Couples embarking on first-time marriages often are caught up in the romance of the moment. They may overlook their future partner's imperfections or shrug off the possibility of problems that most couples face. Couples who understand each other's expectations before they get married are likely to have happier and more successful relationships, she said. Money can become a real issue in a marriage, especially when a husband and wife have different spending habits.
Debt is another major issue.
If one or both partners have credit card or other debts, deciding how to handle them before marriage is advisable, she said. Employment also may be an issue. Leisure time doesn't sound as if it should be an issue, but it can turn into one, Olsen said. For example, suppose one spouse wants to spend vacation time and money fishing, while the other spouse wants to spend it at the newest mall. Holidays and other celebrations should be happy times, but they can add stresses to relationships, too.