Most wedding checklists cover the big stuff—but there are a few important steps couples often forget. Two big things your wedding checklist probably didn’t include:

• Book marriage prep at the same time you book the venue.
• Budget for an honorarium to thank your officiant for the time, preparation, and heart they put into the ceremony.

These simple steps can make your day smoother and your marriage stronger.

Click here to read this blog and see what else might be missing from your wedding planning checklist!

KEYWORDS:

wedding checklist, wedding planning tips, wedding officiant, wedding officiant cost, honorarium for wedding officiant, paying wedding officiant, marriage preparation, premarital counseling, wedding budget tips, wedding ceremony planning, wedding planning advice, Christian wedding officiant, engaged couple advice, wedding planning guide

[3 min read]

In a world full of counterfeit identities and shifting standards, it’s easy to lose sight of who you really are. Discover how to anchor your worth in something real and lasting — your God-given identity. This blog will help you discern truth from the fakes and live with confidence and purpose in every season of life.

If you are in a dating relationship and want to know if you are ready to take the next step, our book Before Forever can help.

Find out how you know that you know.

Keywords:

identity, self-worth, twenties and thirties, counterfeit identity, Christian identity, finding purpose, God’s handiwork, spiritual growth, discerning truth, life transitions, faith and career, biblical truth, young adults, Christ-centered living, authentic living

[2 min read]

Chaos doesn't mean your relationship is doomed—it's an opportunity for growth and deeper connection. Byron and Carla’s story shows how stress reveals the real you, but with God’s guidance, relationships evolve into something beautiful. Learn how navigating life’s messiness together builds lasting love.

Want more support? Read our book Before Forever: How do you know that you know

KEYWORDS:  Chaos, Relationship, Conflict, Stress, Love, Conflict Resolution, Disappointment, Growth, Blind Spots, God, Faith, Conflict Management

[2 min read]

/dating

It’s the most common—and confusing—piece of dating advice out there: “Oh, you’ll just know.”

Really?

This blog explores the complexity behind the common advice of "just knowing" when it comes to marriage. It highlights the importance of discernment, the role of questions, and the need for growth in relationships rather than relying solely on attraction or intuition.

Want more? Read our book Before Forever: How do you know that you know

KEYWORDS: Attraction, Compatibility, Infatuation, Marriage, Wisdom, Discernment, List, Relationship, Intuition, Growth, Questions, Decision, Trust, Values, Clarity

This blog challenges the idea of "just knowing" when it comes to marriage, sharing a personal story about the importance of time, reflection, and trusting God’s guidance. True certainty comes not from impulsive feelings but from growth, prayer, and shared values in a relationship.

Trying to determine if he/she is the right one? Read our book Before Forever: How do you know that you know

Keywords:

Marriage, Dating, Engagement, Relationships, Wisdom, Discernment, Faith, Love, Commitment, Trust, Emotion, Guidance, Prayer, Attraction, Character

[2 min. read]

As years pass, the initial spark in a marriage can fade, leading couples to experience moments of silence and routine. To cultivate a lasting bond, it’s crucial to nurture the relationship through small daily gestures, shared laughter, and mutual prayer. Intentionality in marriage can transform a relationship into a deep, meaningful connection. Read this blog.

Sex in marriage is God’s design—meant to be passionate, fulfilling, and free from shame. Yet, many couples struggle with unhealthy expectations and cultural distortions. This blog offers Christian relationship advice on emotional and spiritual intimacy, practical tips for a healthy sex life, and insights from Legacy Countdown Online to help couples build a strong, faith-based marriage. Whether you’re engaged or married, discover how to embrace intimacy God’s way.

You can also watch session from our previous Legacy Marriage Conference -- Sex Talks. Check it out.

Keywords: Christian, marriage, sex, intimacy, God, relationship, advice, counseling, premarital, spiritual, emotional, faith-based, couple, love, connection, God’s design for sex, sex in marriage, Christian relationship advice, premarital counseling, online marriage prep, Legacy Countdown Online, emotional intimacy, marriage license, sex

[2 min. read]

Managing money as an engaged couple is essential for a strong marriage and lasting financial peace. This blog explores practical budgeting tips, smart planning, and Christian principles to help couples avoid debt and build a solid financial foundation. Start your journey together with wisdom, stewardship, and confidence!

Keywords:

Marriage, money, financial, peace, budgeting, engaged, couples, Christian, planning, debt

[3 min. read]

Strengthening your marriage requires intentional growth, reflection, and a commitment to faith. By practicing self-reflection, living faithfully in every season, and inviting God to guide your journey, you can build a marriage that’s resilient and deeply connected. Embracing these habits can lead to lasting growth as a couple. Resources with structured reflections and faith-based guidance can help you and your spouse cultivate a marriage grounded in love and purpose.

Keywords:

strengthen marriage, Christian marriage growth, faith-based marriage, marriage self-reflection, godly marriage habits, Christian couples guidance, resilient marriage, faith-filled relationship, Legacy Family Ministries, biblical marriage growth, Christian marriage journey

[2 min. read]

The jokes are rampant. The pressure causes misperception.

