Statistics show that nearly one in five marriages is headed for divorce. While the divorce rate is at an all time high, bridal jewelry sales is at an all time low. Why? At this very moment, hundreds of thousands of weddings are being planned. Many reports have been made of couples who get “cold feet” just before the wedding. What causes “cold feet”? Lack of preparation is definitely at the top of the list–preparation in terms of marriage that is.

Getting married is a life-changing decision. There is nothing more exciting than to hear the announcement of a wedding engagement. While it is exciting to shop for wedding gowns, bridal jewelry, and wonderful wedding favors, it is also important to invest time into the long-term relationship. No one wants to admit just how scary marriage really is. A major reason why individuals or couples get “cold feet” is that they have not been honest about their feelings. Being honest about marriage includes expressing one’s fears.

There are some helpful ways in which to avoid getting “cold feet”. For example, it is best not to rush into marriage. Some couples make the mistake of hastily deciding to get married based on emotions, a baby on the way, or pressure from friends and family. Deciding to get married is far more monumental than deciding on a bridal jewelry set or wedding favors. It is important to recognize that marriage is a decision to be made carefully. Further, it should never be a result of other people’s feelings.

Marriage is a life-long journey. With this said, it may help to seek premarital counseling. Most professional marriage counselors have a substantial amount of experience with successful marriages. Getting advice from such individuals or couples can be advantageous. While your wedding planner may tell you that your bridal jewelry does not accent your wedding attire properly, your marriage counselor may tell you that your partner does or does not compliment your personality. It is best to find out before it is too late.

Many brides take on the majority of the wedding planning. One way to bring a couple closer is to spend time planning the wedding together. By planning the wedding as a team, couples can get practice on working together in a marriage. Of course, deciding on when to have children or applying for a home equity loan far exceeds the magnitude of choosing wedding jewelry. The point to be made is that marriage is a union between two individuals. It is important that the two learn to work as a team. This is a key element to a successful marriage. If couples take the necessary precautions before taking the plunge, they may not get “cold feet” after all.

About the Author
Michelle Lindsey writes for Bridesmaids Gifts and Bridal JewelrySilverland Jewelry- a bridesmaid jewelry gift store.“>Silverland Jewelry- a bridesmaid jewelry gift store.