.348Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1qEbZGmQOEVaFZN6Y5nzWM/6c3650f50147658c78f789ed88111e8a/Hero_ModernFallElopementatFreeman-s_AngelicaRadwayPhotography.jpg","altText":"Finding the one to marry"},"heroCredit":"Angelica Radway Photography","body":"Ah, “the one.” The concept that there’s one person meant for you, while lovely, is often followed by questions of how you know you’ve found that soulmate. Ask anyone you know that is in a long-term relationships and you’re likely to receive vague answers of, “*I just knew*” and “*everything just made sense.*” While that’s sweet for them, this ends up being more mystifying than helpful for you. Not to worry. \n\nWhether or not you believe that there’s one right person for you out there (among 7.8 million others), there *are* a few specific qualities that are present in most long-term partners (and successful relationships). Below, top relationship experts share their top five signs that you’ve found your person. Consider these your green flags.\n\n## What Do We Mean by “the One”?\n\nBefore we get into how you know you’ve found “the one,” let’s talk about what that even means. While books and film would have you believe this is some magical person that you’re supposed to be with, professional opinions are a bit more grounded in reality. \n\nIn simple terms, when most people say that they’ve found this person, what they mean is that they’ve found someone they feel is their life partner, says Dr. Chloe Carmichael, clinical psychologist and author of “[Dr. Chloe's 10 Commandments of Dating](https://www.drchloe.com/dating/)”, tells us. [Lisa Bahar](https://lisabahar.com/about-lisa-bahar/), marriage and family therapist and adjunct faculty for Pepperdine University’s Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program adds that this “synergy” or sense of being on the “same wavelength” often comes from sharing some fundamental beliefs about relationships and the world in general.\n\nThe pitfall of this idea is that there’s only one specific partner that you’re supposed to somehow find and be with. This is where relationship professionals and our favorite cheesy rom-coms clash. Across the board, our experts agree that, in all likelihood, there are actually multiple people who could be a potential partner. \n\nThis is great news! If you thought you’d found the one and it didn’t work out, rest assured that you haven’t missed your only shot. There’s a high chance that you’ll meet someone else that’s just as—if not more—compatible for you. That being said, there are definitely a few key signs that you’ve connected with someone you could have a wonderful, successful relationship with. These include… \n\n## You Share Similar Values and Priorities\n\nWhat are the [qualities to look for in a partner](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-talk-about-marriage-when-dating)? While they don’t need to be identical, your partner should, at least, have similar core values and priorities as you. This could involve religion, political views, future planning, and even things along the line of education level and [finances](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/to-dos-after-you-get-engaged). “These are values and priorities that define a person’s character and perspective on life,” says Bahar. \n\nShe explains that people often look for others who relate in these ways in order to click. While opposites can attract—and help each person in a relationship grow—having values and priorities in common can massively aid in creating a strong foundation and clear outlook on the future. If you’re unclear if this is the case, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby, marriage and family therapist, author of “[Exaholics: Breaking Your Addiction to an Ex Love](https://www.amazon.com/Exaholics-Breaking-Your-Addiction-Love/dp/145491825X)”, and host of the [Love, Happiness, and Success](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/love-happiness-success-podcast/id858864457?mt=2) podcast suggests asking yourself if your partner has a track record of making what you feel are good decisions, and if their long term goals feel compatible with yours.\n\n## You Have Healthy Communication and Accountability\n\nHaving healthy communication is when you’re able to be honest and transparent with one-another, without a conversation devolving into a hateful or bitter argument. As you can imagine, this is crucial in a relationship that wants to go the distance. \n\nBeing able to communicate will be the tool that gets you past inevitable conflicts and disagreements. Dr. Bobby notes that it’s important that someone shows the ability to “stay in the ring” and have productive conversations—even when they’re challenging. Your partner should be able to apologize when they’ve done something wrong, and hold themselves accountable when need be. Likewise, they should also point out when you’ve done something to upset them and talk it out without getting defensive. Regardless of topic, your success as a couple and moving forward should always be the goal, not ‘winning’ or coming out on top.\n\n## There’s Mutual Affection and Intimacy\n\n![How Do You Know You’ve Found “The One](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/31WEnOdNfu8X72PrPyFAza/cbd2596c8c4a7c05d90bf898b88bc9c0/inline_unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nSimply put, your partner should be comfortable showing you affection. However, it’s crucial to note that there isn’t just one way that someone can express this. In fact, affection can be expressed through various acts. You’ve probably heard of the love languages—words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, [quality time](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/guests-weddings-and-vaccines-what-you-need-to-know), and physical touch. \n\nSimilar to that logic, your partner should be able to show their affection towards you in the ways that you feel you need (and vice-versa), whether that’s cuddling on the couch, praising your work, or doing you a favor. Just don’t expect someone to catch on to your specific needs in this area right away. If you feel it’d be helpful, have a conversation about how you both like to receive love and affection. From there, a partner that’s in it for the long haul will put in the effort to meet those needs.\n\nLikewise, your relationship should possess intimacy. While intimacy can lend itself to sexual compatibility, it can also mean that there’s a genuine closeness between the two of you. According to an [Instagram post](https://www.instagram.com/p/B3dzZpGnV-5/?utm_source=ig_embed) from Therapist [Alyssa Mancao](https://www.alyssamariewellness.com/), like love languages, there are also different types of intimacy—emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical. Mancao notes that these types of intimacy foster necessary closeness and connection in a relationship. While your partner may express their affection in ways specific to you, you should feel intimate with them on each of these levels.\n\n## They’re Willing to Seriously Discuss the Future\n\nWhile not often spoken about, an ability to seriously discuss your future together is one of the clearest signs that someone is the one. “Being ‘the one’ is more than just an immense enjoyment of each other’s company and a general sense that you have the same life blueprint. Being ‘the one’ in the sense of a life partner will typically also mean having a genuine willingness and ability to make a future-oriented commitment to you, in this moment,” explains Dr. Carmichael. \n\nBefore committing to the idea that someone is the one, she urges you to first understand more about whether the person is truly thinking in a future-oriented manner about a relationship with you specifically. If they are, great! If not, they may not be in the same place as you, nor want the same things. In either case, this is paramount to discuss with someone you consider a potential life partner.\n\n![How Do You Know You’ve Found “The One](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/odRMQ6b9YbK1gmUo4ZPl7/bba299016ba347f03f38e31d8e91703f/inline_unsplash_1_.jpg)*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n## You’re Both Willing to Fight for Your Relationship’s Success\n\nAs compatible as you may be on paper (or notes app), the strongest indicator of someone being “the one” is whether or not you’re both willing to make it work and work through [marriage problems](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/to-dos-after-you-get-engaged). While similar interests and values are important, you should both be prepared to build a strong foundation and work for your future together. If we’re being realistic, lasting relationships without conflict don’t exist. Because of this, you both need to be willing to fight for your relationship’s success. \n\n“[The one] is willing to work through deeper emotional blocks or hard times with each other,” states [Dr. Paulette Sherman](http://www.drpaulettesherman.com/), psychologist, author of “[Marriage and the Law of Attraction: The Secret to Creating Your Perfect Relationship](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0991540557/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tpbk_p1_i8)”, and host of The Love Psychologist Podcast. When you’re both prepared to put in the work for a future together, consider it a strong indicator that you’ve found the one.\n\nThe idea of finding your meant-to-be partner is a daunting one. On top of other common dating mishaps, it can sound like a tall order when you’re seeking someone you can have a serious relationship with. Likewise, it can be intimidating to question whether the person you’re seeing is really that compatible for you in the long term. In any case, try to avoid unnecessary spiraling and really think through these key factors. What’s most important here is that you’re honest with yourself about your relationship—even when it’s hard. When all else fails, just know that love isn’t an exact science. Take all the time you need and, ultimately, trust both your head and heart.\n","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Want to find out where your partner stands on marriage, but not sure how to broach the subject? Read on to find how and when to talk about marriage when dating.","title":"How to Talk About Marriage When Dating","slug":"how-to-talk-about-marriage-when-dating","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XxX5CB6Xz06uYVX1pkihD/8363ec8437cf3a9816750c0a772ef8fb/Hero_TraditionalNuptialsinMiami_InfiniteLoopPhotography_Films.jpg","altText":"Talk About Marriage When Dating"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"What are the most important things in a long, healthy relationship? Read on to find out now. ","title":"18 Things That Are Important In a Relationship","slug":"what-are-the-5-most-important-things-in-a-relationship","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2tRMjQG9NUdJdwEjUjdprR/76dcb8f489b13a16d5ff396dc6fcad62/18-Things-That-Are-Important-In-a-Relationship-.jpg","altText":"Most Important Things in a Relationship"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We spoke with a marriage therapist and couples about their best marriage advice for engaged couples, newlyweds, and couples celebrating another year of marriage.","title":"20 Best Marriage Advice Tips from Experts and Old Couples","slug":"the-3-best-pieces-of-marriage-advice-according-to-a-marriage-therapist","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7yk1TfwWjXPYXYiIyuvc4B/a8e8f51ad7935471908fa94113c38734/Hero_MountainDestinationWeddingatTheMagnoliaVenue_HeatherFaulknerPhotograhy.jpg","altText":"Mixed race bride and groom looking at each other lovingly on their big day"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:26.209Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Dating","slug":"dating"},"slug":"valentines-day-gift-date-ideas","title":"Valentine’s Day Gift and Date Ideas Based on Your Love Language","excerpt":"Whether you’re engaged, married, or just want to show someone how much you love them in their language, here are some ideas to try this Valentine's Day.","author":"Alexis Ferguson","publishedAt":"2022-02-15T01:02:18.513Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3br3AIQGlFLDxbQ2WcQ2Uj/462a668b649892dc09324691a87bd9a7/pexels-1.jpg","altText":"Valentine’s Day Gift and Date Ideas Based on Your Love Language"},"heroCredit":"Pexels","body":"This Valentine's Day we asked couples to share their love languages with us, and in return we'd share some gifts and dates to celebrate with their loved ones. Here are some of our favorites! \n\n## Physical Touch Date Ideas \n\nEmbrace all the possibilities with these 6 ways to share your love through physical touch.\n\n### #1 Try Body Painting\nIn the world of love, everyone’s an artist. What better way to express to your loved ones that they’re priceless than to make them into your very own work of art? Try out this activity on an old sheet at your place that you don’t mind getting body paint on (or another non-toxic water-soluble paint option). \n\n### #2 Give Each Other Massages\nIs there anything more you need to offer? If your partners love language is physical touch, giving them a massage is the ultimate V-day date activity. \nTie in a massage candle, chocolates, and champagne, and you’ll have them melting into the palm ofo your hands.\n\n### #3 Paint Together (With Only One Paintbrush)\nTest your teamwork and spend the night creating your next art piece together. The only catch is, you have to both hold the paintbrush together to get it all done.\n\n### #4 Take a (Virtual) Dance Class\nMove your bodies to the rhythm of your choice when you spend this Valentine’s day learning a new dance together. Sign up for any classes being taught virtually or locally, or look up a quick tutorial and show off your moves.\n\n### #5 Dress Each Other Up (or Down)\nTry this date idea on for size: dig up your wedding outfits (dress, suit, smock, whatever) and reenact your first dance. Maybe this time you can show off a few extra tricks up your sleeve.\n\n### #6 Give Each Other Temporary Tattoos\nAlways loved the idea of a couple's tattoo, but neither of you is ready to get inked? Try testing out temporary tattoos on each other, from the stick-on ones that last a day to those that last for weeks. Use Valentine’s Day as the day you take time to pick out your favorite designs or try your hands at drawing each other’s on.\n\n![jonathan-borba-bE1Nx5RQLx8-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2NK3vxwUeKyvu5pOQHtY6Z/f994132770acbb5478e121677747aa2b/jonathan-borba-bE1Nx5RQLx8-unsplash.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Jonathan Borba\n\n## Acts of Service Date Ideas \n\nKill ‘em with kindness using these 7 ideas that show how much you really care. \n\n### #1 Plan a Staycation\nYou don’t have to venture very far to make some more unforgettable memories together. This Valentine’s day you can plan a trip to the state next door, or even just visit an area of your city you’ve never been to and rent a place for the night.\n\n### #2 Clean Their Car\nNothing says “I love you” quite like that new car smell - or at least a new air freshener plashed on the dash with love. If your date is known for keeping everything but the kitchen sink in their bask seat, consider “running a quick errand” and getting their car cleaned for them this V-day. \n\n### #3 Hire a Babysitter\nYou probably really love your kids, but out of the 365 days they demand your full attention, there’s at least one day you deserve to turn the focus back on you two. HIre a babysitter this Valentine's Day and your partner will be more than grateful.\n\n### #4 Reorganize Their Closet (and Pick out Their Outfit for a Date)\nPerfect date idea for the person who always says they have nothing to wear when you ask them out. Make a night out or organize each other's closets, and maybe discover some old outfits that unlock some memories of your time together.\n\n### #5 Make Their Favorite Meal\nTry your hand at cooking their favorite dish, whether the recipe is yours, or a recreation of how their mom (and their mom’s mom) used to make it for them growing up. \n\n### #6 Host a DIY Spa Session\nBring out the DIY face masks, body scrubs, and essential oils. It’s time to bring the relaxation back into Valentine’s Day. Throw off the weight of expectations of grand gestures, and use the day to help each other unwind together.\n\n### #7 Build Them a Charcuterie Board \nThe great thing about Charcuterie Boards is they can be made up of virtually anything, as long as it’s edible. Fill yours with your partner's favorite food to show that you really do pay attention to them (sometimes).\n\n![pexels-photo-6578915](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5myzMWY8KCEsNo4Ekkts1U/6bbb155646f3ec947b01672106b6db41/pexels-photo-6578915.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Pexels\n\n## Quality Time Date Ideas\n\nValentine’s Day celebrations are always better together, so consider these 6 ways you could be spending time this holiday.\n\n### #1 Host a Baking Competition\nIf you’re a much bigger fan of homemade sweets than flowers and chocolates, throw this date idea into the mix. Perfect for if you two are foodies and always swear you can bake circles around the other, yet never had the chance to prove it. \n### #2 Take a Poetry Class \nA couple that writes poems together, \nGrows together \nTake a poetry class this Valentine's day and it won't be long before you can truly count all the ways you love each other. \n\n### #3 Go to Your Local (Puppy) Cafe\nWhat’s wrong with a little puppy love? V-day is as good as any to spend time together with man’s best friend. If you’re not so lucky as to have a local puppy or animal themes cafe nearby, try out a shop you haven’t been to before and order each other surprise drinks from the menu.\n\n### #4 Watch Valentine’s Day Comedy Show\nWhether you love or hate the day, one thing’s for certain, we can all laugh about it. Check out your local comedy club, or pull up a set from \nyour favorite comedian, and spend the day in love and laughter.\n\n### #5 Go on Relationship Tour\nWhen’s the last time you two have been to the place your first met? Where you had your first date? Your first kiss? If it’s been a while consider planning a trip back down memory lane with a tour to all your first spots.\n\n### #6 Watch Romcoms (And Rate Them)\nTo all the romantic comedies we’ve watched before, Valentine’s Day is your day to shine. Choose either the movies you love or hat to watch together this day, and see how your story measured up to the Hollywood versions.\n\n![pexels-photo-6579013](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/44Dpag2QHymcrZwuggnPFa/da99b25c0664665a8f7a69f4a5f75335/pexels-photo-6579013.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Pexels\n\n## Giving and Receiving Gifts Date Ideas\n\nIf they’ve got to see it to believe it, try getting your loved one of these 7 [gift ideas](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/christmas-gifts-boyfriend) this February.\n\n### #1 Buy and Taste-Test V-day Chocolates Together\nThere’s a lot of fun that can be had with that store-bought box of chocolates. Instead of taking one bite to find out what each piece tastes like, give the second half to your second half and make it a competition! Whoever guest the most flavors correctly wins a special surprise of your choosing.\n\n### #2 Make a Bucket List and Suprise Them With Their #1 Item\nWhether it’s a list of your all-time favorite things or a list of your top 20 travel destinations, gift your partner the object of their dreams and you’ll win this Valentine’s day for sure.\n\n### #3 Try Out a New Subscription Box\nSign up this V-day for the gift that keeps on giving: subscription boxes! Try out food from around the world, books of the month, or a few trinkets that’ll add a little extra spice to your life (if you know what I mean).\n\n### #4 Make Them A Wedding Album (From Your POV)\nYou may already have a gorgeous wedding photo album that you had made or you made together, but use this day to tell your wedding story from your point of view. Throw in photos you took on your phone, plus any thoughts you had while you were waiting for the big reveal. Then gift it to your partner for the ultimate tearjerker. \n\n### #5 Go on a Shopping Spree!\nBudget TBD (by you). If you’re a person who loves the experience of buying gifts for your SO, how about planning a shopping spree where you buy each other’s Valentine’s Day gifts in real-time. Perfect for the person who hates surprises but loves the gifts behind them.\n\n### #6 Make DIY Gifts Together\nGiving gifts is not always about the price tag, it’s the thought that really counts. Try your hand at making some gifts together with items around your house, like a scrapbook, picture frame, or photo wall.\n\n### #7 Give Them Something Dear to Your Heart\nMaybe it’s a high school jersey or piece of jewelry they know holds a special place in your heart. If gifts are your SO’s love language, then sharing something that holds a lot of meaning for you will trump anything you could buy them brand new.\n\n![devin-phaly-G8GyrGiUeVM-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/JUFd20rarGREhLg48eUVY/2ff8ce5714b76e84eef3b9cc085932f8/devin-phaly-G8GyrGiUeVM-unsplash.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n## Words of Affirmation Date Ideas\n\nA picture’s worth a thousand words…but this bunch would much prefer the words. Here are 6 ideas for this love language.\n\n### #1 Write Sweet Notes Tied to Balloon Strings\nLooking to create a scene straight out of a storybook? Plan this romantic gesture by writing down all your favorite memories together and tying them all to helium balloons in your home. That way you SO can reach up and pick those memories out one by one, and surely be left feeling like they’re floating on Cloud 9.