I grew up watching princess movies, taking regular trips to Disneyland and I was set on marrying my Prince Charming from a young age. All I wanted was to live in a castle and have a beautiful husband, an army of singing woodland friends and a closet full of ball gowns.
It was fun to think that way for a while, but eventually I had to grow up and realize that I probably wouldn't live in a castle, and bunnies definitely couldn't sing. But one thing stayed the same - I wanted a man who would treat me like a princess.
Luckily I was able to find that man, but even then, marriage isn't exactly like the fairy tales. It's messy, and sometimes Cinderella and Prince Charming fight ... and it's not pretty. Although marriage isn't exactly like a Disney movie, you can still make it magical by doing these nine things:
1. Make time for each other
Give your sweetheart at least 10 minutes of your undivided attention every day. You need that time together to really focus on each other and the struggles (and joys) you're going through. Prioritizing that alone time is crucial to a magical marriage.
2. Give each other a massage
Nothing calms a person down like a good massage from your spouse. When you're feeling a little stressed or when you want to set the mood for a romantic night at home, take turns giving each other massages. Having that physical touch while relaxing will help you both unwind and enjoy your limited time together.
3. Make date night a regular occurrence
Don't give up dating once you're married. Make sure you're going on dates with your spouse at least once or twice a month. When you go, try not to talk about kids, struggles or worries. Just enjoy each others' company and work on strengthening your connection.
4. Say "I love you" as often as you think it
Every time the words "I love you" pop into your mind, you should say them. Those three words mean the world to your sweetheart, and neither of you will ever get tired of hearing them.
5. Kiss your spouse every day
Give your spouse a kiss every single day (and not just on the cheek). Kiss them with love and passion every single time you smooch - never fall into the habit of giving routine kisses.
6. Flirt with each other
The flirting doesn't have to stop when you get married. Send flirty texts, make inside jokes and have fun together. Over the years, it'll help keep you invested in the relationship (plus, it's tons of fun to flirt with your spouse).
7. Find solutions to your problems
If you're having marital problems, find solutions. You don't have to suffer in an unhappy marriage because you have the power to make it better. Maybe all it takes is spending more quality time together, or maybe it'll take going to marriage counseling. Whatever it is, do what you need to do, because your marriage is worth saving.
8. Talk with each other every day
Don't just talk to each other, talk with each other. Listen to what your spouse is saying, and give your advice and opinions at appropriate times. These healthy discussions will do wonders for your marriage.
9. Nurture your marriage all the time
Working to build your marriage is a full-time commitment, and you can't take a break. Work with your sweetheart to nurture your relationship.
When you do these nine things, your marriage will be strengthened and you'll grow closer as a couple. You deserve a magical marriage, but it doesn't come easy - you have to work for it. So get started on your journey to a happier marriage today.
