I got engaged at 20 and married at 22.That time went very quickly,it was a whirlwind of white,excitement and trying to find buttonholes!Life has only got better since that amazing day,but I thought I'd share with you some things I have noticed people say and my thoughts on this life changing experience.
1. "Well,I heard that 50% of marriages end in divorce?"
I'm not too sure of the current statistics,but people definitely like to quote them! I think that no matter what age you are,there is obviously some chance of it not working out.I think what matter is your attitude and awareness of the problems that you might need to face together. I've know family friends be married for 40+ years and then split.
2."Why don't you ask your sister?"
The amount of people who mistake me for Sam's sister! I find it really amusing when he has to correct them saying that I'm his wife.Cue surprised looks and "oh,you're quite young aren't you?".I just smile,I can't complain if they think I look younger than I am,can I?
3."When are you having kids?"
I think anyone who is married or planning to gets this.One thing at a time please! We will have kids in our own time,I would like to spend some time together and make sure we have everything in place,before we bring another person into this!
4."Wait until you've been married 40 years,and then see how you feel!"
Ok! I'm sure I'll be very happy.I look forward to us sitting in armchairs with our slippers on,complaining about the youth of today.
5."You didn't take his last name,did you?"
Yes I did! I've wanted to be Mrs Wilkes for 10 years so I was more than happy to take his name.I love that it is something we share,and a permanent reminder (along with the rings!).Some people don't,some people do. I'veI've heard some lovely names double barrelled.When Dawn Porter married Chris O'Dowd she changed her name to O'Porter.There are tons of options and only choose what is right for both of you.
I know 90% of these are in good humour,and they don't bother me at all.I know I've made the best decision of my life and I couldn't be happier.The average age for women to marry in the UK is 28 so I'm a little younger than usual,but I think as long as you're two consenting adults in love,who cares!Whether you marry a man or woman,or you don't marry at all.Your happiness is the main thing and that doesn't have to come from a marriage or a relationship.
Find happiness in everyday!