\n\n### #2 Sing Love Songs to Each Other at Karaoke \nUse this V-day to sing your heart out to the one you love. You can sing songs that remind you of your times together or just sappy love songs that are kinda cringy, but you love them anyway. The bottom line is you want to share those lyrics with the person who makes you feel like you understand what every love song is talking about.\n\n### #3 Write a Heartwarming Message with Pizza Toppings\nThe ultimate universal love language: pizza. You can’t go wrong with a good slice, even on Valentine’s day. Bake a homemade pizza topped with a special V-day message written out in sauce, cheese, pepperonis, whatever!\n\n### #4 Revisit Your First Date Spot and Reread your Vows\nWe know! A date idea that is as heartwarming as it sounds. A great idea for if you also happen to be celebrating your one-year (or any year) anniversary.\n\n### #5 Create Love Notes With Their Favorite Book\nBuy a second copy of their favorite book first! Then take a pen, marker, or highlighter and find all the words, sentences, and phrases that describe how you feel about them.\n\n### #6 Create Compliment Jars For Each Other\nEveryone could use a reminder of why they’re wonderful every now and then. How about you two spend this Valentine’s Day writing words of affirmation on scraps of paper and filling jars with them to gift each other. That way when you’re not close enough to say them, your loved one can pick some words from the jar that'll bring a smile to their face.\n\n![photo-1513279922550-250c2129b13a-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4QQzwYOP3uvUYZjpgNfYPo/6fcb7918c2dfdc9f79de0eca20f2884f/photo-1513279922550-250c2129b13a-unsplash.jpg)*Photo Credit* // Unsplash","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Is there anything more romantic than Valentine's Day? How about a Valentine's Day wedding? Amp up the romance with these lovely Valentine's Day-inspired wedding tips.","title":"Romantic Valentine's Day-Inspired Wedding Ideas","slug":"romantic-valentines-day-inspired-wedding-ideas","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7jjO4vgkpAV9kAI9tlxwy3/1baa66ba5e26e81d738cbdeffd96363c/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"couple with pink and white flowers"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Thinking of popping the question? Arrange the perfect proposal for your partner with these creative ideas. From romantic to adventurous, there's one for you!","title":"50 Unique Marriage Proposal Ideas [+ Printables]","slug":"proposal-ideas","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6dR1PxiYWKzfOfBhHANhYv/cd70212d7dfbc320706b4488eed2dd13/proposal-ideas-2.jpg","altText":"proposal idea hero image of person holding engagement ring box"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover thoughtful and trending engagement gifts for couples in 2023. Find the perfect way to celebrate their love as they embark on this new journey together.","title":"61 Best Engagement Gift Ideas for Couples in 2024","slug":"engagement-gift-ideas","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/61Z3uDzL5OxvH2XkF6JCVZ/6f13bed22851939d1979e32a91edd763/engagement-gift-ideas-hero.jpg","altText":"couple kissing showing off engagement ring."},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Build Your Zola Registry","url":"https://www.zola.com/onboard/new"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:30.049Z"}],"name":"Dating","slug":"dating","description":"Whether you just started dating and are looking for special birthday gift ideas or have been dating for sometime and need guidance on how to talk about bringing your relationship to the next level. Find practical dating advice for every couple."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Newly engaged couples","slug":"newly-engaged-couples"},"slug":"what-is-engagement-anxiety","title":"What is Engagement Anxiety?","excerpt":"Do you feel like you’re developing engagement anxiety? Learn about the signs and how to treat it with this complete guide.","author":"Shameika Rhymes","publishedAt":"2020-12-22T21:46:13.774Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7KnaGVPKUDDvmgc6ASCFAE/d6ac53204c3dcd6b63dcfa4ae5b33b9d/Hero_OutdoorSpringElopementatRobbinsPreserve_AndreaHarbonePhotography__1_.jpg","altText":"What is Engagement Anxiety"},"heroCredit":"Andrea Harbone Photography","body":"Congratulations, you’re engaged! Feelings of shock and excitement are expected, but one emotion that takes many soon-to-be brides and grooms by surprise is anxiety. Tying the knot is a big step, and let’s face it, preparing for a life change of this magnitude can be overwhelming. The good news: [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) is here to help you along the way.\n\nThe important thing to know is that feeling engagement anxiety is normal—and it’s temporary. “If you don’t have second thoughts about becoming someone’s partner, you’re not human, but they are just second thoughts,” says Dr. Ish Major, dating and relationship expert, and star of WEtv’s “Marriage Boot Camp” series.\n\n## What Is Engagement Anxiety?\n\n“Engagement anxiety is commonly referred to as cold feet, and it’s a common response to the enormous change your life is about to undergo,” explains Sharea Farmer, LCSW, owner of RS Counseling and Wellness. She says couples aren’t just dealing with their emotions, but also the expectations of their family, friends, and societal pressures surrounding a public engagement and marriage. “All of these factors can drive your anxiety through the roof and cause you to question everything, even if you are ready to get married,” she explains. \n\nHow do you know if what you’re feeling is engagement anxiety? “Engagement anxiety feels much more intense than just nervousness or butterflies,” says [Dr. Curtis D. Jasper, Ph.D.](https://www.drcurtisdjasper.com/), therapist, couple’s counselor, and relationship expert. He adds that it’s a common occurrence among newly engaged couples. “Even for those individuals and couples who feel like the engagement is the right step and that the choice of partner is the correct choice, there still will remain a bit of anxiousness that can lead to extreme anxiety—usually about the unknown, the newness, and the grieving of anticipating giving up the current or single lifestyle,” he adds. \n\nThe good news is there are ways to reduce your anxiety levels over time so you can focus on walking down the aisle. Here, some tips from relationship experts on how to handle your pre-engagement anxiety.\n\n#### 1. Be Realistic\n\nIt’s understandable to feel a range of emotions about the big commitment you’re about to make. Experts say it’s crucial to remember that life has its ups and downs—and the same goes for your wedding day. “Have realistic expectations about the wedding, the marriage, and the life you wish to build. Our experiences and expectations around marriage have been shaped by years of conditioning through fairy tales, television, and movies, so we often overlook that this is real and will take real skills to succeed,” says Farmer. Dig deeper to find what could be triggering your anxiety. “Engagements and marriage aren’t about what you’ll be giving up; they’re all about what you’re gaining,” says Dr. Major.\n\n#### 2. Challenge Your Anxiety\n\nEngagement anxiety is common, but it’s still important to acknowledge how you’re feeling. Write down your fears and evaluate how realistic they are, says Farmer. This can help you replace fear-based thoughts with more realistic ones. Dr. Jasper also suggests seeking out a professional to help squash those anxiety-riddled fears. \n\n#### 3. Talk It Out\n\n![What is Engagement Anxiety?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6qZf3pcI007hLQWAhauzml/67fb318c8f77ac417b68ef12b9f71dff/Inline_unsplash__31_.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nCouples tend to keep those second thoughts from their other half, as they don’t want to have their feelings taken out of context. But part of a healthy and happy relationship is being able, to be honest with your partner, especially if you are experiencing higher anxiety levels. Keep the lines of communication open with your fiancé. Communicating your feelings and sharing your emotions may help you deal with them as a couple rather than having to handle it alone.\n\n__Expert Tip: Use “I” statements and avoid blaming language, global statements, and talking with increased emotions. Start slowly to avoid arguments.__\n\n#### 4. Take Care of Yourself\nSelf-care is important when you’re dealing with an overwhelming amount of stress and anxiety. Farmer suggests practicing self-care, including meditating or breathing techniques, to help calm those nerves down. “Do the things that you love with the person you love. Whether it’s your partner or spending some time alone, do what is necessary to ground yourself,” says Farmer. \n\n#### 5. Find a Premarital Counselor\n\n![What is Engagement Anxiety?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/63nK6wnqEdcsAmhHZbAbjq/41875a2d9f384cd6d75de74984b31e8d/Inline_unsplash__29_.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nTalking to family and friends may not be such a good thing. “Many will be quick to tell you their worst experiences and these can easily shape your thoughts,” says Farmer. Seeing a professional for premarital counseling with your partner can also ease your engagement anxiety. “Find an unbiased, experienced professional to ensure you and your partner are on the same page and speaking on the issues out loud under the leadership of someone with training. You may be surprised to learn that your partner is feeling some of the same anxiety you're feeling,” she says. \nIf you’re experiencing pre-engagement anxiety, know that it’s normal and will subside. To help you enjoy the process of your engagement and wedding planning, [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) is here for you. For more tips on how to get started on [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding), click [here](https://www.zola.com/).\n","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Getting ready to walk down the aisle? Review this top advice for engaged couples before saying your “I dos!” Read on now.","title":"8 Top Advice for Engaged Couples Before Tying the Knot","slug":"top-advice-for-engaged-couples","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5E0cadqtqJvlQoTAphPWQj/4baf2c26099e5d919932c4d204e95830/Hero_Modern_RomanticNavyStyledShoot_KristinaKarinaPhotography.jpg","altText":"Top Advice for Engaged Couples"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Today’s couples are craving experiences instead of gifts. Our date ideas are fabulous to add to your wedding registry to make memories with your love.","title":"12 Fabulous Date Ideas to Put on Your Registry","slug":"12-fabulous-date-ideas-to-put-on-your-registry","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5XFbyLUjyLaqT7gm3RrHDI/8a01b731d6339621e591c9e2915835bd/hannah-busing-zhDREn4OqY8-unsplash.jpg","altText":"Date Ideas to Put on Your Registry"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:52:27.823Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Newly engaged couples","slug":"newly-engaged-couples"},"slug":"parents-and-fiance-dont-get-along","title":"5 Reasons Your Parents and Fiancé Don't Get Along—and How to Deal","excerpt":"There are many common reasons your parents many not like your fiancé. Licensed therapists share what to do and how to talk about it when your parents and partner don't get along.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2019-12-19T19:59:14.947Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5Tlmlny0gut2tGN3YKWOnA/609bf1855ee4ea250a587cd926039832/SPECIAL_HERO_MonnettePhotography_1080x720_Ashleigh_Drew.jpg","altText":"couple with partner and parents who don't get along"},"heroCredit":"Monnette Photography","body":"Fresh off an engagement, many couples grab their phones to [call their families](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-announce-your-engagement), namely their parents or any parent-like figures. However, for some couples, that call can cause some tension. If your parents don’t like or get along with your fiancé, an engagement can cause as much stress as it may excitement. \n\nIf there’s turmoil between your parents and your partner, you may be feeling a little lost. To help you out, we talked to licensed relationship therapists for their advice on how to approach—and hopefully, amend—these relationships. Here, we’re breaking it down by common reasons for disagreements between parents and partners.\n\n## Your partner is a different race or religion.\nObviously, disagreements involving race, religion, or other lifestyle differences vary greatly from family to family. However, according to [Aimee Hartstein](http://www.aimeehartstein.com/), LCSW, a relationship therapist, these conflicts can come from the same place. Therefore, they can be approached similarly. \n\n“Your parents may have expected you to marry someone who is of the same background as they are and may be sad, confused, enraged, or disappointed that you’ve made a very different life decision,” she says. This can extend to worries about how you may raise your future children (their grandchildren). It’s a touchy and sensitive topic for everyone involved. However, that doesn’t mean there’s room to compromise. \n\n__How to Deal:__ If your parent or parents are disapproving, have a direct conversation with them, excluding your fiancé. Confront them about their judgments and fears while standing your ground. If they’re less strict and more so hopeful in their wants you for, there may be room for them to alter or update their perspective and form a good relationship with your to-be spouse. \n\nIf your parents still don’t approve, Hartstein recommends putting space between them and yourself. “Let them know that you need them to accept you, your partner, and your life choices,” she affirms.\n\n![INLINE GiannasPhotography 1080x720 Hanna&Nicole](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4jL0GZAxY74ajBmhDHFiv3/5effde16e3baa9017ea093d999f0869f/INLINE_GiannasPhotography_1080x720_Hanna_Nicole.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Gianna's Photography\n\n## Your parents and partner never got along.\nWhether the tension stems from a specific incident or is simply a result of clashing personalities, it’s possible your partner and parents just never clicked. If it’s a long-standing fued of sorts, you may already be prepared for some backlash. You may feel like there’s nothing you can do about it. However, it’s not necessarily too late. \n\n__How to Deal:__ There are a few ways to approach the situation, depending on what caused the rift.\n- *__If your fiancé is in the wrong:__* “If something or several things happen where say your fiancé rubbed someone the wrong way, I would recommend having your fiancé directly communicate with the parent,” says Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist, [Dr. Alisa Ruby Bash](http://m.alisarubybash.com/). “Having them step forward and say, I love your child and I want to work through this and I’m sorry if I offended you can be really effective.” \n- *__If your parents are in the wrong:__* Ask them to put in the effort to make amends and get past a certain occurrence that can promote healing. “If it’s more personality-based, it’s a little more challenging,” Dr. Bash admits. “The important thing is that, while someone may not fully like the other person, they’re going to have to learn to live with them.”\n\nIn this case, speaking to your parents or fiancé and letting them know that their effort to try to get along means a lot to you—it can be a great motivator. “You can make those attempts and sometimes things can be resolved. People can get past things and healing can definitely take place,” Dr. Bash says.\n\nHowever, if there’s a lot of arguing or the disagreement spans a long time, therapy (individual, [couple’s](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-talk-about-marriage-when-dating), or family) can be an extremely useful tool.\n\n## Your fiancé has been disrespectful.\nFor whatever reason, your fiancé may be the source of tension between them and your parents. This is, frankly, unacceptable, especially if the disrespect stems from nothing other than your partner being difficult. “Unless your parents are incredibly rude or alienating to your partner, there’s no reason for [him or her] to be disrespectful,” Hartstein says. \n\nIn fact, if the person you love isn’t willing to be respectful towards your family, it could be a bad sign for the relationship. “It’s concerning if you have a partner who you can’t trust to get along with your friends, family, and the general population at large,” Hartstein says. “I recommend trying to nip this in the bud with direct discussion as soon as possible.”\n\n__How to Deal:__ The sooner you confront your partner about their behavior, the better. If you avoid confrontation and just hope for eventual improvement, it’s likely that you’ll harbor major resentment towards them in the future.\n\n## My parents still like my ex.\nWhile it may feel like a betrayal, it’s understandable if your parents still have fond feelings [for your ex](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/invite-ex-to-wedding). If they feel this way, chances are they spent considerable time with them and formed a positive relationship. Nothing about this is abnormal or malicious. It shouldn’t, however, in any way influence their relationship or opinion of your fiancé. \n\n“It’s fine that your parents like and perhaps miss your ex, but it’s your life and your decision. You have good reasons that you’re no longer with them and have committed to a new partner,” Hartstein says.\n\n__How to Deal:__ In this case, you’ll want to speak with your parents without your partner, in order to avoid any awkwardness or putting anyone on the spot. Be considerate of your parents’ feelings while also taking Hartstein’s advice and being direct. Let them know it’d mean a lot to you if they attempted to form new bonds with your new partner.\n\n![INLINE NightingalePhotography 1080x720 Zoe&Earl](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/59Hm5stxwjmdk7f9Kjfy3T/302e92c031c7f142654eb4361be7b23b/INLINE_NightingalePhotography_1080x720_Zoe_Earl.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Nightingale Photography\n\n## My partner and parents aren’t close enough. \nWhether the relationship is new or your parents simply haven’t had a lot of time to bond with your partner, this problem isn’t super uncommon. Simply put, your parents may feel as though they don’t have a good idea of who your fiancé is—and how he or she may treat you. Perhaps they haven’t been able to form any sort of relationship with them, due to shyness on either side, a lack of effort, or even your geographical location.\n\n__How to Deal:__ Naturally, the best thing to do is make an effort to have your parents and fiancé spend some time together. If you’re able to, make plans for all of you to do something as a group. Go [wedding venue scouting](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue) then go out to lunch. Invite them over for dinner or offer to cook at their place. Chances are they simply want to feel important and involved.\n\nIf your fiancé is shy, ask them what they’d be comfortable doing before setting any plans. Also, avoid inviting other family members or friends since that can be distracting and defeat the purpose.\n\nIf you live far from your parents, take Dr. Bash’s advice: “In a situation where you’re maybe living in another country and it’s hard to plan a trip or meet in person—maybe someone is deployed and can’t come back—at least try to do a FaceTime call or something similar.”\n\nJust making your parents feel that they’re important, that you want their approval, and that you’re making that effort will a long way, she adds.\n\n## What To Do When There’s No Resolution\nIt’s a sad result to consider, but it’s possible that your partner and parents won’t end up making amends. Certain opinions and incidents may run too deep. It’s crucial, in this case, to recognize that this is an emotionally charged situation and allow yourself to feel sad about it.\n\n“Sometimes we have these ideas of harmonious relationships and how we want things to go and that doesn’t happen,” Dr. Bash says. “[You] have to mourn not being able to have the type of bigger family relationship we might’ve wanted, while still going ahead and marrying your partner.” \n\nAfter any type of fallout, don’t be afraid to lean on a loved one (your partner, especially) and speak to a professional. Voicing your thoughts and feelings can be instrumental in allowing you to heal and feel better.