What is crazy…

         The average age to marry in America is 28 for men and 26.5 for women.

Studies have proven that marital satisfaction increases and the divorce rate decreases when husband and wife...   

[3 min. read]

Discover the sobering truth behind the rising costs of weddings in the United States today. With expenses averaging between $33,000 to $35,000, modern couples face daunting financial pressures as they plan their dream day. From extravagant venues to personalized details driven by social media influence, the wedding industry demands a substantial investment. 

However, Legacy Countdown offers more than just preparation for the big day. Rooted in Christian principles, our marriage preparation program equips couples with essential tools—like communication, conflict resolution, financial planning, emotional intimacy, and a foundation in Christ—to build a resilient and fulfilling partnership that lasts beyond the ceremony. 

Prepare wisely with Legacy Countdown and embark on a journey of commitment and growth in marriage.

Keywords: cost of weddings, wedding expenses, wedding planning, marriage preparation, wedding budget, wedding trends, social media influence

[3 min read]

This blog post discusses how to discern if someone is “the one” for marriage, emphasizing the importance of trusting God’s guidance over fleeting emotions in dating. It encourages readers to take time, seek spiritual direction, and embrace uncertainty in their relationship journey. By focusing on faith and patience, individuals can navigate love with greater clarity and purpose in finding a Christian spouse.

Keywords:  relationships, discernment, faith, guidance, marriage, love, mate selection, engagement, spirtituality, connection, faith-based relationship tips

[2 min read]

Marriage can feel overwhelming at times, but finding peace is possible—even in challenging seasons. By focusing on what you can control, learning to accept what you can't, and seeking God’s wisdom together, you can approach marriage with renewed strength and calm. Embracing these principles can help bring peace to your relationship, no matter the circumstances. Resources that offer guided reflections and biblical insights can be valuable for couples looking to navigate challenges with faith and intention.

Keywords:

Christian marriage peace, faith in marriage, marriage challenges, finding peace in marriage, Christian relationship guidance, godly marriage advice, Christian marriage growth, marriage wisdom for couples, Legacy Family Ministries, peace in Christian marriage, faith-based marriage support

[2 min. read]

When considering a marriage partner, it's essential to look beyond superficial qualities and focus on deeper attributes like character, values, and shared goals. While it's natural to have a list of desired traits, be open to God's guidance, as His plans might differ from ours but ultimately lead to a more fulfilling relationship.

Prioritize qualities that foster a strong, lasting bond, and trust that seeking wisdom through prayer will help you find the right match. Embrace the journey with faith and an open heart for a truly meaningful partnership.

Keywords: mate selection, finding the one, choosing a partner, marriage qualities, getting married, engagement, proposal    

[2 min. read]

Getting married? Have you thought about pre-marital counseling? Here are 4 tips to help you maximize your pre-marital experience from the couple who helped prepare Chip and Joanna Gaines for marriage.

As the wedding countdown begins for you, we hope marriage will be as rewarding and fulfilling for you as it has been for us.

Before we dive in, we would want you to consider using a term the church has used for centuries – marriage preparation – instead of pre-marital counseling.

Think of marriage prep more as educational not mental health/wellness. Additional individual or couple counseling may be needed to deal with past hurts or issues like anxiety, sexual abuse, depression or father wounds, but this requires a trained licensed professional.

[2 min. read]

Empty nest.

For us this may have been a bigger change than when we welcomed our first baby home. Oh, we longed for a quiet house and an evening of adult conversation – just the two of us.

Yet, we have learned to invest into the next generation through wisdom, meaningful stories, and biblical teaching.

Discover practical insights on how to live life to the fullest by sharing your experiences, offering guidance, and leaving a lasting legacy of faith. Join us in turning the empty nest into a season of purposeful mentorship and impactful Kingdom work.

Keywords: empty nest, mentoring, biblical principles, wisdom, legacy, faith, younger generation, Kingdom work.

[4 min read]

3 THINGS LEARNED FROM THE LONGEST AND HARDEST WALK EVER TAKEN

Two of my children were married within six weeks. My youngest daughter’s wedding was first.

Now more than ever, I believe one of the most overlooked segments of a wedding is the transfer of the bride from father to new husband.

[4 min. read]

5 Things I Know About Being the Father of the Groom

[4 min. read]

December might just be the most romantic month of the year—and the most popular time to get engaged. But is this your moment to say “yes”? From cozy winter nights to celebrating with family, we unpack four reasons why the holiday season might be the perfect time to take the next step. We’ll also share how to know if you’re truly ready for forever—beyond the sparkle of the season.

Read this blog to find out if it’s time to make your holiday one to remember!

Keywords
holiday engagements, December proposals, should I get engaged, best time to get engaged, Christian engagement advice, engagement season, proposing during Christmas, holiday proposal ideas, engagement readiness, engagement and faith, getting engaged in December, engagement and family time, proposal timing, new year proposal, Christian dating advice

[4 min read]