When Richard and I meet new people, they’re often surprised to find out that we’re both only 22 years old. We’re sometimes perceived as being older, simply because we’re already homeowners and also engaged to be married in September. Getting married young can be somewhat controversial, and many people question what the best age to get married really is…
That’s why today I thought I’d share a little bit of insight on our relationship and some of my thoughts on getting married young. Plus, I totally needed an excuse to share our beautiful engagement photos! We’re doing a two-year engagement, so we waited about a year from when Richard proposed to shoot these. I’m absolutely thrilled with how they turned out, and there will actually be two more blog posts sharing the rest of the photos (my favorites are going to be in the third post — so stay tuned!).
P.S. If you’re in the upstate New York area (or anywhere really, because she travels!), make sure you check out Natalie Sinisgalli Photography. Ever since she shot my senior portraits four years ago, I dreamed of the day when she’d get to photograph my engagement and wedding photos…now that time is finally here, and I’m so excited to share!
Why I’m Getting Married Young (+ What is the Best Age to Get Married?)
Why I’m Getting Married Young
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average age most women begin their first marriage as of 2017 was 27.4 years old. So, it’s pretty safe to say I’m not your average 22 year old when it comes to my relationship status. I wouldn’t have it any other way, though.
The truth is, Richard and I have been together as a couple for over six years. We’ve known each other for eight. It always sounds cliche, but when you know…well, you know.
Getting married young was also a decision R. and I based off of our life plans and goals for the next 5-10 years. We knew we wanted to buy a house young, and we’d also like to have at least one child before we’re 30. It’s also important to me that we get to enjoy married life for awhile before having kids. So, getting married young seemed to make a lot of sense to both of us once we established these goals.
What’s the Best Age to Get Married?
So many people wonder (and also argue over) what the best age to get married really is. I think we all know the answer deep down, and that is that there is no right answer to this question. I think there’s definitely a pressure for women to settle down, simply given our reproductive timeline.
I’m of a firm belief however that there’s a plan for everyone. There’s no forcing it when it comes to finding “the one”. There’s no real best age to get married, because the best age to get married is whenever you find that person that is your best friend, true love, and lifelong companion all wrapped in one. You could be 16, like I was when Richard and I started dating, or you could be 40. Some things are just out of our control.
My Thoughts on Getting Married Young
Overall, I think getting married young is a great choice for some people. While I don’t think it’s for people who haven’t really gotten to know each other yet or who are still in that “honeymoon” phase of their relationship, it’s a wonderful step when both people are ready to commit to each other for life.
Sometimes people get so wrapped up in planning a wedding, that they forget what it’s really about. My advice would be to just make sure you’re getting married for the right reasons, and that you and your partner are both on the same page about what you want throughout your lifetime, not just during this season.
That about wraps it up for my thoughts on getting married young! I feel like our wedding is going to come up so quickly, and I’m starting to get both excited and nervous. I can’t wait to share more of the process with you guys though, and make sure you check back for more of our engagement photos coming soon!
Hint: Think 1920s GLAM.
Until then…
What are your thoughts on getting married young? Do you think there’s a best age to get married?
