What do you think of when I say “premarital course”? Most people imagine a class you take to discuss “should the cups go rim down or rim up in the cupboard?” (it’s rim down, by the way, and no, we’re not taking comments on this at this time) or “who should be responsible for paying the bills? who does the dishes?”

But that’s not what I mean when I say “premarital course”.

What my Premarital Course ISN’T

I assume that you already have a life together. Most couples who come to me have been together for years and have usually lived together for quite a while before they discussed marriage. So what we’re going to do in my Premarital Course is not to hash out daily chores and how they should be done and by whom. I assume that you have that part sorted by now!

And even though I’m a minister, I don’t come at this from a religious foundation. I guide you through my Premarital Course focused on *your* worldviews — be that secular, spiritual, interfaith, or religious — using my years of experience to help you in your marriage.

What my Premarital Course IS

I designed this course with Husband the Therapist. It is focused on helping you communicate and fight more effectively. Yes, *fight* more *effectively*. What I can tell you after 18 years of marriage to the same person is that you will be fighting the same fundamental fights for most, if not all, of your relationship. Yes, really! But, before you argue or run away (as I wanted to the first time I heard that), what I want to do is teach you how to engage each other so that your fights don’t leave you feeling hurt, angry, or bitter even after you “make up”. Instead, I want to teach you how to have your fights end well by bringing you closer together.

I offer a Premarital Course because various studies have shown a decreased divorce rate of 30-50% in the first five years of marriage among couples who pursue premarital education. While divorce is not the end of the world, it can be a very painful experience that most of us want to avoid if possible. This means going into marriage with a realistic set of skills, tools, and expectations that set us up for success as much as possible.

If you’re reading that and feeling intrigued or surprised, we have more to talk about!

What does your Premarital Course look like?

First, the course is a commitment and it’s designed to be! The Premarital Course is done in 6 sessions over 3 months. During that time, I’ll get to know you two and walk you through different steps and lessons to improve communication with your partner. While yes, there is a curriculum, it will be heavily adapted and customized to you and your needs as individuals and a couple. We’ll cover topics like Personality, Attachment Theory, Stress Reducing Conversations, Active Listening, Relationship Rituals, and so much more.

How much does your Premarital Course cost?

It is $899 USD for the course, which can be paid in monthly installments of $299 over three months.

How do I sign up for your Premarital Course?

If you are already one of the couples I’m officiating for, go to letsgetmarriedbymarie.com/book-now and use the password you were previously provided to fill out the booking form.

If you are not one of the couples I’m officiating for, please fill out the contact form below to find out if we’re a good fit.