To plan the perfect celebration, use this comprehensive wedding checklist, with a timeline based on the 16-month length of the average U.S. engagement. For more planning tips, sign up for Real Simple's weekly wedding newsletter. http://www.realsimple.com/weddings/weddings-planning/wedding-planning-checklist

Even if you have already been living together for some time, you are still two separate individuals with different backgrounds, personalities, experiences, hopes and fears.

You’ll never make such big promises to each other as the day you make your wedding vows. Your church knows that you will want to think these through and provides the time and space to do so. Ask your Vicar about marriage discussion and what they offer to help you consider the vows together.