\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You're engaged! Now it's time to tell people. Here are the best ways to make an engagement announcement that works for you. ","title":"How to Announce Your Engagement","slug":"how-to-announce-your-engagement","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3hk4Xt2gcurIwwAACqfcxh/52d16b9f41ed4c4e63d6f316dcb0379d/How-to-Announce-your-Engagement.jpg","altText":"Couple makes engagement announcement"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Getting engaged at the same time as your best friend can be exciting—and tricky. Here's how to manage expectations and be there for your friend as you plan your own wedding.","title":"How to Be Engaged at the Same Time As Your Best Friend","slug":"engaged-same-time-as-best-friend","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Rc2R8CnYBAvDUljxL9qk2/431a71cd2fa527552615df47b88f9de0/HERO_PexelsAsyaCusima_1080x720.jpg","altText":"friends engaged at the same time"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Not every couple's families have the opportunity to meet before the engagement. Here's how to gracefully introduce your families post-engagement.","title":"How To Introduce Your Families Post-Engagement","slug":"introduce-families-after-engagement","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/A54vpDACwsNVuKhv8nejf/778b4b0d4d17b09384b2f113a7177968/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"engaged couple's families meet for the first time"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Getting engaged marks an exciting change in a couple’s life, but it can also alter friendships. Here, an expert shares how to deal when friends treat you differently after you get engaged.","title":"My Friends Treat Me Differently Now That I'm Engaged","slug":"friends-treat-differently-now-im-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PtdSvTII7B9l0XrlWcJ6T/86cd148235fab4de4fe699d54142a31b/My-Friends-Treat-Me-Differently-Now-That-I-m-Engaged.jpg","altText":"friends talking after wedding engagement"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Follow these step-by-step instructions for how to plan an engagement party to achieve guaranteed hosting success. ","title":"The Ultimate Guide to Plan an Engagement Party","slug":"how-to-plan-an-engagement-party","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6gsqs04WfHnnZR5YSUGvch/ac4778019adadb17d985dc84e1ef3aff/Brand_Book_Yeti_03.jpg","altText":"Yeti cooler filled with bottles of sparkling rose wine and glasses filled with wine in the background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Want to find out where your partner stands on marriage, but not sure how to broach the subject? Read on to find how and when to talk about marriage when dating.","title":"How to Talk About Marriage When Dating","slug":"how-to-talk-about-marriage-when-dating","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XxX5CB6Xz06uYVX1pkihD/8363ec8437cf3a9816750c0a772ef8fb/Hero_TraditionalNuptialsinMiami_InfiniteLoopPhotography_Films.jpg","altText":"Talk About Marriage When Dating"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:52:28.460Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Newly engaged couples","slug":"newly-engaged-couples"},"slug":"introduce-families-after-engagement","title":"How To Introduce Your Families Post-Engagement","excerpt":"Not every couple's families have the opportunity to meet before the engagement. Here's how to gracefully introduce your families post-engagement.","author":"Deanna deBara","publishedAt":"2019-09-13T14:37:46.353Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/A54vpDACwsNVuKhv8nejf/778b4b0d4d17b09384b2f113a7177968/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"engaged couple's families meet for the first time"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","body":"When it comes to families, every couple is different. By the time some couples get engaged, their respective families have already met and spent plenty of time together. On the flip side, the post-engagement period might be the first time both families have the opportunity to meet and get to know each other.\n\nIf you’re recently engaged and have yet to introduce your family to your partner’s family, the thought of bringing everyone together can be stressful. As with so many wedding planning things, though, it doesn’t have to be. Here’s some advice on how to introduce your families after the engagement and how to help it all go smoothly.\n\n## Make the introductions as soon as possible.\nWhen you get engaged, take as much time as you want (and need!) to bask in your post-engagement bliss. Once you’re ready to get started on wedding planning, though, one of the first tasks to tackle should include introducing your families.\n\nIn an ideal world, the sooner you can introduce your family and your partner’s family, the better. This gives everyone more time to get to know each other before the wedding. Plus, the sooner you make the introductions, the easier it is to include everyone—regardless of which family they come from—in the wedding planning process.\n\n![INLINE Unsplash 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XF7sL7nm3rci47VtXZ5D/82fc09cd98e0cf86b1345c766eda88dc/INLINE__Unsplash_1080x720.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n## Keep the introductions casual.\nGetting engaged and planning a wedding is already an emotionally charged time. It’s true for you, it’s true for your partner, and it’s true for both of your families. So, you don’t want to add any unnecessary pressure to introducing your families by attaching the introduction to a pinnacle event. If possible, keep the meeting as light, casual, and laid-back as possible.\n\nFor example, instead of introducing your mother and soon-to-be mother-in-law on the day you go [wedding dress shopping](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/who-should-i-invite-wedding-dress-shopping), schedule a low-key brunch a few weeks before the event so they can get acquainted in a more casual setting. Instead of inviting both families to help you [choose a wedding location](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), invite them to your house for a casual BBQ so they can get to know each other before you jump right into the wedding planning world.\n\nKeep it low-pressure and laid back. This will make the process much less stressful for you and your spouse.\n\n## If an in-person introduction isn’t possible, schedule a digital intro.\nDistance might prevent you from bringing you and your partner’s families together before the wedding—but that doesn’t mean you should skip the introduction!\n\nIf an in-person intro isn’t possible, schedule a digital get-together with you, your spouse, and your respective families. Video conferencing tools like Google Hangouts, Zoom, or even Facetime make it easy for you and any of your far-flung family members to get together in the same digital space and meet face-to-face—at least through a screen—before the big day.\n\n## Give both families jobs that bring them together.\nIf you really want your family and your partner’s family to bond before the wedding, give them a common, wedding-related goal to work toward.\n\nFor example, put your sibling and your partner’s sibling in charge of the decorations for the [engagement party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-an-engagement-party). They can even discuss [engagement party ideas](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/engagement-party-ideas) digitally over email and Facetime if distance is a factor. If proximity isn’t an issue, ask your father and your soon-to-be father-in-law to scout locations for your post-wedding brunch. \n\nThe point is, bringing both families to work on wedding projects is a win-win situation. Your families get to spend time together and get to know each other—and you get to check things off of your wedding planning checklist. \n\n![INLINE Unsplash 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/LzsGUE5gBEtbKvzB0ljct/c0cd08f29827171bf4d1b937ce6ae892/INLINE_Unsplash_1080x720.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n## Carve out time right before the wedding.\nHopefully, by the time your wedding rolls around, your family and your partner’s family have had the opportunity to get to know each other better—even just a little. Regardless, we recommend finding time in the days leading up to the wedding to bring them together again (or for the first time). This should be a time that’s separate from your [wedding weekend](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/plan-wedding-weekend) events. It doesn’t have to be formal. Get together for dinner or even spend a night together by the hotel bar catching up. Coming together as a family unit ahead of the ceremony is a perfect send-off.\n\nRemember, your wedding is a huge deal for both you and your partner’s families—and they both want to be involved and spend as much time with you as possible. Everyone’s families are different. Whether they meet in person or digitally, there’s a solution to introduce your families after the engagement in a stress-free way.\n","tag":"How To","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Discover the 60 best bachelorette party themes of 2024 with ideas for activities, drinks, and food. Find the perfect party for every bride!","title":"60 Best Bachelorette Party Themes of 2024","slug":"bachelorette-party-themes","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/33vA9FilPkEXnDkMjTkg5F/e698249214e8c6ce0673ab8fbee59392/pexels-yuliia-auer-5303406.jpg","altText":"Bachelorette Party Themes & Party Names"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Need inspiration for your wedding hashtag? Here's a complete guide to designing a wedding hashtag perfect for your big day.","title":"9 Easy Ways to Create Your Wedding Hashtag","slug":"9-easy-ways-to-create-your-wedding-hashtag","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/23UVWEQPhMa4e3bqlKEXQj/30624e2537f56014b66d9109d45a464f/Hero_New__1_.jpg","altText":"couple with wedding hashtag"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You're engaged! Now it's time to tell people. Here are the best ways to make an engagement announcement that works for you. ","title":"How to Announce Your Engagement","slug":"how-to-announce-your-engagement","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3hk4Xt2gcurIwwAACqfcxh/52d16b9f41ed4c4e63d6f316dcb0379d/How-to-Announce-your-Engagement.jpg","altText":"Couple makes engagement announcement"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"It’s not uncommon for a wedding photographer to include an engagement photo session in their packages. Here's how to make the most of those photos.\n","title":"12 Ways to Get The Most Out of Your Engagement Photos","slug":"how-to-get-most-out-of-your-engagement-photos","topic":"Getting engaged","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4DEuaFrXVcKgYHHKzYTPMa/ce4ad8cb1fd645069d15c4af106f045b/ErinJacksonPhotog.jpg","altText":"table with decoration pieces and Engagement Photo frame"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Follow these step-by-step instructions for how to plan an engagement party to achieve guaranteed hosting success. ","title":"The Ultimate Guide to Plan an Engagement Party","slug":"how-to-plan-an-engagement-party","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6gsqs04WfHnnZR5YSUGvch/ac4778019adadb17d985dc84e1ef3aff/Brand_Book_Yeti_03.jpg","altText":"Yeti cooler filled with bottles of sparkling rose wine and glasses filled with wine in the background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"If you don't like your engagement ring, don't panic. Here are nine tips for how to deal without hurting your partner's feelings.\n","title":"So, You Don't Like Your Engagement Ring—Here's What to Do","slug":"dont-like-engagement-ring","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/MS3dyElvqDAW4HZGjlULM/4cd4f592a1faaf3f23b1a68d2f74a294/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"woman hugs partner after engagement "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Find the wedding dress of your dreams with our round-up of the 8 best tips for wedding dress shopping—from who to bring to how to budget.","title":"13 Tips for Choosing Your Dream Wedding Dress","slug":"tips-wedding-dress-shopping","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7w7Us4gIAHlYiyGjGaDPIS/ecb32dd773cf661b54727b71f4ad2ec2/Pinehurst_Photography_HeroImage_1080x720.jpg","altText":"bride wedding dress shopping"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Social media has turned weddings from guest-only experiences to larger broadcasts for loved ones (or wedding-loving strangers). Here's how to incorporate various social channels into your wedding—in a tactful way.","title":"9 Savvy Ways to Use Social Media at Your Wedding","slug":"9-savvy-ways-to-use-social-media-at-your-wedding","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6YRX2YvzFDDeaWpHeKQpCp/50c02c930685ce9d76a308197e574702/AliceMaliaPhotography_HeroImage_1080x720.jpg","altText":"social media wedding hashtag sign"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:52:29.747Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Newly engaged couples","slug":"newly-engaged-couples"},"slug":"how-to-combine-your-things-and-move-in-together","title":"How to Combine Your Things and Move In Together","excerpt":"Moving in with your SO? Here's how to combine your things and move in together—free of fighting, stress, or giving up your favorite stuff.\n","author":"Ruksana Hussain","publishedAt":"2019-07-12T14:49:13.201Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6WgkSw4Pnjathj7alsusn2/e7a324622168f05a0d343a8778eaabee/How-to-Combine-your-Things-and-Move-in-Together.jpg","altText":"men combine things and move in together"},"heroCredit":"Zola","body":"Getting married is signing up to share your life with your partner. While parts of the whole “sharing your life” thing are symbolic, others are real and quite tangible—namely moving in together.\n\nIf you don’t already live together, moving in together is the start of [planning your future as newlyweds](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding-on-a-budget). And it’s no small feat. After all, you’re literally coming together to share your lives and your living space—and all the kitchen utensils, throw pillows, and electronics that go with it.\n\nIt doesn’t have to be stressful, though, even if you’re both bursting with home goods. Here’s how to combine your things and move in together as simply as possible. \n\n## Take inventory of your stuff…\nFirst things first, you need to take stock of what you both have. Chances are you both have a lot of the same things. It’s a waste of time to pack and move two sets of anything you don’t need two sets of. Take an inventory of everything in your current living space and have your partner do the same. \n\nThen, get together, compare lists, and look for opportunities to either sell or donate duplicate items you won’t need now that you’re moving in together. Here are a few examples of larger items you both might have:\n- [Kitchen appliances](https://homestore.zola.com/shop/category/kitchen) (microwave, Instant Pot, Crock-Pot, Toaster)\n- [Large Electronics](https://homestore.zola.com/shop/category/electronics-and-gadgets) (television, desktop computer, sound system/speakers)\n- [Lighting](https://homestore.zola.com/shop/category/lighting)\n- [Large Furniture](https://homestore.zola.com/shop/category/furniture) (couch, recliner, end tables, dining table and chairs)\n- [Decorative Items](https://homestore.zola.com/shop/category/decor) (bar cart, small and large rugs, planters)\n\nYou don’t want to start your new life in your new space bogged down by too much stuff—plus, again, why move all that extra stuff anyway? (Bonus: this is also a great way to figure out [what to add to your registry](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-registry-checklist) if you're not already married!)\n\nNow, there might be some duplicate items that you want to keep—and that’s totally fine! For example, if you and your SO both have TVs, you might want to keep them both. Use one in your new bedroom and one in the living room or another common space. Just make sure that you’re actually going to use both items.\n\n![Zola Inlineimage 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Aqhlpxai2P9p1AvoMNnkx/dbc28564643608b124cb1553e17985a5/Zola_Inlineimage_1080x720.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Zola\n\n## ...and of your space.\nBefore you move in together, you and your SO have to take inventory of your stuff—but you also need to take inventory of your space. There’s a limit to how much stuff can fit into any space. So before you decide who is bringing what, it’s important to evaluate your new home and figure out what there’s actually room for—and what items might need to be left behind.\n\nFor example, you might love your king-sized bed, but if your new bedroom is smaller than your current digs, bring your partner’s queen. Then, sell or donate your mattress and bed frame. Once you know how much room you’re working with, choose the items that make the most sense within the space.\n\n### How to Decide Between Duplicates\nOne of the challenges of combining stuff is deciding whose stuff stays and whose goes. Some items will prove easy to decide between, but others not so much. When the answer’s not clear, consider the following:\n\n- __Size:__ Which item is going to fit best in your space and with your other furniture? Bigger isn’t always better.\n- __Condition:__ Is one item newer than the other? Is one more dinged up than the other? A newer appliance may last longer than a well-loved one. \n- __Quality:__ Is one of the items a higher-quality brand or known to last longer than the other brand? Take the nicer knives.\n\n![Zola InlineImage 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7iAEqrHK58sKTFUEEfXoSH/3afed75740d7e58b5728e482b9aa4def/Zola_InlineImage_1080x720_.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Zola\n\n## Make space for each other.\nA new home is an opportunity for both of you to make it your own. However, if one of you is moving into the other’s space, it can be a bit more challenging for you both to claim ownership. So, make space for each other.\n\nIf your SO is moving into your place, make sure you put in the extra effort to make them feel at home—and let them know that it’s no longer “your” place, but “our” place. Clear out space in the closet. Swap out some of your furniture so your SO has room to bring some of their own pieces. Rearrange your layout together so you both have a sense of ownership of the space. If you’re the one making the move into your partner’s home, ask for those same things. \n\nThe most important thing is to make sure you both feel at home—regardless of who’s home it was first.\n\n## Prepare to compromise.\nNo matter how in sync you and your partner are, there’s going to be at least an item or two in each of your respective homes that the other isn’t thrilled about. Enter: compromise.\n\nEveryone has things they love or attach sentimental value to. So, you and your partner both need to be willing to compromise on at least a few of those things for each other. For example, you might not love comic books, but if your partner has been collecting comics since they were a kid, it’s important to make space in your new home for them to display their collection (it doesn’t have to be the living room).\n\nCompromise is part of any happy, healthy marriage—and if you can compromise with your partner on the items that are meaningful to them (even if those items mean nothing to you), it will make the process of combining your things and moving in together a lot smoother.\n\n## Take a break.\nNo matter how excited you are to be moving in together, it’s a stressful process. So, take regular breaks. If you find yourself growing agitated when your SO takes up too much closet space or your partner seems snappier than usual, press pause and do something else. \n\nHit your favorite spot for dinner, go for a walk, or find another way to take a breather and disconnect. The point is, moving is inherently taxing. If you don’t want the stress to feel overwhelming, it’s important to step away every once in a while and spend some time with your partner (away from all the boxes that still need to be packed/unpacked).\n\n## Happy moving!\nCombining your things and moving in together can be tricky. Employ these tips and try your best to stay calm and composed. You’ll be happily moved, the perfect amount of stuff in tow, before you know it.\n","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:52:32.061Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Newly engaged couples","slug":"newly-engaged-couples"},"slug":"changing-your-name","title":" What No One Tells You About Changing Your Name","excerpt":"Planning a wedding leads to a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, you’re filled with excitement, about to marry the love of your life surrounded by your friends and family. On the other hand, you’ve never been so stressed trying to balance finding invitations with cake tastings, dress fittings and a million other details.\n","publishedAt":"2019-04-23T18:53:48.210Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5b3vTxyYWsCHboaWqTwACy/415a598b61697f6478a6d48e7f410c94/4031118.jpg","altText":"Newlyweds Holding Hands changing name surname"},"heroCredit":" Erin L. Taylor Photography","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/erin-l-taylor-photography","body":"---\n*__Content by our partners at Née Name Change. We may earn compensation if you click the link or button below.__*\n\n---\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"sponsorCta":{"copy":"Get Started","url":"https://www.zola.com/shop/brand/nee-name-change"},"sponsorName":"Née Name Change","sponsorAbout":"It's simple. You want the name change without the hassle, without a headache, and let's face it, without the wait. We get it; you got better things to do than wait in a line for hours and fill out countless (and probably outdated) applications. Here at Née Name Change, we want you to rest assured. We've got you covered! Simply provide us with your basic information, and we provide the rest. The future of name change has evolved, and we're here to prove to you just how easy it can be. \n\nWith Née Name Change you can now change your name online, instead of in-line!