5 Things to Know if You’re in College and Thinking About Getting Engaged

So, you’ve been bitten by the wedding bug after seeing countless ads for beautiful engagement rings and the gorgeous weddings that come along with them. Winter is no doubt the time of love, surprises, and commitments. When you’re in college, depending on how far into it you are, you probably have friends or know people from high school who are engaged, if not already married.

If you’re thinking about doing the same, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Planning a wedding is STRESSFUL

You know all the hours you spend in class, doing homework, studying, stressing? Well, be prepared for that to double, if not triple, when it comes to planning a wedding. Dealing with school is hard enough as it is. Adding wedding planning on top of that is a whole different level of hard work. You have to shop for dresses, find a caterer, pick flowers, colors, food for the reception, venues…even if you’re planning a small wedding or hire a wedding planner, a lot goes into it. Expect to always be juggling something!

2. Your living situation can change

Are you going to move in together? Are you going to stay in the same town as your college or close by? Moving can be just as stressful as anything else on the planet. Things don’t always go according to plan, and it can cause you to skip out on class or not put in as much effort as you should.

3. Are you financially stable enough to get married?

Paying for school is hard. Paying for a wedding is hard. Are you able to afford it while also paying for school? Make sure you have your priorities straight and are budgeting accordingly.

4. Expect to talk A LOT about the wedding

Almost immediately after your engagement announcement, you will get asked if you started planning the wedding, where you’re going to have it, what your colors will be, what your dress will look like, and the list goes on. And the questions won’t stop until after your wedding reception if you so choose to have one. It goes back to #1 – you’re going to have a lot on your plate, so make sure you and your fiancé are prepared for it!.

5. Don’t forget about normal relationship drama

You and your significant other will fight about things big and small. You’ll be tense, they’ll be tense, all because of the stress of the wedding on top of everything else. Be sure to take time to care for yourself and your fiancé. Go on dates, stay in and snuggle on the couch, stay positive, and support each other.

Getting engaged is a huge milestone in life, and so is being in college. Make sure you’re ready for both by keeping these tips in mind!