24 Things You Absolutely, Positively Must Do Before Saying I Do

Sure, romantic dinners are great for a fledgling romance, but as you start your new journey as newlyweds, you're going to need to plan for the long-term. Cooking delicious meals at home is more than a money saver; it's also a great way to bond as a couple.

Want to make it more fun? Add one of the best outdoor pizza ovens to your registry so you can make picnic-style, restaurant-quality date nights at home.

Chances are you're going to be entertaining guests — either for a casual meet and greet or during the holidays. Having a signature dish will help ensure you've got something delicious to serve when your in-laws stop over with a jello salad.

Weekends away will help build lasting memories for years to come. It's also an excellent opportunity to get to know your partner in a new setting, away from the distractions of your day-to-day lives.

As in yours, his and your collective home one. Also, now is the time to get all the money matters on the table, don't hide any debt!

A new life phase equals new stuff. You're building a life as a couple, and while it's important to hold on to mementos from your past, you don't need to keep every trinket that's been in a box for years.

Even if you're a master of the dance floor, it's a fun thing to do as a couple. Taking dance lessons is another unique way to grow together as a couple and can help lead to spontaneous romantic moments.

It's surprising how many couples aren't on the same page about this one before saying "I do.' Respect your partner's feelings and know people's attitudes toward children evolve over time but don't set a hard and fast rule.

Dogs? Cats? Ferrets? Birds? Are you aligned in your pet choices? Pets are like kids and can be a great precursor to babies, but they're also a lot of responsibility. Maybe she's already got a pooch? Consider giving her one of the best gifts for dog moms as a show of support.

Nightly bath? Workout? Meditation sesh? It's important to keep your body and mind active. Find your groove and stick to it.

Hopefully, you still like the person on return! You don't truly know someone until you travel (or live) with someone! You'll be ready to hit the all-inclusive resorts for families 10 years from now if you've already mastered the art of couples travel.

What will each of you be responsible for on the day-to-day running of the household? (i.e., laundry, cooking, cleaning, bill paying, outdoor maintenance). Running a house isn't a job for one; it's a team task!

Not sure where to start? Invest in the best washers and dryers, dishwashers and other appliances at the start of your marriage if you can. That way these tasks will feel less like chores.

It sounds terribly old-fashioned, but classes can actually be interesting and informative and make you think about what this new life phase means and entails. It's not easy.

For under your gown, your wedding night, your new married life. Little things mean a lot.

While it can be a little unnerving to start planning for the future, a healthy life is a happy life.

Independence is a cornerstone of a healthy relationship, and long distance is not easy but, in most cases, makes the heart grow founder. It's important for each of you to bring your unique life experiences to the relationship; that's what makes you you!

Just you and them. You're going to be spending years with your in-laws, and if all goes well, hopefully, you'll feel like part of the family soon enough.

A lot of time and effort was spent finding the perfect engagement ring, and you'll want it looking fresh and fabulous for your wedding day.

Yes, you'll be receiving gifts from friends, family, and strangers. Celebrating each other with a unique keepsake before the main event is essential.

Great glam should never be wasted! Book a reservation, and have a fancy dinner. You'll feel like a million bucks.

But also open a joint one to access for everyday costs. Also, wedding guests will make cheques out in both your names, so you need to be able to cash and stash those!

Take time to travel with your girls and enjoy all the fun they bring to your life. BTW, this shouldn't stop when you are married—girls' trips are essential for keeping you grounded.

You don't want to end up looking like Robert Redford by the time you're 35. Skin care's important not just for your wedding day, but for life! Also, SPF daily… just do it!

It's the most stressful time of the year, and your families will want every second you can give them. Think about how you will juggle commitments and make a plan to stick to it.

Being engaged is great! You'll get to learn what makes each other tick during challenging times, celebrate each other's wins, and lean on your partner in times of need. It's just the first step on the road of your life journey together!