\n","sponsoredBottomContent":"Planning a wedding leads to a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, you’re filled with excitement, about to marry the love of your life surrounded by your friends and family. On the other hand, you’ve never been so stressed trying to balance finding invitations with cake tastings, dress fittings and a million other details.\n\nThe last thing you want to do is spend hours filling out paperwork and on the phone informing dozens of entities about your [name change after marriage](https://zola.com/expert-advice/name-change-after-marriage). However, if you go about this process the old-fashioned way, that’s exactly what you’ll end up doing. Here’s what no one tells you about changing your name (and how to avoid this process altogether… hint hint [Née Name Change](https://www.zola.com/shop/brand/nee-name-change)\n\n## YOU HAVE OPTIONS\nBefore you start the process, you need to decide what name you’ll take. Changing your name doesn’t necessarily mean dropping your last name and replacing it with your soon to be husbands. Although that’s pretty common, more brides are choosing alternative methods, that are better suited for their personal or professional needs.\nIn most states, men and women can legally change their last name to their new spouse’s last name, hyphenate their two last names, or even create an entirely new name with a combination of both of their last names. #Trendy\n\n## NOT JUST A ONE-STOP-SHOP\nJust like when you and your friends head to a bottomless mimosa brunch, it’s important to remind yourself that this is a marathon, not a sprint. It can get pretty overwhelming with all the different paperwork and places you have to notify. The process itself is time-consuming and requires a lot of patience. You have to prepare to spend a good amount checking off all the boxes before completing your name change.\n\n## YOU HAVE TO TELL EVERYONE… WE MEAN EVERYONE\nYou don’t realize how important your name is until you change it. When you do enter this process, you need to notify the Social Security Administration, the IRS and the DMV for your new paperwork and license. You will also need to inform banks, credit card companies, and utility companies. Any documentation- like your passport- will also need to be updated.\n\nYou’ll need to get new checks, notify the post office, and update your medical records and insurance. If you have legal documents like a will or trust, you’ll want to look into changing them as well. Employers as well as friends and family members, should also be notified. *Insert deep breath here*\n\n## WHAT TO DO ABOUT KIDS…\nIf you are not married yet and you’re having a child, the baby will automatically take the mother’s last name unless you as parents request otherwise. If you are travelling alone with children whose last name doesn’t match your own, you might have to provide a notarized letter saying that the child is indeed yours.\nHaving a different last name than your child can make it difficult not just while travelling, but when it comes to doctor’s appointments and schooling.\n\n## THERE’S GOOD NEWS\nFeeling overwhelmed yet? The good news is you’ve come to the right place. At [Née Name Change](https://www.zola.com/shop/brand/nee-name-change), our goal is to simplify this process for you, so you can focus on more important things like bonding with your (not so warm and fuzzy) mother-in-law.\nWith our help, you won’t need to worry about where to start. We take care of gathering which forms you’ll need, showing you how to fill them out, and submitting applications. You can thank us later.\n","sponsorLogoImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3OiDHetvmksiT1f9MOlzRf/d20beff46b642b93b02a57f9411f3d4a/1.png","altText":"Née Name Change"},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-11-22T19:03:03.574Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Newly engaged couples","slug":"newly-engaged-couples"},"slug":"top-advice-for-engaged-couples","title":"8 Top Advice for Engaged Couples Before Tying the Knot","excerpt":"Getting ready to walk down the aisle? Review this top advice for engaged couples before saying your “I dos!” Read on now.","author":"Jennifer Prince","publishedAt":"2020-12-22T21:42:30.882Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5E0cadqtqJvlQoTAphPWQj/4baf2c26099e5d919932c4d204e95830/Hero_Modern_RomanticNavyStyledShoot_KristinaKarinaPhotography.jpg","altText":"Top Advice for Engaged Couples"},"heroCredit":"Kristina Karina Photography","body":"The question has been asked, celebrations have been had, and now that you are officially an engaged couple, what happens next? __[Planning the wedding](https://zola.app.link/bVto6waeI7)__ is one of the most important things, of course. But there’s still a lot of work to do before you walk down the aisle, and __[Zola](https://zola.app.link/7cWRVj2fK7)__ is here to offer the best advice. Before you spend the rest of your life together, there are lots of steps as you start planning.\n\nMany couples crave [relationship advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-5-most-important-things-in-a-relationship) for engaged couples to help them before starting to figure out the little things, such as color schemes and themes. Seeking pre-marriage advice is smart and can really help your relationship in the long term. It’s important to enjoy your engagement season before you say I do and become newlyweds. \n\nThese [pieces of advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/to-dos-after-you-get-engaged) will help ease the stress of being engaged and help relieve any engagement anxiety. After all, this is a time for you to enjoy that shouldn’t cause extra stress in your already busy lives. Here are Zola’s tips on pre-wedding advice to set your [engagement period](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-10-things-to-do-when-planning-a-wedding) up for the highest success.\n\n## 1. Enjoy Being Engaged First\n\n![Top Advice for Engaged Couples SR](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4aXQVUWHa9d7Wx6Rlov4lL/507b92b91f9c0d71a21bd0c3bfaa4786/Inline_unsplash__33_.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nPlanning a wedding can be exciting, and wanting to jump on social media to shout, “I’m engaged!” is understandable, but hold off. Enjoy being engaged for a little bit, because this is such a special time—you’ll want to remember and cherish every moment. It may also be one of the most challenging times that you face as a couple. Give yourselves time to dream and bask in the glow of taking that next step to a happy engagement.\n\n## 2. Make Time for the Big Conversations\n\nIt’s time for the tough conversations of what you want the wedding to look like before you jump feet first into planning. It won’t be the easiest conversation, but you’ll want to discuss the following as the foundation for wedding planning.\n\n- __Creating a Budget:__ How much can you comfortably afford to spend? Money can be a tension trigger, and Zola is here to help you find practical ways to save money and create a __[wedding budget](https://zola.app.link/cdPFiDyN71)__. “Plan with a firm budget in mind, and have real conversations about what the wedding looks like for the two of you,” says Sharea Farmer, LCSW, owner of RS Counseling and Wellness. Creating a budget also gives you a long-term vision. “Have an honest discussion surrounding feelings of money and a budget. Make sure it’s a collaborative effort, not just left in the hands of the person who’s ‘better with money.’ This way there’s no room for confusion about what the expectation is for budgeting as a family. Talk about having joint accounts, separate accounts, and even a savings plan. How will you make the final decision on large money purchases like a home, cars, and even the wedding?” says Farmer. \n\n- __Wedding Size:__ How many guests are you planning to invite for your big day? This is also the time to figure out who will be at the wedding party. “Ensure that you’re creating the wedding for you and not trying to have a fantasy wedding for family, friends, or social media,” says Farmer.\n\n- __Location:__ Will it be a destination wedding or something local? Finding a place that embodies both of you will be key in finding a __[wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues)__ you agree on.\n\n## 3. Don’t Spend All Your Time Planning\nBeing engaged is a magical time in your life, so don’t let it get consumed by wedding talk and stress. You’re preparing to marry, so your engagement should be about being in love and gearing up to start a new journey together. Set aside time when no wedding talk is allowed. The only rule is to focus on your relationship and not the wedding. There will be plenty of time to plan with your future spouse, plus you reduce the risk of being stressed and overwhelmed before your wedding day.\n\n## 4. Schedule Date Nights\nWhile you’re busy preparing for the big day, it’s still important to carve out time to date each other and have some fun. Stress and tension can get the best of you, so schedule a date night with your sweetie before it happens.\n\nFarmer says even after you do tie the knot, it’s important to keep the spark lit by continuing to date each other. “Always make time for the partnership, even as the family grows and evolves. There will be new responsibilities and new stressors, but the foundation must remain intact, and that comes with continuing to date one another and learning who you are at each stage in life,” she explains.\n\nStart practicing the commitment to prioritize dating, whether it’s through dinner dates, vacations, or even home dates, says Dr. Curtis D. Jasper, Ph.D., a therapist and couple’s counselor. “Dating helps couples increase and a strong affinity for one another, as well as chemistry for one another,” says Jasper. \n\n## 5. Get Pre-Marital Counseling\nCommunication is key in any relationship, but especially crucial for engaged couples. Farmer says that part of the pre-marital counseling process should be continuing the conversation about big life-changing moments, including where to live, financial expectations, and expanding your family with kids and pets. She says the keys to healthy communication with your future spouse include:\n\n- __Allow Yourself to Be Vulnerable:__ Farmer says this means being clear in what it is that you need and want because your partner is not a mind reader. Farmer suggests learning how to exit the conversation without being abusive if it gets heated. “Successful partners know how to leave an argument and allow cooler heads to prevail.”\n- __Use “I” Statements:__ Discussions aren’t about being right, but instead, it’s about doing what’s right for your relationship as a married couple. Consider “we” instead of “I.”\n- __Complete Conversations:__ Always complete what you’re attempting to communicate. “It doesn’t always happen in one conversation, but see it all the way through,” says Farmer. \n- __Celebrate the Good Out Loud:__ Remind each other why you fell for each other. Affirm and uplift each other often. \n\n## 6. Decide To Do or Not Do It for Instagram\n\n![Top Advice for Engaged Couples SR](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/OCllgL2QGABMVnsqMja5Y/816b8794714e39fe773cdc5244b15b46/Inline_unsplash__34_.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nIt’s exciting to share your engagement news with thousands of your social media friends, but be careful of what you do share as a newly engaged couple. “The intimacy of your relationship should remain private. Keep arguments and disagreements away from social media. Also, have a conversation about boundaries and the expectations of others once your relationship has begun and become public,” advises Farmer. \n\n“An obvious rule of thumb is that if one partner has a problem with a post or something else on social media, it's best to remove it or stop it. There are lots more offline challenges waiting to happen with just experiencing and sharing a life with a partner. Don’t allow online disagreements to spill over into the offline relationship. You’re going to need all the energy and resources for offline, real-world challenges,” says Jasper.\n\n### 7. Do Not Ask or Consider Everyone’s Opinions\nOnce you get an engagement ring, everyone from your wedding planner to your family members and future in-laws will want to weigh in with their planning tips. And while that’s ok, you don’t need to stress over pleasing everyone. While you’re bridesmaids and best friends may want to accompany you to select a wedding dress, at the end of the day, it may be too many opinions for you to handle. Only take advice that aligns with what you truly envision for yourself, your partner, and your big day.\n\n## 8. Make Sure to Take Engagement Photos\nDon’t miss out on the opportunity to remember the moment in time by having [engagement photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos). While you can get pictures taken during the proposal as the engagement ring is slipped on, don’t stress if that isn’t possible. You have your entire engagement period to work with a photographer to schedule a different time. You can use the images to make a wedding guest book that your loved ones can sign on your big day. Or you can simply display them in your home. Either way, celebrate your engagement season with photos of just the two of you.\n\n## Zola, the Place for Your Wedding Planning Needs\nNavigating from the initial engagement through the actual wedding can be overwhelming, but Zola is here to help make your wedding dreams become a reality. Zola has the answers whether you need a destination wedding venue in New York City or are trying to figure out who to put on your guest list. Our expert advice section is here for you 24/7, so you can start planning immediately. \n\nAlso, don’t forget to [create your registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) and sign up for a [free wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). Zola truly is a one-stop shop that has everything you need to prepare for your special day and beyond. For more tips on how to get started on __[wedding planning](https://zola.app.link/2tbNwzyN71)__, click __[here](https://zola.app.link/7cWRVj2fK7)__.","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"You and your partner have been dating for a while—when is it time to take the big step and move in together? Read on to find out.","title":"9 Signs That You Are Ready To Move In Together","slug":"when-should-you-move-in-together","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6z1izCU2tGEqryBcT8bFYr/4b6c68a7c775065543b70388532a288f/Hero_New__19_.jpg","altText":"couple moving in together"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Want to find out where your partner stands on marriage, but not sure how to broach the subject? Read on to find how and when to talk about marriage when dating.","title":"How to Talk About Marriage When Dating","slug":"how-to-talk-about-marriage-when-dating","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XxX5CB6Xz06uYVX1pkihD/8363ec8437cf3a9816750c0a772ef8fb/Hero_TraditionalNuptialsinMiami_InfiniteLoopPhotography_Films.jpg","altText":"Talk About Marriage When Dating"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:52:32.859Z"}],"name":"Newly engaged couples","slug":"newly-engaged-couples","description":"Congratulations on your engagement! In the midst of planning your wedding, you might need general advice on navigating life as a newly engaged couple. We give expert advice on topics like navigating a long distance engagement and answer questions like how to introduce your fiance to your family. We're here to guide and support you, in all ways, throughout this journey!"},{"name":"Newlywed couples","slug":"newlywed-couples","description":"Congrats Newlyweds! As your wedding celebrations come to an end, you might be asking yourselves some questions on topics like combining finances, navigating post-wedding blues (it's a thing!) or buying a house and preparing to start a family. Find expert marriage advice to guide you through the start of your forever and beyond."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Anniversaries","slug":"anniversaries"},"slug":"35th-wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas-that-put-new-spins-on-coral-and-jade","title":"35 Unique 35th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas","excerpt":"Check out our latest blog to discover our top 35th wedding anniversary ideas. Read our blog for more. ","author":"Taylor Bryant","publishedAt":"2020-12-10T20:58:08.897Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2rTlkpD9oaAPmb4dOEcKwz/e7500024365df97d78c5338f33be872f/inline_unsplash__25_.jpg","altText":"35 Wedding Anniversary Ideas"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","body":"Ah, the 35th wedding anniversary. At this point, you’ve probably cycled through all of the “typical” milestone gifts such as jewelry (gold and sterling silver!), headphones, or framed pictures of each other. After three and a half decades of present exchanges, picking up with special anniversary gift ideas l might be a bit more difficult. Well, one easy way of avoiding the obvious is sticking to the traditional themes. \n\n## Jade: A Modern 35th Anniversary Wedding Gift\nIf traditional isn’t your style and you want to go with a more modern gift, try green jade, a gemstone known for its distinct and stunning green color. Jade represents good luck, good fortune, wealth, and wisdom, and is revered in many cultures around the world—and jade anniversary gifts are thought to bring that same luck, fortune, wealth, and wisdom to the couple celebrating 35 years of marriage.\n\n## Coral: A Traditional 35th Anniversary Wedding Gift\n\nThe thirty-five year anniversary is known as the coral gift year. The actual material, known as “the garden of the sea,” is found on the ocean floor and comes in a range of colors, the most noted being a salmon pink shade. It’s regarded as being an item of peace and transformation, and, back in the day, was believed to hold magical powers. If we’re looking for a symbolic link, coral often takes a long time to form and fully develop, much like a successful union—which is why this traditional gift is the perfect way to commemorate a long, happy marriage. \n\n## Jade: A Modern 35th Anniversary Wedding Gift\nIf traditional isn’t your style and you want to go with a more modern gift, try green jade, a gemstone known for its distinct and stunning green color. Jade represents good luck, good fortune, wealth, and wisdom, and is revered in many cultures around the world—and jade anniversary gifts are thought to bring that same luck, fortune, wealth, and wisdom to the couple celebrating 35 years of marriage.\n\n## 35th Anniversary Gift Ideas\nYou can, and should, use these two themes as jumping-off points, and we’ve also gathered up some 35th wedding anniversary ideas below. If you’re looking for the perfect gift idea for your 35th anniversary, we can help. From romantic dinner cruises to elegant jade golf tees, discover our top 35th wedding anniversary ideas (including coral anniversary gifts and jade anniversary gifts!) with this informative gift guide.\n\n### 1. [Plant Subscription](https://www.thesill.com/collections/plant-subscription) The Sill, Various Prices\nPlants are a great way of livening up any space, and jade ones, in particular, are of the succulent variety, which means that they hold water in their leaves. So, green thumb or not, they should be fairly easy to take care of. If you’re looking for unique 35th anniversary ideas, a plant subscription can be the best call. Start by presenting your partner with the initial jade plant, but make sure to mention that there will be a new one arriving every month to care for and cherish. Your collection of plants will grow just as your love has over the years.\n\n![inline unsplash (26)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4LFVwAOUUwGK2fziNM4v3b/dd99eb5d2f9a85a2ca28c9d2b3f04c0a/inline_unsplash__26_.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n### 2. [Coral Makeup Set](https://www.charlottetilbury.com/us/product/pillow-talk-makeup-secrets), Charlotte Tilbury, $128\nThe color coral is one of the more universally flattering shades out there. It pairs nicely with almost every skin tone and gives wearers a nice, authentic glow. A makeup set that includes a blush, eyeshadow, and lipstick is a perfect triple whammy if you’re looking for a coral anniversary gift.\n\n### 3. Trip to an Aquarium, Various Prices\nFor a chance to see some coral up close and personal without having to get wet, plan a fun trip to the aquarium (you’re never too old to watch penguins and otters socialize, trust us). Honestly, the coral will probably be the least exciting part of the day, and, if you don’t feel too guilty afterward, end with a romantic seafood dinner to celebrate your 35 year wedding anniversary.\n\n### 4. [Dinner Cruise](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/cloud9_dinnercruise_ny), Zola, $389 per couple\nIf you live in New York—and you’re looking to get a little more intimate with the water (home of the coral!)—a dinner cruise with views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge is guaranteed to be a good time. \n\n### 5. [Wood and Jade Ring](https://www.etsy.com/listing/639612989/wood-ring-jade-bentwood-fumed-eucalyptus?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=mens%20jade%20ring&ref=sc_gallery-1-1&plkey=77774a9b57137edffa4ecfd0cd25a918339a92b6:639612989&frs=1&source=aw&utm_source=affiliate_window&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=us_location_buyer&utm_term=3657&utm_content=565019&awc=6220_1595609528_fef382ae6d1fb9a480247851e2fa6ce6), Etsy, $175\nA nostalgic nod to your fifth wedding anniversary, this handmade wooden band comes with a stunning jade inlay that’s both timeless and durable.