As a wedding photographer team, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing the beautiful journey couples take towards their big day. It’s a journey filled with love, growth, and sometimes, a bit of uncertainty. To help you navigate this exciting time, we curated a list of must-read books for every engaged couple. From practical marriage advice, to spiritual guidance for Christian couples, these books offer a wealth of insights to help you build a strong and lasting union. So grab a cup of tea (or coffee), snuggle up with your partner, and let’s dive into this list.
1. “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
Gary Chapman’s bestseller is a must-read for all couples, regardless of their stage of relationship. Chapman identifies the five primary ways we express love—Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, and Physical Touch—and explains how understanding your partner’s love language can dramatically improve your relationship.
2. “Things I Wish I’d Known Before We Got Married” by Gary Chapman
Another brilliant book by Gary Chapman, this one is a practical guide that highlights common challenges couples face in marriage. From handling conflicts to managing finances, Chapman shares invaluable insights and advice that can help you lay a solid foundation for your marital journey.
3. “The Meaning of Marriage: Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God” by Timothy Keller
This is a beautifully written guide for Christian couples, exploring the biblical view of marriage. Keller discusses the importance of friendship, the role of gender, and the spiritual dimension of marriage, offering Christian couples a profound framework to understand, appreciate, and inhabit their marital vows.
4. “Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love” by Dr. Sue Johnson
Dr. Sue Johnson presents a revolutionary approach to resolving conflicts, fostering a deeper connection, and boosting intimacy. Through seven transformative conversations, couples can learn how to nurture their relationships and build a lasting bond.
5. “The Conscious Bride: Women Unveil Their True Feelings about Getting Hitched” by Sheryl Paul
This book is a gem for brides-to-be. It helps in navigating the emotional landscape of transition from being single to married. Paul offers wisdom and practical advice to address common fears and anxieties, enabling you to embrace your wedding day with joy and confidence.
6. “Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts: Seven Questions to Ask Before — and After — You Marry” by Les and Leslie Parrott
This insightful book is perfect for engaged couples, providing practical tools to build a lifelong marriage. From unmasking the myths of marriage to resolving conflict, the Parrotts guide couples in uncovering and understanding the dynamics of their relationship.
Remember, building a lasting marriage takes work, patience, and understanding. By equipping yourselves with the wisdom from these books, you’re setting yourselves up for a successful, joyful, and fulfilling marriage. Happy reading!
