You're engaged. The date is set. The biggest, happiest day of your life is just a few months away.

Bliss becomes burden as you feel the pressure of wedding planning. Your gown, formalwear, dates, deposits. Banquet hall or caterer? Band or DJ? Where to honeymoon? Who's in the bridal party? Flower selection, budget decisions, guest list.

After the big day, so many brides sigh, "The day just flew by!" Couples realize they invested dozens of man-hours, over a several month period, planning an event that lasts just one day. And when the party's over, reality sets in — We're married now!

A wedding is a complex event. There are many elements to coordinate, decisions to make and deadlines to meet to make your day the memorable experience you want it to be. This once-in-a-lifetime celebration deserves your attention. But, are you forgetting something?

Let's do a little cost-benefit analysis. How long will you be married to your future partner? Thirty, forty, fifty years? That's a long time. Is the time you expect to be married, proportional to the time you've invested in marriage preparation? Are you investing disproportionate time planning your wedding day?

Think past the wedding. What will marriage really be like? Do you really know your future partner? What baggage are you both bringing in to the relationship? Are you compatible? How do you prepare for the inevitable speed bumps ahead? What are your odds for success in this divorce-crazy world?

Put your plans on pause and invest in something that matters —your marriage.