\n\n### 6. [Coral Rose Box](https://saayarose.com/products/36-rose-box-classic?_pos=2&_sid=d19189014&_ss=r), SAAYA ROSE, $179\nFlowers are always a safe bet for an anniversary gift, but the problem lies in the fact that they start dying after a week or two. Eco-friendly, preserved roses (including coral shades!) last 365 days and will keep your house smelling fresh into your 36th year of matrimony. \n\n### 7. [Jade Golf Tees](https://saayarose.com/products/36-rose-box-classic?_pos=2&_sid=d19189014&_ss=r), Amazon, $23.98\nTee-off in style with a jade golf tee. Your partner’s golf buddies will be hiding their regular white tees in shame. Just like your partnership, the gemstone itself is one of the toughest.\n\n### 8. [Topgolf Gift Card](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/topgolf_topgolf_100_gift_card), Topgolf, Various Prices\nLooking for 35th anniversary ideas that involve your spouse’s favorite hobby? For a chance to really show off your new regal tees, book a couple of outings—either with your spouse, a group of friends, or another couple—to Topgolf for some friendly competition. (Bonus points if you wear coral and/or jade golf shirts!)\n\n### 9. [Rosette Jewelry Tray](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1129680815/rosette-tray-in-blue-gray-and-light?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=coral+jewelry+dish&ref=sc_gallery-1-7&listing_id=1129680815&listing_slug=rosette-tray-in-blue-gray-and-light&plkey=2747c833c5c49e0ffa7cac57858a05c95eef4f9d%3A1129680815), Etsy, $65\nIf your partner needs a place to put their jewelry at the end of the day (perhaps a previous anniversary ring or other jewelry gift?), this unique jewelry tray—complete with coral rosettes—would make for a fantastic 35th anniversary gift (and provide your vanity with a little pop of color in the process!) \n\n### 10. [Reel Viewer](https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/create-your-own-reel-viewer?), Uncommon Goods, $29.95\nYou probably have enough photo albums, portraits, and personalized gifts to last you another 35 years, but what’s one more? At least this one is guaranteed to be unlike the others. Gather snapshots of your favorite memories and add them to a reel viewer (in the perfect coral shade!) to immortalize your time together. It’ll be nostalgia like you’ve never experienced before.\n\n### 11. [Jade Earrings in 12K Gold Filled, Vintage Style Green Jade Drop Earrings](https://www.etsy.com/listing/575745430/jade-earrings-in-12k-gold-filled-vintage?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=35th+anniversary&ref=sc_gallery-4-10&pro=1&frs=1&listing_id=575745430&listing_slug=jade-earrings-in-12k-gold-filled-vintage&plkey=ff065aa77dcf62ffbc50cbd01d94ae41aa9dbb11%3A575745430), Etsy, $127.92\nThese drop-style earrings, complete with jade stones, would make the perfect anniversary gift for anyone who loves all things vintage.\n\n### 12. [\"Tree of Love\" Art Print](https://www.etsy.com/listing/129625721/anniversary-gift-for-parents-15th-25th?click_key=0082723bfc6e327c72d4523b19dd0ef58b9f889e%3A129625721&click_sum=b2373ffe&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=35th+anniversary&ref=sr_gallery-5-41&organic_search_click=1&frs=1), Etsy, $27.75\nLove is, in many ways, like a tree; you plant roots, you give the tree attention, and, over time, it grows. So why not commemorate your tree growing for 35 years with this “Tree of Love” print? Customize with your name and wedding date—and order the jade shade to honor your 35th.\n\n### 13. [Green Jade Bangle Bracelet](https://www.etsy.com/listing/973399554/green-jade-bangle-bracelet-for-women-in?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=35th+anniversary&ref=sc_gallery-6-14&pro=1&frs=1&listing_id=973399554&listing_slug=green-jade-bangle-bracelet-for-women-in&plkey=bc2fcffaf62ee886a429ce6eddc52d90079e5ec3%3A973399554), Etsy, $183.92\nIf you want to gift your partners something simple—but fashionable—consider this piece of jade jewelry. The simple gold bangle is offset by two jade gemstones, creating a minimalist (but elegant!) look.\n\n#### 14. [Holzkern Watch in Tropical Forest](https://www.world.holzkern.com/en_world/tropical-forest-walnut-marble.html?utm_source=shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=us-generic-watches&gclid=CjwKCAjwlcaRBhBYEiwAK341jdmpwTz8fJlCUhHjA-kem9ym7pc5T1Nhdnp5VvTp49bE94eR9-LmrhoCTDkQAvD_BwE), Holzkern, $199\nThis walnut watch features a jade green marble watch face. It feels timeless, elegant, and truly unique—making it a great way to commemorate your 35th wedding anniversary.\n\n### 15. [Jade Anniversary Journal](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1061811525/personalized-anniversary-journal-with?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=jade+notebook&ref=sc_gallery-1-2&pro=1&frs=1&sts=1&listing_id=1061811525&listing_slug=personalized-anniversary-journal-with&plkey=e1b25cffc275c8dd5c928a65887494adfc6db2e0%3A1061811525), Etsy, $80.95\nMarriage is all about making memories—and if you want to give your partner a way to record those memories, this jade anniversary journal would make the perfect gift. Gold emboss your names and wedding date on the front cover to make the gift even more personal.\n\n### 16. [Bean Shaped Acrylic Clutch Purse In Emerald Green](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1152006895/bean-shaped-acrylic-clutch-purse-in?click_key=b1d5445e3af0bdfbb76684dae4a9d0f43c6cc416%3A1152006895&click_sum=a26f7c01&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=jade+bag&ref=sr_gallery-1-14&organic_search_click=1&pro=1&frs=1), Etsy, $64\nIf you think your partner would like a unique gift, this clutch purse—which comes complete with vintage details and in a striking shade of jade green—is definitely one to consider.\n\n### 17. [Coral Red Drip Coffee Mug](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1169796900/coral-red-drip-coffee-mug?click_key=c534531d3e4c1bad231190c3c14c2978abaab325%3A1169796900&click_sum=a011022b&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=coral+coffee+mugs&ref=sr_gallery-1-14&organic_search_click=1), Etsy, $22\nThe best anniversary gifts are the ones you actually use. And what gift is your partner sure to use just about every day? A coffee mug, of course! This handmade ceramic option—in the perfect shade of coral for your 35th!—can easily hold 10oz of coffee to help your loved one start their day off right.\n\n### 18. [Natural Jade Wine Glasses](https://www.etsy.com/listing/700855988/natural-jade-wine-glasses-made-by-hand?click_key=8747dcf3c6ae8fbba465e0a5cac3e2c83e8d7abb%3A700855988&click_sum=31feec14&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=jade+wine+glasses&ref=sr_gallery-1-1&organic_search_click=1&pro=1&frs=1), Etsy, $8.50\nDo you and your partner love to end the day with a glass of Cabernet or Pinot Grigio? If so, you’ll want to toast 35 years together with these natural jade wine glasses.\n\n### 19. [Primalush Textured Robe](https://berkshireblanket.com/products/primalush-textured-robe?variant=40698742603955¤cy=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic), Berkshire Blanket, $55\nAfter 35 years together, chances are, you and your partner are pretty comfortable around each other. But if you want them to feel even more comfortable, this textured robe from Berkshire Blanket (which comes in a soft jade shade) would make for a great gift.\n\n### 20. [Jade Guitar Pick](https://www.etsy.com/listing/198230244/jade-guitar-pick-canadian-jade-sold?click_key=57d4bad4e9996a0d851d49e7318e7f849f65774e%3A198230244&click_sum=9a7af501&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=jade+guitar+pick&ref=sr_gallery-1-1&organic_search_click=1), Etsy, $15.98\nIf your partner spends their free time strumming on their guitar, this jade guitar pick would make a great gift.\n\n### 21. [Custom Personalized Engraving Jade Green Leaf Marble Single Pen Stand](https://www.etsy.com/listing/863934986/graduation-special-custom-personalized?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=jade+pens&ref=sc_gallery-1-2&pro=1&frs=1&listing_id=863934986&listing_slug=graduation-special-custom-personalized&plkey=e42f5824a415036b3f7d9a4318945e73228f223f%3A863934986), Etsy, $71.76\nIf your partner likes to write (or just likes to decorate their desk!), this personalized marble pen stand would make a great gift. Engrave the jade base with their name—and, if you want it to remind them of your anniversary, your wedding date.\n\n### 22. [Jade Green Jug Vase, Saban Glassware](https://sabanglassware.com/product/jug-vase/?attribute_pa_color=jade-green&utm_source=Google%20Shopping&utm_campaign=Google%20&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=18484&campaignid=16558146478&adgroupid=131359189421&network=u&device=c&gclid=CjwKCAjwlcaRBhBYEiwAK341jbfU87jpaluzbBePARBeER4orWXDXO6zno46osl2J9HQQYEY8VvezxoC8dIQAvD_BwE), $123.75\nIf you’re planning to bring your partner flowers for your anniversary, you’ll need something to put them in. And not only does this jade green vase make for the perfect flower receptacle, but it can also double as your anniversary gift!\n\n### 23. [Song Soundwave](https://www.etsy.com/listing/878917391/song-soundwave-anniversary-gift-jade?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=jade+anniversary+gift&ref=sc_gallery-1-3&frs=1&sts=1&listing_id=878917391&listing_slug=song-soundwave-anniversary-gift-jade&plkey=f225bbad7c526e4a7ca149f8f3e57a26f9747a00%3A878917391), Etsy, $49\nYour first dance may have been 35 years ago—but we bet it’s still one of your favorite songs. Capture that moment and gift it to your partner with this art print, which turns your song into a soundwave. You can customize the color, but the jade option is perfect for the modern 35th wedding anniversary gift.\n\n### 24. [Jade & Coral Tree, Copper Wire Bonsai](https://www.etsy.com/listing/951062275/jade-coral-tree-35th-anniversary-gift?click_key=4e2b0e5418ee4f98f55bd3a49b2fc5515edcfb3a%3A951062275&click_sum=24982a2c&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=35th+anniversary&ref=sr_gallery-1-11&organic_search_click=1&etp=1&sts=1), Etsy, $57.39\nIf your partner’s idea of the perfect anniversary gift is a unique, memorable decorative item, this jade and coral wire bonsai tree is sure to be a hit.\n\n### 25. [Couples T-Shirts, ‘MARRIED SINCE’ set of 2 Matching Tees](https://www.etsy.com/listing/999544158/35th-anniversary-gift-in-coral-couples-t?click_key=7b63003c689c37dd87b367e80f70eb6639c59277%3A999544158&click_sum=4f10b31b&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=35th+anniversary&ref=sr_gallery-3-46&organic_search_click=1&frs=1), Etsy, $25\nIf you and your partner have a sense of humor, these couples’ t-shirts could be a cute (and funny!) way to celebrate your 35th anniversary.\n\n### 26. [Coral Sun Catcher](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1114307099/35th-wedding-anniversary-gift-coral?click_key=eb7835c93e71e1160867a40a123ecab9f1884bb5%3A1114307099&click_sum=fe87e355&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=35th+anniversary&ref=sr_gallery-4-17&organic_search_click=1&sca=1), Etsy, $19.77\nCapture the sun and commemorate 35 amazing years together with this coral sun catcher. It’s a great gift—and would make a great addition to a sunny window!\n\n### 27. [35th Coral anniversary necklace | Two peas In a pod](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1054047027/35th-coral-anniversary-necklace-two-peas?click_key=cd6231ef3a8794df5c0f5ac4e70606269f8bdfa5%3A1054047027&click_sum=cd673b74&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=35th+anniversary+coral&ref=sr_gallery-4-35&organic_search_click=1&frs=1), Etsy, $106.34 \nAfter 35 years, you and your partner are definitely two peas in a pod. So why not use your gift to celebrate that? This “two peas in a pod” anniversary necklace features two stones of your choice in a silver pod. Your partner will be reminded of your bond every time they wear it!\n\n### 28. [35th Wedding Anniversary Sundial](https://www.etsy.com/listing/619000059/unique-35th-wedding-anniversary-sundial?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=coral+gifts&ref=sc_gallery-1-12&frs=1&listing_id=619000059&listing_slug=unique-35th-wedding-anniversary-sundial&plkey=98f704ce8a7ae19d964db4a790ef6b1e4e1f7444%3A619000059), Etsy, $85.32\nA sundial can be a great addition to your backyard and an interesting, unexpected gift. And with this version, you can personalize the sundial to include your anniversary date—and commemorate your 35 wonderful years together.\n\n### 29. [RCA Retro Portable Home Theater Projector, Coral](https://www.beachcamera.com/products/rca-retro-480p-portable-home-theater-projector-rpj264-coral), Beach Camera, $64.95\nIs a move you and your partner’s idea of the perfect date night? If so, this home theater projector (in the perfect shade of coral!) can be a great gift—and a great way to recreate the move theater experience in your own home.\n\n### 30. [Turkish Blanket](https://www.etsy.com/listing/750657456/turkish-blanket-blanket-78x86-turkish?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=coral+throw+blanket&ref=sc_gallery-1-3&pro=1&listing_id=750657456&listing_slug=turkish-blanket-blanket-78x86-turkish&plkey=f55e199d6b9ff6de582d117510e6e409e4d41437%3A750657456), Etsy, $23\nIs there any better way to spend your 35th anniversary than snuggled up with your loved one? We don’t think so—which is why this coral Turkish blanket would make such a great anniversary gift.\n\n### 31. [KitchenAid Artisan® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer](https://www.kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers/tilt-head-stand-mixers/p.artisan-series-5-quart-tilt-head-stand-mixer.ksm150psph.html), KitchenAid, $429.90\nIf your partner loves to bake, the KitchenAid Stand Mixer is the ultimate gift. (Seriously—ask any baker!) Commemorate your 35th anniversary by gifting your partner the stand mixer in the coral shade.\n\n### 32. [Coral Pink Bunny Rabbit Handmade Ceramic Ring Holder](https://www.etsy.com/listing/815507570/coral-pink-bunny-rabbit-handmade-ceramic?click_key=c7a775e5e7330986257c819ac5f57e1c2ef26708%3A815507570&click_sum=29d41a7c&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=coral+ring+holder&ref=sr_gallery-1-8&organic_search_click=1&pro=1), Etsy, $25.49\nIf you and your partner need a safe (and adorable!) place to store your wedding rings while you sleep, this ceramic ring holder, which allows you to place your rings on the ears of two coral bunnies, would make the perfect gift for your anniversary.\n\n### 33. [Coral Flowers Gallery Wall, 8x10 Set of 4](https://www.etsy.com/listing/586929979/coral-flowers-gallery-wall-8x10-set-of-4?click_key=ce0a5b6b8d26dede5333fc2525fb6aa912e6e1bb%3A586929979&click_sum=16f83be6&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=coral+art&ref=sr_gallery-1-36&organic_search_click=1&pro=1&frs=1&sts=1), Etsy, $49.95\nIf you want to give a 35th anniversary gift that can double as home decor, you should definitely consider this gallery set of four watercolor coral flower prints. (Just keep in mind that frames aren’t included—so if you want to deliver your gift ready to hang, you’ll have to purchase the frames separately.)\n\n### 34. [Omnia Coral By Bvlgari Eau De Toilette Spray For Women](https://www.amazon.com/Bvlgari-Omnia-Coral-Toilette-Spray/dp/B007C27HAA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1451968065&sr=8-22&keywords=coral&linkCode=sl1&tag=oneextmar-20&linkId=5b4bf130bb2904a4a823979158218d09), Amazon, $87.93\nDoes your partner love perfume? If so, why not capture coral in a bottle? The Ombia Coral by Bvlgari comes in attractive coral packaging and has hints of goji berries, bergamot, berries, hibiscus flower, water lily, pomegranate and cedar wood. It’s perfect for a special occasion—like your 35th wedding anniversary!\n\n### 35. [24k Gold Forever Rose, The Forever Rose](https://theforeverrose.com/products/gold-dipped-rose-white-orange?variant=37576780775593¤cy=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gclid=CjwKCAjwlcaRBhBYEiwAK341jcHlHKMaDyH3YsxV3ek6CRvXJ-KdvN56DcBOVndf8vrJ3WH4TWZ_xRoCdUkQAvD_BwE), $79.95\nA rose always makes for a great gift. But for your 35th anniversary, you want a special rose—like the Forever Rose, a real rose that’s dipped in 24K gold. Go with the Sunrise Rose, which is the perfect shade of coral—and the perfect option to celebrate your 35th.\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Looking for simple vow renewal ideas? Discover top tips and recommendations from the pros at Zola today. ","title":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas","slug":"simple-vow-renewal-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PZSW1hObQ6TnM557egpbG/3ee842eade872a59be2ffc64a370f857/inline_unsplash__19___1_.jpg","altText":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Don’t know how to decorate a space for a vow renewal? Our experts at Zola can help! Read on to discover more. ","title":"How to Decorate for a Vow Renewal Ceremony","slug":"how-to-decorate-for-a-vow-renewal-ceremony","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2NH6l2iaZEaPw38esQpXJX/ca8c3b551487d3e7591a18f4a3606df4/Inline_Chensley_Photography__1_.png","altText":"Vow Renewal Ceremony Decorations"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Celebrate each year and every marriage milestone with traditional wedding anniversary gifts.\n","title":"Anniversary Gifts By Year: What to Give Your Partner and Why","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2r5YVBBmqxb2rwtX0ZrjgE/d850a1bf7f7d5109fb4b1c93d433f710/Anniversary_Couple.jpg","altText":"Black man and woman in love celebrating an anniversary"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Celebrate each year and every marriage milestone with traditional wedding anniversary gifts.\n","title":"Anniversary Gifts By Year: What to Give Your Partner and Why","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2r5YVBBmqxb2rwtX0ZrjgE/d850a1bf7f7d5109fb4b1c93d433f710/Anniversary_Couple.jpg","altText":"Black man and woman in love celebrating an anniversary"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wanting to think out the box for your upcoming wedding anniversary gifts? Read this guide for some inspiration on choosing an anniversary gift for your husband.","title":"Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Husband","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas-for-husband","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2vtI05eFyRNuMAfMKeIcT8/9c828f199ec0faa8cdf9f28e1c95d4e9/inline_unsplash__11_.jpg","altText":"Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Husband"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"So it’s your wedding anniversary and you want to throw a get-together to celebrate? Read our step-by-step guide for inspiration.","title":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas","slug":"wedding-anniversary-invite-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7IJ6B0KMXmqqXJpoYAxenM/9cebce3e0441a1accfa69aeda9d53965/inline_unsplash.jpg","altText":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:52.792Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Anniversaries","slug":"anniversaries"},"slug":"simple-vow-renewal-ideas","title":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas","excerpt":"Looking for simple vow renewal ideas? Discover top tips and recommendations from the pros at Zola today. ","author":"Maggy Lehmicke","publishedAt":"2020-12-10T18:35:30.762Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PZSW1hObQ6TnM557egpbG/3ee842eade872a59be2ffc64a370f857/inline_unsplash__19___1_.jpg","altText":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","body":"When it comes to simple vow renewal ideas, few couples know where to start. There are endless resources out there for those planning their wedding, but vow renewals haven’t yet received the same level of recognition.\n\nNo matter the location, reason for celebrating, or size of the soiree, there are many ways you can acknowledge this monumental moment in your marriage without being overly intricate. Below, find nine simple vow renewal ideas or jump straight to the section you’re most inspired by:\n\n1. [Have a Ceremony at Home](#have-a-ceremony-at-home)\n2. [Reread Your Original Vows](#reread-your-original-vows)\n3. [Celebrate With Your Children](#celebrate-with-your-children)\n4. [Have a Potluck](#have-a-potluck)\n5. [Go Simple With Attire](#go-simple-with-attire)\n6. [Rededicate Your Rings](#rededicate-your-rings)\n7. [Pick a Place With Meaning to Both of You](#pick-a-place-with-meaning-to-both-of-you)\n8. [Choose Your Invited Wisely](#choose-your-invited-wisely)\n9. [Do a Destination Vow Renewal](#do-a-destination-vow-renewal)\n\n## 9 Simple Vow Renewal Ideas\nHere is a list of simple, but special vow renewal ideas you can incorporate into your ceremony. \n\n### 1. Have a Ceremony at Home

\nOne of the simplest ways to celebrate your renewed love for one another is by holding a ceremony at home (also occasionally called an “at-home elopement”). Not only is it an intimate place to celebrate with your closest friends and family, but it’s also a great way to acknowledge the life you’ve built together as a couple. If you’ve got room for all your loved ones and a bit of green space for the vows ceremony, your home might be the perfect venue.\n\n### 2. Reread Your Original Vows

\nDon’t think that rereading your old [wedding vows]( https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-vows) is simply a way of avoiding writing new ones. Vows—like marriage—are meant to be a lifelong effort and commitment. By rereading your vows, you’re sending the message that you’re willing to make the same promises you made years ago, even if circumstances have changed. Is there anything more romantic than that? It also creates an inevitably sweet, sentimental moment that might trigger some tears.\n\n### 3. Celebrate With Your Children

