“I take you to be my lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, or for worse, for richer, or for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.”

The ambiance is perfect–the happy couple in the front of the church, the beautiful stained glass windows, and people dressed in their best clothes. The appearance of wedding is absolutely flawless. The audience is silent, with a couple of sniffles and sobs here and there.

I attended my first wedding not so long ago, and in all honesty, it was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The time, thought, and detail that goes into weddings is astounding. The individuals that were committing themselves to each other have been together for nearly five years now, and extremely in love.

Growing up, many of my friends have been planning their wedding day. Blue decorations, perfect curls, flawless makeup, and Prince Charming awaiting their arrival down the aisle. I, on the other hand, have always had a different mentality toward marriage. Sure, the scene is beautiful, but I do not consider it necessary to plan something as big as a lifelong commitment to someone this early.

Marriage is a responsibility that does not need to be rushed; it is something to consider after knowing a person for a fairly decent amount of time, and it most definitely does not need to be forced. I am not trying to sound like Debbie Downer in any way, shape, or form, but my viewpoint on marriage is simple: it will happen when the time is clearly right.

A ring and a certificate does not necessarily need to be proof that you are in love and committed to someone; as a matter of fact, commitment would be proven in a more legitimate manner if a couple was together for more than five years before marriage. I respect the girls that do have their wedding plans already, but I simply do not think this is rational or realistic.

On the other hand, promise rings could be the alternative to wedding rings, as they symbolize commitment in a similar way. I have noticed a trend in promise rings lately, and I do believe they are quite charming for young couples in high school. But, who said promise rings are not a good idea for older couples, as well?

Maybe one day my prince charming will come along, and we will have the wedding of the century, but until then, I am definitely not stressing myself out with plans and expectations. There is a time and a place for everything, so I am not rushing to my happily ever after.