So, you’ve been dodging your aunt’s not-so-subtle Thanksgiving dinner interrogations for three years straight. Your Pinterest board is an overwhelming labyrinth of wedding themes, ranging from “boho forest fairy” to “old money aesthetic.” And let’s be real, you’ve already mentally crafted the perfect Instagram caption for your engagement announcement. (“Forever starts now ” or something equally adorable, obviously.)
But before you start aggressively dropping hints about ring styles and conveniently scheduling “casual” strolls past the nearest jewelry store, let’s make sure your relationship is actually ready for marriage. Because while love is blind, divorce lawyers sure aren’t.
Here are nine surefire signs that you and your partner are the real deal and not just starring in a long-term rom-com with no third act
1. You’ve Survived an IKEA Trip Together
If you two have made it out of an IKEA visit without considering a breakup, or, worse, homicide, congratulations! Navigating the labyrinth of “LÖVBACKEN” end tables while debating the right shade of beige is basically the relationship Olympics. Bonus points if you assembled furniture together and didn’t end up sleeping in separate rooms afterward.
2. You Actually Like Each Other When You’re Hangry
Being in love when you’re well-fed and emotionally stable? Easy. But when both of you are one empty stomach away from committing a crime, do you still like each other? If you can survive a road trip with no snacks or a restaurant wait time of over an hour without exchanging death glares, you’re golden.
3. You’ve Mastered the Art of the Petty Argument
Look, marriage isn’t about never arguing. It’s about knowing which dumb fights are worth fighting. You both understand that “leaving the cabinet doors open” is an act of war, but also that some battles are best left unfought, like whether or not Ross and Rachel were really on a break (you’ll never agree, and that’s okay).
4. You Trust Each Other with the Netflix Password
Sharing a streaming account is one thing. Trusting your partner not to watch your show without you? That’s sacred. If you can confidently say that neither of you would betray the other by sneakily skipping ahead on a binge-worthy series, you’ve got the loyalty part of marriage down.
5. You Can Tolerate Each Other’s Families (Or at Least Fake It Well)
Let’s be honest: No one’s family is perfect. If you can survive awkward dinners, unsolicited life advice, and that one relative who thinks marriage means you now “belong” to their side, you’re in good shape. Extra credit if you both have a shared “safe word” for when it’s time to gracefully exit a family gathering.
6. You’ve Had the Big Talks (Without Running for the Hills)
Kids or no kids? Where will you live? What’s the realistic budget for your dream wedding? If you’ve tackled these major life conversations and neither of you has ghosted the other afterward, that’s a solid sign you’re on the same page (or at least reading from the same book).
7. You’ve Seen Each Other at Your Absolute Worst
It’s easy to love someone when they’re looking like a Pinterest model on date night. But has he seen you ugly cry over a TikTok dog video? Have you witnessed his deathly ill, DayQuil-fueled man flu? If you’ve seen each other in full-blown chaos and still find each other attractive, you’re in it for the long haul.
8. You Can Talk About Money Without Needing Therapy Afterward
Financial stress is a leading cause of divorce, so if you two can openly discuss spending habits, savings goals, and why one of you insists on ordering $7 oat milk lattes daily, you’re already ahead of the game. Transparency is key, especially when it comes to budgeting for the outrageous cost of wedding florals.
9. You’re Not Just in Love, You’re Best Friends
At the end of the day, love is great, but friendship is what keeps things steady. Can you laugh together over absolutely nothing? Do you genuinely enjoy each other’s company even when nothing exciting is happening? If your relationship feels like a rom-com and a buddy movie, you’re in a good place.
So, Are You Ready to Say “I Do”?
If you nodded along to most of these, congrats! Your relationship is probably strong enough for marriage. If not… well, at least you have a solid Netflix queue to keep you company while you figure things out.
Now, spill the tea: What’s your ultimate sign that a relationship is marriage-ready? Share your wisdom (or horror stories) in the comments!