\nIf the years between your wedding and vow renewal resulted in some little ones, then go ahead and find ways to include them in the big day. Maybe you mention them in the ceremony reading or let them serve as “hosts” for the event. You can even let one of your children perform as a makeshift officiant for an additional dose of charm. There are no rules, so have fun with it. \n\n### 4. Have a Potluck

\nIf you had an expensive wedding, no need to host a pricey vow renewal ceremony. Simply ask your friends and family to bring a favorite dish of theirs, and you can supply the beverages or desserts. This works especially well for at-home ceremonies and those in public spaces, like national parks or beaches. It might take a little bit of coordinating to make sure there’s something for everyone to eat, but it works for more casual celebrations and lets your guests feel like they contributed in some way.\n\n### 5. Go Simple With Attire

\nNo need to buy an extravagant gown or three-piece suit the second time around. Brides shouldn’t even feel the need to wear white if it doesn’t fit their style. Just go for something simple and elegant that works with your personalities, as well as the space you’re celebrating in. If you’re looking for something more formal, consider taking your wedding-day attire for a spin. Not only does it save some money, but it’s also a great way to honor your original wedding day.\n\n![Simple Vow Renewal Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1OHGj4DSxLbi6o3uxoEmYs/561bae65b5648a7440e9dc87e60dbaa2/inline_unsplash_1_.jpg)\n*Photo Credit //* Unsplash\n\n### 6. Rededicate Your Rings

\nThough ring exchanges aren’t required for a vow renewal ceremony, many couples choose to do something special with them to symbolize the next phase of their lives together. This can mean anything from having them blessed to getting them engraved with a sweet phrase or your vow renewal date. If you want to go all out, you can even purchase new rings to commemorate the occasion. (After all, if you’ve been married for a decade or more, it’s likely your tastes have changed.)\n\n### 7. Pick a Place With Meaning to Both of You

\n![Simple Vow Renewal Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2t1VuCDK7Rsi7OlBWnqb2Z/807a6dda70892cb51175425500b2281a/inline_unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit //* Unsplash\n\nThough couples are getting more and more creative with [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues), there are even fewer expectations when it comes to vow renewals. Maybe the restaurant where you got engaged has a great event space or your favorite coffee shop has an amazing underground roastery with lots of space. If you want to take a walk down memory lane, you could even choose to renew your vows at the original venue where you got married.\n\n### 8. Choose Your Invited Wisely

\nAs beautiful as print invitations are, they may not be right for a casual occasion. Consider opting for electronic invitations or even a simple email announcement that directs recipients toward a vow renewal website. You’re not only reducing the risk of invitations getting lost in the mail, but you’re also simultaneously keeping costs down. \n\nWith the abundance of options available these days it’s easy to make your digital invites feel both polished and personal. If you plan on going all out for your wedding renewal, choose [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) that are fit for the occasion. Remember,it’s up to the two of you as a couple to decide how you’ll want to celebrate this special day. \n\n### 9. Do a Destination Vow Renewal

\nAlways secretly dreamt of eloping despite having a large, traditional wedding? In that case, a destination vow renewal is a no-brainer. This could be anything from hosting an intimate ceremony on a beach in Tulum, Mexico to eloping on a sailboat in the South Pacific. Just note that if you’re planning a vow renewal in the near future, we highly suggest staying up-to-date on travel restrictions and observing the recommendations made by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).\n\nNow that you know our top ideas for renewing marriage vows, it’s time to choose the perfect event for your special day. As long as love is the center of the event, we are sure you’ll have a beautiful and memorable vow renewal ceremony.\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Don’t know how to decorate a space for a vow renewal? Our experts at Zola can help! Read on to discover more. ","title":"How to Decorate for a Vow Renewal Ceremony","slug":"how-to-decorate-for-a-vow-renewal-ceremony","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2NH6l2iaZEaPw38esQpXJX/ca8c3b551487d3e7591a18f4a3606df4/Inline_Chensley_Photography__1_.png","altText":"Vow Renewal Ceremony Decorations"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wondering if you should send wedding renewal invitations? Our experts explain the answer in this comprehensive guide.","title":"10 Ideas For Vow Renewal Invitations","slug":"wedding-renewal-invitations","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4U5YGAECoxGdv1ZwoqNlSN/0d3756933a90c0b091f74d1250b6f894/jeremy-wong-weddings-464ps_nOflw-unsplash.jpg","altText":"older couple vow renewal"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Feeling stuck when it comes to how to write your renewal vows? We can help. Check out our latest tips here.","title":"8 Vow Renewal Wording Tips & Tricks","slug":"vow-renewal-wording-tips-and-tricks","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2OrLAgnlgpNbFhvXjMcFvF/bfc36b0ce58694d9f974aaf302327e30/inline_unsplash__22_.jpg","altText":"How to Write my Vow Renewals"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking to get your guests laughing at your wedding renewal? Discover our top suggestions for funny renewal wedding vows here.","title":"Funny Renewal Wedding Vows","slug":"funny-renewal-wedding-vows","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/14SsQ3X0p4jSgW70Ku7hSo/0059254211a299da64d6c8c31ad123ed/inline_unsplash__21___1_.jpg","altText":"Funny Renewal Wedding Vows"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Check out our latest blog for fun and creative 20th-anniversary ideas! Read our blog for more inspiration. ","title":"20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas","slug":"20th-wedding-anniversary-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/44xqsjrS9WDU3wnTp475xF/06153ab78d0d9f3131e8cbc547c9628d/Inline_unsplash__11_.png","altText":"20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Celebrate each year and every marriage milestone with traditional wedding anniversary gifts.\n","title":"Anniversary Gifts By Year: What to Give Your Partner and Why","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2r5YVBBmqxb2rwtX0ZrjgE/d850a1bf7f7d5109fb4b1c93d433f710/Anniversary_Couple.jpg","altText":"Black man and woman in love celebrating an anniversary"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"So it’s your wedding anniversary and you want to throw a get-together to celebrate? Read our step-by-step guide for inspiration.","title":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas","slug":"wedding-anniversary-invite-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7IJ6B0KMXmqqXJpoYAxenM/9cebce3e0441a1accfa69aeda9d53965/inline_unsplash.jpg","altText":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:50:03.481Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Anniversaries","slug":"anniversaries"},"slug":"anniversary-quotes","title":"110 Happy Anniversary Quotes to Express Your Love","excerpt":"Want to wish someone a happy anniversary but unsure of how to put it into words? These anniversary quotes offer plenty of ideas to get you started. ","publishedAt":"2022-05-03T19:35:03.098Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/69O8ZbFrxXeFF4Adfgo1U5/cbc24c72a99f1b4d1938f93499d7530f/woman-giving-partner-anniversary-letter.jpg","altText":"woman giving partner anniversary letter"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","heroCaption":"woman giving partner anniversary letter","body":"The wedding might be over, but anniversaries are a significant [milestone](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/diy-photo-booth) in a couple’s relationship that deserve to be celebrated. With all the ups and downs life can bring, reaching another year of marriage is no small feat, which makes sending anniversary wishes that much more special. \n\nTraditionally, there’s no [etiquette](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/guest-at-wedding) rule requiring you to send anniversary wishes to another couple. This doesn’t apply to your own relationship, though—spouses should definitely acknowledge the special day! That said, if you’re looking to wish someone a happy anniversary but are unsure of how to put your wishes into words, our anniversary quotes offer plenty of ideas to get you started. \n\nWhether you’re writing to your own partner or celebrating close friends or parents, we’ve included something for everyone. (You might also consider an [anniversary gift](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas) while you’re at it!)\n\n__Table of Contents__\n- What to Include in an Anniversary Message\n- Simple Happy Anniversary Quotes\n- Anniversary Quotes for Instagram Captions\n- Thoughtful Anniversary Quotes\n- Romantic Anniversary Quotes\n- Funny Anniversary Quotes\n- One-Year Anniversary Quotes\n- Anniversary Quotes for Friends\n- Anniversary Quotes for Parents\n\n\n## What to Include in an Anniversary Message\nIf you’re scratching your head for [what to write](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-write-in-a-wedding-card) in your anniversary message, don’t fear! Your message doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some helpful places to get started when deciding on what to include in your anniversary message—you’ll find writing your heartfelt note isn’t so hard! \n\n- Make a toast\n- Share a memory\n- Offer words of encouragement\n- Celebrate the milestone \n- Call out the beauty of a lasting relationship \n- Reflect on your love for your partner \n\n![the-best-anniversary-quotes-qualities](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5SKxJMuHNoqTGXRscBsLZF/e474dd9224a0413817840a59a1a92cca/the-best-anniversary-quotes-qualities.png)\n\n## Simple Happy Anniversary Quotes \nYou can say a lot with not many words—a simple “Happy Anniversary” paired with one of the anniversary quotes below is all you need for a heartwarming message. Use the following quotes for inspiration if you’re celebrating your own anniversary, or skip below to find quotes for friends and loved ones. \n\n1. You make celebrating our love feel easy. Happy anniversary! \n2. Today, tomorrow, and always—our love never ends. Happy anniversary!\n3. Cheers to another year with my better half. \n4. Time truly flies when I’m with you. Happy anniversary! \n5. Cheers to another 365 days together and the many more to come!\n6. Life with you just makes sense—here’s to another year together. \n7. Thanks for being the best partner I could’ve asked for. Happy anniversary!\n8. Another year together and I’m still finding new things I love about you.\n9. Choosing you was the best decision I ever made. \n10. Loved you last year, loved you yesterday, love you still and always will. \n11. Our love story is my favorite. Happy anniversary to us! \n12. Happy anniversary to my person—how did I get so lucky? \n13. Today reminds me of why I fell in love with you, and my love has only grown. Happy anniversary today and always.\n14. I’m grateful for our love every day, but especially today. Happy anniversary!\n15. All of me loves all of you. Happy anniversary to my favorite person! \n\n## Anniversary Quotes for Instagram Captions\nYour anniversary is a significant milestone, so it makes sense you’d want to share a thoughtful post on social media commemorating the occasion. If you’re looking to celebrate your love on the ‘gram, use the list below to help you find the perfect caption. \n\n16. A year later and you still give me butterflies. #1yearanniversary\n17. 525,600 minutes as a married couple. #happyanniversary\n18. One year down, a lifetime to go. #happyweddinganniversary\n19. Ready for another trip around the sun? #1yearanniversary\n20. Life with you just keeps getting better—swipe for a surprise! #anniversarypresent\n21. 365 days of smiles, laughs, and reminders to take the trash out. #loveyouforever \n\n![anniversary-quote-shania-twain](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/8H8fPNI6Fj1IRYd3MDpO5/1262c47cb2f42910cd6ba0c87f12ce22/anniversary-quote-shania-twain.png)\n\n22. “You’re still the one I run to, the one that I belong to. You’re still the one I want for life.” —Shania Twain, “You’re Still the One”\n23. I said yes to a life with you. \n24. I can’t wait to grow old with you. \n25. “When I look at you, I can feel it. I look at you, and I’m home.” —Dory, “Finding Nemo”\n\n## Thoughtful Anniversary Quotes\nSometimes, sharing from the heart is tough. Use these quotes to help put your feelings into words. \n\n26. Life with you just keeps on getting better. \n27. You’ll never stop being my happy place. \n28. Sleeping by your side means endless sweet dreams. \n29. Yesterday,today and always, I still choose you! \n30. I am yours, and you are mine. \n31. Your love truly makes life sweeter. \n32. I can’t imagine a single day without you by my side. \n33. My heart still skips a beat when I look at you. \n34. Rain or shine, you’ll always be mine. \n35. The love I hold for you continues to grow, today and always. \n36. To the one who stole my heart, thank you for loving me so well. \n37. Our love is a rare gift that I’ll never let go of. \n38. The love we share is magnetic, and you make life pure magic. \n39. Cheers to another year with my best friend and better half.\n40. Saying yes to you was the smartest move I ever made. \n41. You’re more beautiful to me with each passing year, and this year is no exception.\n42. I’m convinced I won the lottery with you.\n43. I didn’t think I could love you more than I already do, but this special day has proved me wrong. \n44. In a sea of people, I have eyes only for you. \n45. Happy anniversary to a beautiful person who has given me the most beautiful life.\n46. Forever isn’t long enough with you. \n47. With you by my side, life could never get better. \n48. You’ve given me so many reasons to smile this past year, but my smile couldn’t be any bigger on this special day. \n49. Another year together and I still get butterflies when I look at you. \n50. You make my life better in every way. Thanks for choosing me today and every day. \n51. You’re the only one I want to wake up next to, day after day, year after year. \n52. Happy anniversary to my soulmate—how did I get so lucky? \n53. Today our relationship is one year older, and the depth of our love just keeps growing deeper. \n54. I thought I knew what true love was until I met you. \n55. My only regret is that I can’t go back in time so I could’ve met you sooner. Happy anniversary to my one true love. \n\n## Romantic Anniversary Quotes\nIf you consider yourself a hopeless romantic, these quotes are for you. \n\n56. Of all the love stories that exist, ours will always be my favorite.\n57. Words can’t express my unending love for you, especially on a day like today. \n58. “So how does it happen, great love? Nobody knows…but what I can tell you is that it happens in the blink of an eye. One moment you’re enjoying your life, and the next you’re wondering how you ever lived without them.” —Hitch, “Hitch”\n59. “I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone.” —Arwen, “Lord of the Rings”\n60. “The best love is the kind that awakens the soul, that makes us reach for more, that plants the fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds.” —Noah, “The Notebook”\n61. Happy anniversary to the only person in the world that I want beside me every day and every night for the rest of my life.\n62. “If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.” —A. A. Milne, “Winnie the Pooh”\n\n![anniversary-quote-winnie-the-pooh](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6plI9QETkNu0ijaR0ZSJyL/a43385dbb4ec192de9df0796843a6839/anniversary-quote-winnie-the-pooh.png)\n\n63. When a love is true, there is no ending. I hope we get to celebrate for many years to come. Happy anniversary!\n64. I believe everything happens for a reason because it led me to you. I love you, happy anniversary.\n65. From sending you good night texts to wishing you good morning, everything seems sweeter since I met you. Happy anniversary.\n\n## Funny Anniversary Quotes\nIf some light wit and humor is more your style, these quotes are guaranteed to make your partner crack a smile. \n\n66. I sometimes wonder how you put up with me, but then I remember that I put up with you too, so we’ll call it even. \n67. Since we first met, I’ve only wanted the best for you—which is obviously me!\n68. A wedding band is the smallest handcuff ever made—lucky for me, I’ve got a pretty great cellmate. I love you!\n69. If two people love each other, nothing is impossible. Except for deciding where to eat. We still haven't figured that one out yet. \n70. Happy anniversary to my special someone—I look forward to annoying you for the rest of your life!\n71. I love you more than anything, even my favorite pasta—just please don’t make me prove it. Happy anniversary!\n72. Happy anniversary, babe. No refunds! \n73. I’m amazed at how long we’ve tolerated each other. Cheers to another year! \n74. Our relationship has taught me so much—like that 99% of being married is just yelling “WHAT?” from across the house. \n75. Holy crap. We’re still married? You’re still mine? In that case, happy anniversary!\n\n## One-Year Anniversary Quotes\nCelebrating your first anniversary calls for something unique and special. These quotes can help you commemorate the occasion. \n\n76. One year down, our entire lives to go. \n77. “If I had only one anniversary to celebrate, I would want it with you.” —Byron Pulsifer\n78. This day is beyond special, and the first of many more to come. \n79. 365 days later and I’m still head over heels for you!\n80. Only one year in and you’re making this whole marriage thing seem easy. I love you!\n81. I’ve learned love is not about how many days, months, or years we’ve been together—it’s about how much we love each other every single day. \n82. Better than I was, more than I am. And all this happened by taking your hand.\n83. \"All that you are is all that I'll ever need.\" —Ed Sheeran, “Tenerife Sea”\n84. “How sweet it is to be loved by you.” —Marvin Gaye, “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)”\n\n![anniversary-quote-how-sweet-it-is](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2cksKc3GjDWLl7xdciFJA9/4a6542fc7b33185d444adcb255c12014/anniversary-quote-how-sweet-it-is.png)\n\n85. One year ago today, our souls became one. We might not be [newlyweds](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/newlywed-game-questions) anymore, but our love is stronger than ever. \n86. Our first year of love has taught me more than I thought possible about what true love really is. Happy anniversary to my person!\n87. Today marks the first milestone of countless moments that are still to be had. Cheers to our first anniversary! \n88. Our first year together is in the books, and all I can hope for is 99 more. I love you!\n89. Our hearts united one year ago on this beautiful day, and I know our love will only grow deeper with time. Happy first anniversary!\n90. I’d be lying if I said this past year wasn’t one of the best of my life. You’re my everything, today and forever!\n\n## Anniversary Quotes for Friends\nWishing your friends a happy anniversary is a thoughtful gesture that you can keep fairly laid-back. These quotes are some of our favorites! \n\n91. Happy anniversary to my favorite lovebirds! \n92. You two are proof that true love really does exist. \n93. Happy anniversary to our favorite couple!\n94. This might go without saying, but you two were made for each other. Happy anniversary!\n95. Sending our love and best wishes to the happy couple. Happy anniversary!\n96. The best thing to hold onto in life is each other, and you two do it beautifully.\n97. Wishing you both a long and wonderful life together on this special day!\n98. Cheers to you two and your endless love story. I can’t wait to see your relationship continue to grow.\n99. Thank you for being an example of true love and commitment. Happy anniversary!\n100. Nobody’s perfect, but together, you two are pretty close. \n\n## Anniversary Quotes for Parents\nAfter years of navigating the ups and downs of marriage, parents are often a beautiful example of lasting love. Sending them thoughtful anniversary wishes won’t go unnoticed—use these quotes to write the perfect note! \n\n101. Happy anniversary to the parents who never stop inspiring me. Best wishes on this special day!\n102. The only thing better than having you for parents is my children having you for grandparents. Happy anniversary, Mom and Dad! \n103. Watching you two grow closer with each passing year is more of a gift than you realize. Happy anniversary!\n104. Congratulations on another year of togetherness. You two melt my heart!\n105. Happy anniversary to my dear parents, who have shown us kids that “happily ever after” really can come true. \n106. All these years together and you two still represent what a loving, blissful marriage looks like. I love you, happy anniversary!