They think it a matter of family shame if one of their own marries out into a different race – this can have dangerous consequences for the people involved as the culture tries to defend what it believes to be a matter of honor. Despite this being a characteristic of the cultures involved, it’s a situation that needs looked at when these cultures are living in countries where basic freedoms to choose are common for all people who live there, even those born into a culture that doesn’t, for the most part, believe this is right. This can mean taking a break, finding social support, or working directly on the problem together. You can show empathy and love, and avoid criticism. This can strengthen your bond, and also clear the way for deeper feelings for one another. Having patience will be essential in saving your marriage, and it’s important to maintain balance and perspective if any conflict arises. Future wedding anniversaries can be celebrated at the same restaurant, where you can reminisce about your proposal. Restaurant staff is usually very helpful in orchestrating the perfect proposal. Talk to them when you make your reservation to ensure that you get their most romantic, secluded table. You can produce the ring yourself, or get creative and have the ring served to your future spouse. When it comes to marriage advice, it seems everyone has an opinion. It doesn’t seem to matter how much people know about your relationship, how little they know about the circumstances surrounding the issue you are having with your partner, everyone you know – and even strangers who just happen overhear you discussing the problem – will tell you exactly what you should do. Today, you may wait until your 30 or 40s before ever attempting to tie the knot. As for being a virgin, most people are no longer virgins before they wed, but there are still some virgin brides. The courtships seem to last many years before you actually set a date and marry. Young lovers want to know they can live together and see what marriage will be like, they want to make sure they’ve finished college and started jobs. Then there are others for whom a good night at the tables means a gold band to place beside the extra chips on the hotel dresser. It’s not possible to just arrive in Vegas and expect to get married however. Even in this fun-filled city, there are formalities that have to be observed. Be prepared to wait in line (on some days a LONG line) for your marriage license for example – without this not even the drive-thru wedding chapel is going to marry you!