18 Things to Ask Your Partner Before Getting Married, According to an Expert

"Children are an enormous responsibility. You want to make sure you're on the same page," says Bronstein.

"This question is especially crucial if you don't share a religion," says Bronstein. "There are plenty of interfaith couples that do well; however, if you don't discuss this topic in depth with honesty at the beginning, it can cause extreme friction down the road."

Being transparent about the management of household responsibilities is key. For instance, will you split bills 50/50, and how will household chores be distributed? You want to make sure you're honest with each other about expectations, advises Bronstein.

Some people express and feel love through gifts, while others place little value on them. It may seem materialistic, but open communication about expectations around gifting can help avoid misunderstandings.

Everyone communicates stress or frustration in their own way. Learning how your partner handles conflict can make it easier to work through challenges together.

RELATED: Best Love Quotes

Love languages are about how you express and feel love. For instance, do you prefer words of affirmation (compliments and praise) or acts of service (running errands and helping with chores)? If you feel that yours isn’t being recognized, it’s essential to discuss so that you both get what you need from the relationship.

"This presents an opportunity to be vulnerable in a safe space and share authentically. It's better to discuss fears before you get married than after," advises Bronstein.

For the marriage to work, Bronstein says, both parties must have an aligned mindset when it comes to growth. How important is it that your partner is physically active? What are your long-term financial goals? If you aren't aligned, resentment and judgment could develop.

Ambition or a lack thereof can have a positive or negative impact on the marriage, so being aware of each other's career goals is crucial.

Bronstein says, "In-laws can enrich or complicate marriage — understanding expectations is key."

RELATED: Best Love Song

While no one wants to discuss it, understanding each other’s beliefs about commitment, deal-breakers, and resilience is a game-changer.

"Knowing each other’s core boundaries upfront prevents major surprises later," says Bronstein. Maybe you need an hour to yourself after work, or you prefer not to hang out on weeknights — priorizing boundaries is a form of self-care.

Bronstein admits this question isn't very easy. You and your ex might be the best of platonic friends, but it might be worth checking in with your partner and coming up with boundaries around how you'll both manage that relationship moving forward.

"Asking these questions clarifies whether decisions are joint, individual, or situational," she adds.

Lifestyle expectations (city vs. suburb, house vs. condo, near family or not) can affect happiness and overall well-being.

RELATED: Marry-Me Chicken

"Sexual compatibility and openness to discussing needs are important for long-term satisfaction," she says.

Food is a major part of life. It becomes even bigger when you're in a relationship. So, it's important to know if your partner prefers to have home-cooked meals every night or wants take out once in a while. Bring this discussion to the table to avoid conflict down the road.

RELATED: Unique Gifts for Your Wife

Taking trips together will likely be a major part of your marriage. Chatting about vacation preferences beforehand is crucial to managing expectations. Beach or mountains? Vacation rental or luxe hotel? Asking these questions are important for making happy memories that will last a lifetime.