\n107. The bond you share never fails to remind me of the power of true love. Happy anniversary!\n108. May your love overflow today as much as it did when you two first met. Happy anniversary! \n109. Thank you for never giving up on each other through all of life’s challenges. I’m sure us kids had nothing to do with those challenges. Happy anniversary!\n110. “You are the parents that all kids hope to have, you are the couple that all lovers hope to be, and you both are the pillars of support that every family wishes it had. Happy anniversary to the best parents ever.” —Anonymous\n\nWhether you’re wishing your closest friends a happy anniversary or celebrating your own with your partner, a thoughtful message can go a long way. Funny and witty or romantic and serious, there’s no wrong answer for the message you choose, so long as it comes from the heart. Cheers to love! \n","tag":"Newlywed Advice","updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:57.243Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Anniversaries","slug":"anniversaries"},"slug":"20th-wedding-anniversary-ideas","title":"20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas","excerpt":"Check out our latest blog for fun and creative 20th-anniversary ideas! Read our blog for more inspiration. ","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2020-12-10T21:35:42.612Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/44xqsjrS9WDU3wnTp475xF/06153ab78d0d9f3131e8cbc547c9628d/Inline_unsplash__11_.png","altText":"20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","body":"How does one celebrate 20 grand years of marriage? Seems like a distant feat when you first wed, but then it comes along and you wonder where the years went. Your 20th wedding anniversary is the time to celebrate all the love and dedication to each other that has seen you both through the ebbs and flows of life together. \n\nTraditionally this anniversary is symbolized by gifts of porcelain or china, which signifies beauty and strength, but the modern marker for two decades of marriage is platinum—equally elegant and enduring. The associated colors for the occasion are emerald green and white, making the recommended gemstone—what else?—an emerald. \n\nThere are so many great ideas for presents and experiences related to these themes, so let’s take a look at a few 20th wedding anniversary ideas to make this a memorable moment. \n\n### Keep It Traditional\n\nGo totally traditional with a themed tea set for those late afternoon teas you’ll both enjoy in each other’s company or even a full-fledged dinner set for formal family dinners and other grand parties at home. \n\nSpeaking of home, china vases and picture frames, antique porcelain gift boxes, or sculptures and figurines to commemorate the occasion are all great 20th anniversary ideas. \n\nThat romantic picnic basket with all porcelain dinnerware for two is a great gift for the couple who already has everything for the home. \n\nIf you have a Chinatown neighborhood in your city, then the occasion calls for a date night out revisiting cherished spots you’ve been frequenting as a couple or new ones on your list you’ve always been planning to explore. \n\nOf course, if travel is on your mind, then that trip to China might be the perfect grand gift to celebrate your 20th anniversary. Use a china doll holding the tickets to announce the surprise getaway or some of the surprise experiences you’ve booked for your getaway. \n\n![20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2sLrSZn8iq9qVZSnNoFnm6/8ec12ad2095cbf3d2e67cf811e17375e/Inline_unsplash__10_.png)\n*Photo Credit //* Unsplash\n\n### Go Modern\n\nPlatinum jewelry is a subtle and sophisticated style alternative to other metal jewelry, so a sleek custom piece from a celebrated local designer will please your spouse. \n\nFor music lovers, an album from the year you were married or when your kids were born is a coveted gift that your special someone will absolutely adore. Other options include music from a favorite artist, orchestra, or a special performance that holds fond memories for them. \n\nIf your spouse has an affinity for a certain brand, get them to platinum status with that company’s loyalty program or credit card. Every time they’re able to use the perks and benefits, they’ll remember your thoughtfulness for their preferences. \n\nPlatinum watches from a brand known for its luxury watchmaking is a great addition to your wardrobe and a statement piece to wear to events. Plus, it’s a 20-year anniversary idea that your husband or wife will always remember. If you’ve been eyeing one that’s tailor-made for couples, then your 20th wedding anniversary presents a timely reason to invest in one.\n\nPlatinum accessories and decor, especially arranged as a surprise in personal spaces such as the family room, bedroom, otr private study area, are grand ways to show your significant other you’ve indulged in some thought in choosing their presents for the day. \n\n### Bring It Together With Green and White\n\nIf you’re celebrating with friends and family, emerald green and white table and home decorations make a lovely combination for party decor. Carry it through with balloons and streamers, and also for the special celebration cake. \n\nPack an at-home spa retreat gift basket filled with self-care products like bath bombs, comfort food, fragrant candles, and even a special cocktail kit for an anniversary celebration. \n\nOr, you could head out for a spa getaway to a destination with emerald in the name, such as Emerald Lakes in California, the Emerald Coast of Florida, or Emerald Isle in North Carolina. \n\nFor tech enthusiasts, accessories, whether wireless speakers or watch straps, in these colors make for an outstanding—and very useful—gift. \n\nHead down memory lane with a hardcover photo album or memory book in emerald green with white inserts filled with photos, show tickets, and other little events in your life you’re nostalgic for. Remember to leave plenty of space for the future you will spend together as a married couple. \n\nNo matter the manner you choose to mark your 20th wedding anniversary, it is a precious moment to behold as you plan for the next 20 years ahead. Make it a memorable one.","tag":"Inspiration","nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Celebrate each year and every marriage milestone with traditional wedding anniversary gifts.\n","title":"Anniversary Gifts By Year: What to Give Your Partner and Why","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2r5YVBBmqxb2rwtX0ZrjgE/d850a1bf7f7d5109fb4b1c93d433f710/Anniversary_Couple.jpg","altText":"Black man and woman in love celebrating an anniversary"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking to get your guests laughing at your wedding renewal? Discover our top suggestions for funny renewal wedding vows here.","title":"Funny Renewal Wedding Vows","slug":"funny-renewal-wedding-vows","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/14SsQ3X0p4jSgW70Ku7hSo/0059254211a299da64d6c8c31ad123ed/inline_unsplash__21___1_.jpg","altText":"Funny Renewal Wedding Vows"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Don’t know how to decorate a space for a vow renewal? Our experts at Zola can help! Read on to discover more. ","title":"How to Decorate for a Vow Renewal Ceremony","slug":"how-to-decorate-for-a-vow-renewal-ceremony","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2NH6l2iaZEaPw38esQpXJX/ca8c3b551487d3e7591a18f4a3606df4/Inline_Chensley_Photography__1_.png","altText":"Vow Renewal Ceremony Decorations"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"So it’s your wedding anniversary and you want to throw a get-together to celebrate? Read our step-by-step guide for inspiration.","title":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas","slug":"wedding-anniversary-invite-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7IJ6B0KMXmqqXJpoYAxenM/9cebce3e0441a1accfa69aeda9d53965/inline_unsplash.jpg","altText":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Celebrate each year and every marriage milestone with traditional wedding anniversary gifts.\n","title":"Anniversary Gifts By Year: What to Give Your Partner and Why","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2r5YVBBmqxb2rwtX0ZrjgE/d850a1bf7f7d5109fb4b1c93d433f710/Anniversary_Couple.jpg","altText":"Black man and woman in love celebrating an anniversary"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wanting to think out the box for your upcoming wedding anniversary gifts? Read this guide for some inspiration on choosing an anniversary gift for your husband.","title":"Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Husband","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas-for-husband","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2vtI05eFyRNuMAfMKeIcT8/9c828f199ec0faa8cdf9f28e1c95d4e9/inline_unsplash__11_.jpg","altText":"Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Husband"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:50:04.204Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Anniversaries","slug":"anniversaries"},"slug":"how-to-do-a-vow-renewal-on-a-budget","title":"How to Do a Vow Renewal on a Budget","excerpt":"Looking to plan a vow renewal on a budget? Find out how with this helpful guide. ","author":"Maggy Lehmicke","publishedAt":"2020-12-21T22:08:22.188Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/71YdJTv52AEpRdgm5Ayc3j/11d15cb790fc12bad52d3029c43486b8/Inline_Samantha_Rice_Photography.png","altText":"Vow Renewal on a Budget"},"heroCredit":"Samantha Rice Photography","body":"When it comes to holding a budget vow renewal, many of the same tips and tricks apply that would with a wedding. Narrowing down your guest list, cutting back on [wedding stationery](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper), and tackling some small DIY projects are often the most common pieces of advice. However, vow renewals come with a very different set of expectations than weddings, so there’s a lot of room for creativity.\n\nIf you’ve got a vision for a beautiful event, but are struggling to find ways to cut costs, below are some of our top pieces of advice on how to plan a vow renewal on a budget.\n\n## Don’t Treat It like a Second Wedding\n![Zola - How to Have a Budget Vow Renewal](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XtYMtRZJFoHGVxdAqWQSu/3c7531f540c32c64fad53539e324f507/Inline_Laura_Hollander_Photography__1_.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Laura Hollander Photography\n\nFor one primary reason: it isn’t one. This doesn’t mean that it’s any less special or less memorable–it simply means that it’s an entirely different celebration and should be treated as such. The word “wedding” is immediately associated with higher costs, so be clear about the purpose of your celebration from the get-go. There’s also less expectation surrounding wedding vow renewals, which gives you the opportunity to really do it your way–including keeping it cost-friendly.\n\nWhen planning a renewal ceremony, keep in the back of your mind what would make the day most special to you and your partner. If you want to spend the money to hold the ceremony at a distillery, but DIY everything else, then go for it. Embrace the sense of freedom that you might not have experienced the first time around.\n\n## Source Locally\nThis is one of the easiest ways to save money. Not only are local vendors more sustainable, but they’re also less likely to charge you an arm and a leg for details such as delivery fees when putting together a vow renewal celebration. If you look for florists and rental companies that are hyperlocal, chances are that they’re not only going to be less expensive, but they’re going to be more flexible than those located elsewhere.\n\nHowever, keep in mind that the more remote your [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues), the more money you’re likely to spend on vendors. If you’re planning an island vow renewal, for example, delivery costs are likely to be high, and local vendors might hike their prices if they’re the only option on the island. If you live in a tiny town or don’t have a lot of vendors and creatives in your area, Etsy is a great alternative for sourcing things such as [wedding decor](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/decorations) and accessories, while allowing you to still support small businesses.\n\n## Make It a Potluck\nThe argument against potlucks for weddings may still exist, but this isn’t a wedding, is it? If you’d prefer to get a food truck or do something a little bit more traditional, that’s always an option. But, inviting your guests to bring their favorite dish and indulge potluck-style is one of the easiest ways to bring costs down. Just make sure that you’re clear with everyone about expectations and have a system or spreadsheet to track what everyone is planning to bring. This is also something that you can assign out to a friend and/or family member to take care of so that you can keep stress levels low.\n\n## Keep It Intimate\nAs one of the most common recommendations in the book, there is nothing more cost-friendly than choosing an intimate affair over a massive celebration. Aside from the obvious savings, there are additional benefits to keeping your numbers down, including the natural rise in the cost per-person. Even on a budget, a smaller party means that you’re able to spend more money on each attendee, and it allows for some creative ideas, including fun favors and more elaborate place settings for your vow renewal celebration.\n\n## Host It at Home\nThere is unlikely to be a venue that is as budget-friendly as your own home (and no better way to commemorate the life that you’ve built together as a married couple). Just make sure that you’re realistic about the attendee capacity and the amount of work that it would require. If your house doesn’t have a backyard, or is too quaint for the event size that you’re imagining, then take the party to a public park. Whatever you choose to do, just make sure that you’re adhering to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines in your area and plan accordingly.\n\n## Avoid Rentals Altogether\nIf you’re planning a hefty-sized get-together, this can be a tough one, but for those organizing more intimate gatherings, avoiding rentals isn’t totally out of the question. If you’re hosting the vow renewal at home, the many pieces of furniture and décor that you have sitting around the house can be great alternatives to rentals. Mirrors, rugs, ottomans, candlesticks, and glassware are all common pieces that are easy to repurpose. Just ask your guests to each bring a lawn chair and you’ve got your bases covered.\n\n## Consider DIYing Some Elements\n![Zola - How to Have a Budget Vow Renewal](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/71YdJTv52AEpRdgm5Ayc3j/11d15cb790fc12bad52d3029c43486b8/Inline_Samantha_Rice_Photography.png)\n*Photo Credit* // Samantha Rice Photography\n\nInvitations, florals, and décor alone can easily cost a couple thousand dollars. Make sure that you prioritize what’s most important for you to have done professionally and what might be a fun project leading up to the big day. This also goes for your loved ones who you know are willing to lend a hand. If you’ve got a friend with a talent for creating bouquets, or a relative who’s adopted calligraphy as their quarantine hobby, don’t be afraid to ask them for help.\n\n## Purchase, Instead of Rent\nDespite the obvious, it can actually be much cheaper to purchase items such as table linens and table décor instead of renting them for your vow renewal celebration. Just make sure that you’re actually going to use them again or have somewhere to re-sell them so that they don’t go to waste. Décor items such as rugs, candlesticks, and runners are all popular picks to reuse down the road. You can even repurpose décor and florals as gifts to your attendees or loved ones who helped you coordinate the big day.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Feeling stuck when it comes to how to write your renewal vows? We can help. Check out our latest tips here.","title":"8 Vow Renewal Wording Tips & Tricks","slug":"vow-renewal-wording-tips-and-tricks","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2OrLAgnlgpNbFhvXjMcFvF/bfc36b0ce58694d9f974aaf302327e30/inline_unsplash__22_.jpg","altText":"How to Write my Vow Renewals"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Don’t know if you should make a vow renewal website? Learn about the benefits with this complete guide.","title":"Should You Make a Vow Renewal Website?","slug":"should-you-make-a-vow-renewal-website","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7mvf7blyoC4VfEJGXczqZd/a877bde5ed387a89c80e495573d8fb33/Inline_Alto_Images.png","altText":"Vow Renewal Wedding Website"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for simple vow renewal ideas? Discover top tips and recommendations from the pros at Zola today. ","title":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas","slug":"simple-vow-renewal-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PZSW1hObQ6TnM557egpbG/3ee842eade872a59be2ffc64a370f857/inline_unsplash__19___1_.jpg","altText":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Feeling stuck when it comes to how to write your renewal vows? We can help. Check out our latest tips here.","title":"8 Vow Renewal Wording Tips & Tricks","slug":"vow-renewal-wording-tips-and-tricks","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2OrLAgnlgpNbFhvXjMcFvF/bfc36b0ce58694d9f974aaf302327e30/inline_unsplash__22_.jpg","altText":"How to Write my Vow Renewals"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:58.680Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Anniversaries","slug":"anniversaries"},"slug":"funny-renewal-wedding-vows","title":"Funny Renewal Wedding Vows","excerpt":"Looking to get your guests laughing at your wedding renewal? Discover our top suggestions for funny renewal wedding vows here.","author":"Maggy Lehmicke","publishedAt":"2020-12-10T19:00:39.172Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/14SsQ3X0p4jSgW70Ku7hSo/0059254211a299da64d6c8c31ad123ed/inline_unsplash__21___1_.jpg","altText":"Funny Renewal Wedding Vows"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","body":"Vows are one of the original (and most meaningful) ways to highlight what you value most in your relationship. For many, having a husband or wife with a sense of humor is one of the secrets to an everlasting union. So why not embrace that the second time around at your wedding vow renewal ceremony?\n\nWhether you’re a comedian at heart or simply looking to entertain your guests, writing funny renewal wedding vows is a great way to commemorate your marriage thus far. Below are a few tips to help you embrace your lighthearted side and generate some laughs along the way at your vow renewal ceremony.\n\n### Pull Ideas From Your Original Wedding Vows\nWhether it’s a promise that one of you took a little too seriously (“cleaning more doesn’t mean vacuuming in the middle of the night”) or one that took on a whole new meaning (“who knew finding more shared hobbies would lead to entering an underwater hockey tournament?”), your original wedding vows are a great place to look for inspiration. This is especially effective if most of your guests are people who attended your wedding and heard your original wedding vows.\n\n### Reflect on Old Memories (Including the Wedding Day) \nFunny stories from when you first started dating your husband or wife always make great stories, because they’re full of humor and authenticity. The same goes for your wedding day. Chances are not everything went exactly as planned, so cracking jokes about what went wrong is a great way to lighten the mood and demonstrate that what you value most is the relationship itself.\n\n### Make Sure You’re on the Same Page as Your Partner\n\n![Funny Renewal Wedding Vows](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/63t5ZeVyOxxUQ24xMYA8E6/a7463efe34cac2f66861878708474639/inline_unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit //* Unsplash\n\nFunny vows are great, but if your partner is taking a more serious route, the unexpected humor can be a bit jarring at your renewal ceremony. If your partner is more of the sentimental or romantic type, make sure you let them know what route you’re going to take in advance of your vow renewal. If you’re both wannabe comedians and goofiness is your fallback, then you’re probably already on the right track. Just remember that your vows set the tone for the rest of the day, so you want them to feel authentic to you as a couple.\n\n### Mention Mistakes (and Make It Witty)\nWe’ve all failed in our relationships in one way or another. If addressed as a problem, it can be sad or frustrating, but if told in the form of a humorous recollection, it comes off more relatable. Maybe your initiative to cook more led to an adventure with the local fire station. Or, maybe your partner’s attempt to plan a surprise date failed when you wound up at the wrong restaurant. Even moments that may not have seemed funny at the time make some of the best memories and hilarious stories to share with your loved ones.\n\n### Be Self-Deprecating \nIf it’s in your repertoire, don’t be afraid to make fun of yourself. For example, maybe you vowed to make an effort to plan more vacations and your first attempt was a weekend camping trip that ended in disaster. It’s often easy to find lighthearted ways to pick on your partner, but highlighting your own mistakes is a great way to balance the humor and remind your SO that you know you’re not perfect either.