This week in class was probably one of my weeks of school.  I loved talking about dating and marriage.  In class we learned that the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $27,800. This was so astounding to me! In today's world we are seeing new marriage trends that are arising and becoming more prevalent. Less women are getting married.  People are getting married later.  Men and women are becoming equal money contributors. Divorce is also increasing. The solution to most marital problems is to keep dating.  There are 4 different stages to reaching a happy marriage.  The first is dating.  This is when you go on a lot of dates with a lot of people.  During this time you shouldn't be tied down to anyone.  Once you find someone you really like you move on to the second stage which is courtship.  This is when you are exclusively dating one person.  This is a trial stage.  You keep dating and practice decision making together.  The next stage is the engagement.  This is when you have a ring and a date.  You continue to date.  This is a time to plan your marriage.  Most people spend more time planning their wedding than their actual marriage. The last stage is marriage.  During marriage you learn to rely upon each other.  Apply problem solving skills and practice sacrifice. Learn to establish boundaries.  Learn intimacy together.