Speculation regarding Kate Middleton’s wedding dress is rife. This follows supposition regarding the proposed guest list, which follows deliberation as to the arrangements for the stag night and hen party, and no doubt soon will emerge consideration as to wedding gifts. But does such contemplation, although interesting, trivialise? A wedding is about so much more than the preparation for the day itself. A wedding is one day, but marriage is a life long commitment.

We wish the Royal couple every happiness. We hope this is indeed a match made in heaven. William and Kate met whilst at University, and have had an opportunity to develop their relationship with a degree of privacy. They have shared a home together, and have tested their compatibility. But how many couples invest time in building the foundations for a strong relationship? How many proposed partners-to-be examine their respective attitudes towards risk, financial matters, fidelity, children, discipline, and other areas prior to entering into commitment? Divorce statistics show many invest time in wedding preparations, sadly paying more attention to the cut of the dress and the colour of the flowers, rather than whether, as individuals, they are compatible.

Certain faith communities do offer marriage preparation classes, and for certain couples the process of entering into a Premarital Agreement will provide them with the opportunity of challenging their compatibility and hopefully build stronger foundations for a lifelong commitment. A marriage is to be celebrated, and wedding vows should be taken seriously; a wedding is for life.

The expertise of the Howes Percival Family Law and Private Client Team includes matters relating to wealth management, family businesses, trusts, offshore financial structures, farming businesses, property-related issues and pension arrangements. Highly skilled in their work with individuals and families, the team also advises on a wide range of relationship and family concerns, including child residency and support, other dependents, divorce, and pre and post nuptial arrangements.

To find out more about any family law matter, call Jane Cowley on 0116 247 3596 or email jane.cowley@howespercival.com.