\n\n### Include Something Serious or Sentimental \n\n![Funny Renewal Wedding Vows](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3G4JV49sJwIHyUHfrEtzFc/69d62539f97e40ae849ca3435b362939/inline_unsplash_1_.jpg)\n*Photo Credit //* Unsplash\n\nThough it doesn’t need to be the primary focus, it’s always nice to circle back to why you’re both standing there and how far you’ve come from your initial wedding day. Maybe your partner’s lighthearted (and sometimes childish) nature is what you love most about them. Or, maybe you acknowledge that humor is one of the greatest bonds the two of you have. No matter the focus, a brief moment of sincerity can go a long way.\n\n### Remember: There Aren’t Any Rules.\nJust like with your original [wedding vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-vows) (and [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/) in general), there really are no rules. If you want to write a funny interpretation of a Shakespeare sonnet or create your own poem, go right ahead. If you’d prefer to keep things sentimental with a touch of humor here and there, that works too. If you do what feels right to you, your partner is sure to appreciate the thought behind it.\n\n### Sample Wording to Consider for Your Funny Vows:\n\n“*Ten years ago, I vowed to help you cook more dinners. That might have led to a lot of burnt pizza and the incessant sound of fire alarms, but here we are… and I’m still trying*.”\n\n“*To this day, our wedding remains one of the greatest days of my life. It was also the day I learned that seagulls like steak tartare as much as I do*.”\n\n“*After all these years, I’m so happy that we can still make each other laugh. Your humor has always been one of the greatest lights in my life and can make even the darkest days a little brighter*.”\n\n“*I vow to continue to plan more dates and fail miserably. To continue to pick up your dirty socks and not get upset when you vacuum between my toes while I’m trying to read.*”\n","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Don’t know how to decorate a space for a vow renewal? Our experts at Zola can help! Read on to discover more. ","title":"How to Decorate for a Vow Renewal Ceremony","slug":"how-to-decorate-for-a-vow-renewal-ceremony","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2NH6l2iaZEaPw38esQpXJX/ca8c3b551487d3e7591a18f4a3606df4/Inline_Chensley_Photography__1_.png","altText":"Vow Renewal Ceremony Decorations"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for simple vow renewal ideas? Discover top tips and recommendations from the pros at Zola today. ","title":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas","slug":"simple-vow-renewal-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PZSW1hObQ6TnM557egpbG/3ee842eade872a59be2ffc64a370f857/inline_unsplash__19___1_.jpg","altText":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wondering if you should send wedding renewal invitations? Our experts explain the answer in this comprehensive guide.","title":"10 Ideas For Vow Renewal Invitations","slug":"wedding-renewal-invitations","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4U5YGAECoxGdv1ZwoqNlSN/0d3756933a90c0b091f74d1250b6f894/jeremy-wong-weddings-464ps_nOflw-unsplash.jpg","altText":"older couple vow renewal"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Feeling stuck when it comes to how to write your renewal vows? We can help. Check out our latest tips here.","title":"8 Vow Renewal Wording Tips & Tricks","slug":"vow-renewal-wording-tips-and-tricks","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2OrLAgnlgpNbFhvXjMcFvF/bfc36b0ce58694d9f974aaf302327e30/inline_unsplash__22_.jpg","altText":"How to Write my Vow Renewals"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Celebrate each year and every marriage milestone with traditional wedding anniversary gifts.\n","title":"Anniversary Gifts By Year: What to Give Your Partner and Why","slug":"wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2r5YVBBmqxb2rwtX0ZrjgE/d850a1bf7f7d5109fb4b1c93d433f710/Anniversary_Couple.jpg","altText":"Black man and woman in love celebrating an anniversary"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Check out our latest blog for fun and creative 20th-anniversary ideas! Read our blog for more inspiration. ","title":"20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas","slug":"20th-wedding-anniversary-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/44xqsjrS9WDU3wnTp475xF/06153ab78d0d9f3131e8cbc547c9628d/Inline_unsplash__11_.png","altText":"20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Check out our latest blog to discover our top 35th wedding anniversary ideas. Read our blog for more. ","title":"35 Unique 35th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas","slug":"35th-wedding-anniversary-gift-ideas-that-put-new-spins-on-coral-and-jade","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2rTlkpD9oaAPmb4dOEcKwz/e7500024365df97d78c5338f33be872f/inline_unsplash__25_.jpg","altText":"35 Wedding Anniversary Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"So it’s your wedding anniversary and you want to throw a get-together to celebrate? Read our step-by-step guide for inspiration.","title":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas","slug":"wedding-anniversary-invite-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7IJ6B0KMXmqqXJpoYAxenM/9cebce3e0441a1accfa69aeda9d53965/inline_unsplash.jpg","altText":"Wedding Anniversary Invite Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:50:00.923Z"}],"name":"Anniversaries","slug":"anniversaries","description":"Your guide to celebrating wedding anniversaries! From anniversary gifts by year to celebrating with a vow renewal ceremony, find all the advice and inspiration you need to make every anniversary super special."}],"featured":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Relationship advice","slug":"relationship-advice"},"subtopic":{"name":"Newlywed couples","slug":"newlywed-couples"},"slug":"the-3-best-pieces-of-marriage-advice-according-to-a-marriage-therapist","title":"20 Best Marriage Advice Tips from Experts and Old Couples","excerpt":"We spoke with a marriage therapist and couples about their best marriage advice for engaged couples, newlyweds, and couples celebrating another year of marriage.","author":"McCall Minnor","publishedAt":"2024-03-19T11:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7yk1TfwWjXPYXYiIyuvc4B/a8e8f51ad7935471908fa94113c38734/Hero_MountainDestinationWeddingatTheMagnoliaVenue_HeatherFaulknerPhotograhy.jpg","altText":"Mixed race bride and groom looking at each other lovingly on their big day"},"heroCredit":"Heather Faulkner Photograhy","body":"Marriage isn’t all bliss and riding off into the night after you say your I do’s. While your love for your partner may feel as strong as ever post-nuptials, marriages take effort and a continual choice to honor your vows daily. Make no mistake, this is no easy feat. That’s why there’s no shame in seeking out relationship advice that could aid in keeping your union as strong and healthy as ever.\n\nWe rounded up the [best advice for marriage](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/relationship-advice) from therapists and couples whose love has stood the test of time. See our 20 top marriage advice tips below.\n\n## 1. Marriage is work\n\nYou must be willing to put in the work. “You have to know that love is more than an emotion,” notes Mary Kay Cocharo, licensed marriage and family therapist. Being in a relationship, especially a marriage, needs more than your fondness for one another to last. “People fall in love, so they decide they should be partners and get married,” she says. “And while love is great and propels you into that commitment, it’s just the beginning. It’s not enough. A really good partnership takes commitment and kindness and generosity, and it requires tools like good communication.”\n\n![The 3 Best Pieces of Marriage Advice, According to a Marriage Therapist](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/21YPS00yipioc55eyxZxfr/bba0aaf048616219ca213681145abbc9/inline_unsplash_1_.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n## 2. Listen more\n\nWithout a doubt, every healthy marriage will hit a rough spot, be it internal or external. When that happens, your love for each other will be the thing that makes you want to get through it, but it can’t do all the heavy lifting alone. That’s when you have to be able to have productive conversations, understand your partner’s perspective, and decide how to move forward.\n\n## 3. The honeymoon will end\n\n“When couples get married, those early hormones and chemicals that happen towards the beginning of a relationship—the ones that launch us into commitment—start to wear off. Neuroscientists tell us this happens after about two years,” Cocharo explains. What she’s referring to is a study done by a team from the University of Pisa in Italy. They found that the bodily chemistry that makes people sexually attracted to a new partner lasts, at most, for two years. “They wear off, and now you’re looking at [your partner] and realize, oh, we have differences.”\n\nExpecting this and knowing it’s inevitable (and completely normal) softens the initial blow tremendously. If you recognize this before it happens, you can even work to make sure you have the tools to get through future married life difficulties.\n\n## 4. Use the right tools\n\nLearn and use relationship tools like good communication, healthy boundaries, and actively showing your partner love. These marriage work tools heavily aid in resolving disagreements and getting through those inevitable tough times. “Sometimes couples will hit something difficult and use that to mean they’ve chosen the wrong person or that it’s over. That’s just not true,” Cocharo says.\n\n“It’s hard, and sometimes you don’t have the proper tools. Maybe you didn’t grow up in a situation that taught you about love and respect or being a married partner. In that case, you just need to get the help. You don’t just give up.”\n\nNot sure where to get the tools? Consult a marriage therapist. There are also tons of helpful books, workbooks, workshops, and even phone apps (try [Love Nudge](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.grootersproductions.challenge&hl=en)) you can use to do couples’ exercises and prompt conversations with your partner. So long as you’re willing to seek out help (and you have an internet connection), you have the ability to learn and use the tools that will take your marriage the distance.\n\n## 5. Take care of yourself\n\nAn often overlooked key part of having a successful marriage is taking care of yourself. “When some people get married, they think it’s their partner’s job to take care of them. In reality, everyone is busy and has a lot on their plate—you really do need to put on your own oxygen mask first,” says Cocharo. This isn’t to say that you can’t lean on your partner and vice-versa, but rather that when you get married, you should continue to treat your well-being and self-care as a priority. Don’t expect that responsibility to be handed off to your loved one. Making time for self care assures you’re happy and healthy and lets you bring your best self to the relationship.\n\n“Make sure you’re doing the things that make you a happy, healthy, whole person. Simple things like eating right, exercising, and getting out in nature. Maybe praying or meditating, reading, or whatever calms you down. Also, going to see friends and visiting family,” Cocharo suggests.\n\n## 6. Marriage is 60/40\n\nSome people say marriage is 50/50, but that’s really hard to measure, and it often ends up with both partners feeling shorted. With the [60/40 relationship rule](https://psychiatristsnyc.com/blog/want-a-successful-relationship-practice-this-one-rule/), a marriage is uneven, with both partners feeling like they’re giving 60%. When you put in 60%, “you’re giving your partner love on their terms,” says Mt. Sinai psychiatrist and relationship expert Amanda Itzkoff. “When both partners focus on giving 60% and taking just 40%, the relationship has an overwhelming chance of being successful.”\n\n![Stocksy txp05f31680VSp300 Large 4393583](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/M61DW5GeWvu5fk28aEm4F/6ff9b06201a5df87012dcbd2edecf6bd/Stocksy_txp05f31680VSp300_Large_4393583.jpg)\n\n## 7. Lose the battle, win the war\n\nYou might feel like you *have to get them to mow the lawn today, or if you pay for that new kitchen, you won’t save enough this year*. Go ahead and lose those smaller battles now to build a healthier marriage. As Benjamin Franklin famously said, “If you argue and rankle and contradict, you may achieve a victory sometimes, but it will be an empty victory because you will never get your opponent’s good will.”\n\n## 8. Start counseling before you need it\n\nWaiting until there’s a problem before you start marriage therapy is like waiting to get teeth pulled instead of flossing every night. According to Marriage.com, the [best time to start couple’s therapy](https://www.marriage.com/advice/pre-marriage/when-to-start-pre-marital-counseling/) is as soon as possible, and preferably before you’re married. Think of marriage counseling like coaching, not a sign that something is broken. Choose a good coach, and use it as an opportunity to work on and change yourself—not your partner.\n\n## 9. Listen to audiobooks\n\nOne chief cause of marital stress is endlessly replaying arguments after they have ended. After an argument, the tendency is to stew about it and try to make sense of it. While working to understand is healthy, it can put your emotions on perpetual simmer. Listening to an audiobook while you mow the lawn or do the dishes can keep you from stewing, give your feelings time to reset, and even show you good ideas that can help you strengthen your relationship. Get an Audible subscription or a free app from your local library.\n\n## 10. Eat first, fight later\n\nThis piece of marriage advice is so simple it’s easy to overlook it. Before you talk to your spouse, have a meal or at least a snack. [Eating a meal increases agreeableness](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25770700/) (so your partner is more likely to see your point of view) and reduces dominance and submissiveness (so you’re less likely to be overbearing or give in too easily). Feel a fight coming on? Take a snack break.\n\n## 11. Give grace\n\nSpoiler alert: Your spouse isn’t going to do everything right. In fact, they’ll often do things very wrong. If you keep a tally of every way they’ve let you down, you may win on points, but your relationship will lose. Grace is saying, “You did wrong, but I forgive you, and I love you anyway.” Give your partner a clean slate every day (and every hour). And while you’re at it, give some of that forgiveness to yourself.\n\n![The 3 Best Pieces of Marriage Advice, According to a Marriage Therapist](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1HJfLa2CMijLEdHHEsEu1S/a4c519b7964854f6d9dc505d26ea971a/inline_unsplash.jpg)*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n## 12. Don’t assume\n\nOur brains are good at filling in the blanks. The problem is it’s easy to fill in someone else’s thoughts. That’s why talking without judging, arguing, or adding your opinions is so healthy for relationships. When you let your partner talk, you won’t have to fill in any blanks. You’ll know. Sound easy? It’s not. Active listening is a skill you’ll have to learn, like playing the piano or shooting jump shots. You can start with Kate Murphy’s eye-opening book, *[You’re Not Listening](https://www.amazon.com/Youre-Not-Listening-Missing-Matters/dp/1250779871/ref=asc_df_1250779871/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=507975958237&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4121891810911394376&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009250&hvtargid=pla-927127602652&psc=1&mcid=8b3bcf03afe0323998a173033f904849&gclid=CjwKCAiAs6-sBhBmEiwA1Nl8s6BMtsMauL9PKTvLkL8cIwriOgAOodo2CRdL2l8b-3Dri_GbvanGvhoCsssQAvD_BwE)*.\n\n## 13. Learn to fight\n\nPrediction: you will fight. But—you can fight in a way that weakens your relationship or strengthens it. The secret here is that nobody is born knowing how to fight the right way. And though there’s plenty of great advice online (be respectful, take a break if things get heated, use active listening), they’re easier said than done. So, consider taking a class on how to fight. Some marriage counselors and churches offer fighting classes for couples, and the online [Couples Fight School](https://masteringconflict.com/couples-fight-school/) can be a fun, rewarding experience for both of you.\n\n## 14. Learn to apologize\n\nWe all know we should eat humble pie from time to time, but did you know there’s a right way and a wrong way? The key is to accept full responsibility (no buts), then take your lumps. Expect your partner to unload on you after you say you’re sorry and accept it with more listening. Then, be willing to make it right, give in, and give up something you thought you really wanted. (What’s more important, winning the argument or your marriage?)\n\n## 15. Be a team\n\nYou’re in this together. While this may sound like cliche marriage advice, the key point is to see problems as both of you vs the problem, not both of you against each other. Don’t blame each other. For a little inspiration, see this *Atlantic* article: [Marriage Is a Team Sport](https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2022/11/how-collaboration-can-improve-marriage-relationships/672048/).\n\n## 16. Spend now or spend later\n\nIs it too expensive to take your spouse out to eat once a week? Is time precious to you? You may want to spend time or money on things that set you up for a good life later, but what good will it do you if there’s nobody there to share it with? Spend a big chunk of your time and money on your spouse now, even if it’s not the smartest play for your career or finances. If you don’t, you may spend it later in divorce proceedings and custody arrangements.\n\n![newly engaged couple in debt](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7GFbYLisIT4eBAT2WM3y31/247792361f0df7f70e34e6d542dffcb1/HERO_Unsplash_1080x720__6_.jpg)\n\n## 17. Love is a decision, not a feeling\n\nIf you don’t feel loved, you may mistakenly conclude your marriage is a failure. And while [most couples](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/64-percent-of-americans-say-theyre-happy-in-their-relationships-300595502.html) report being happy with their marriages, there will undoubtedly be times you don’t feel loved at all. When that happens, take comfort in knowing that [love is more of a choice](https://psychcentral.com/relationships/love-is-a-choice-more-than-a-feeling) than a feeling. To choose from the heart, read the Amazon bestseller *[Love Is a Decision](https://www.amazon.com/Love-Decision-Gary-Smalley/dp/0849942683)* by marriage counselor Gary Smalley.\n\n## 18. Let them grow\n\n“You’re not the woman I married.” Surprise—she won’t be. In fact, 90% of adults will change at *least* one major personality trait in the next few years. So, if your marriage lasts 50 years, you might end up married to a completely different person from the one you said “I do” to. The gold nugget of marriage advice here is to accept that from the start. Instead of resisting change, expect it, celebrate it, and accept it.\n\n## 19. Just show up\n\nYou don’t have to have an opinion on every issue or a solution to every problem. You don’t even need to say something every time there’s a lull in the conversation. Sometimes, just your presence can show you’re there for your partner, and that can win their goodwill. That’s a lot better than looking like you have all the answers.\n\n## 20. You can’t fix them, so don’t\n\nYour partner is going to have flaws, and some of them will be big. You can encourage and support them, but you can’t repair their damage. While this can be a hard pill to swallow, you married them, not the person they could be. You can help that medicine go down by acknowledging your own flaws and spending some time reflecting on their strengths. Accept and honor who they are, [along with your differences](https://www.stanfordcouplescounseling.com/rebuilding-emotional-safety-strengthening-your-relationship-by-accepting-your-partners-differences-part-3/).\n\nAlthough we here at Zola concentrate on wedding planning, we also realize that your celebration is a small part of your lifetime together. While you’re [choosing flowers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-most-popular-wedding-flowers), arranging the [ceremony](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-the-wedding-ceremony-order-of-events), and planning the [honeymoon](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/best-honeymoon-destinations), don’t forget that your wedding is the start of a lifetime together. We want to give you the best start you can have—from the planning stages of your engagement to the start of a beautiful life partnership. ","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"What are the most important things in a long, healthy relationship? Read on to find out now. ","title":"18 Things That Are Important In a Relationship","slug":"what-are-the-5-most-important-things-in-a-relationship","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2tRMjQG9NUdJdwEjUjdprR/76dcb8f489b13a16d5ff396dc6fcad62/18-Things-That-Are-Important-In-a-Relationship-.jpg","altText":"Most Important Things in a Relationship"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Want to find out where your partner stands on marriage, but not sure how to broach the subject? 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