Before You Say, “I Do” is designed to give couples a biblical perspective on marriage as well as practical principles to use in marriage. To help you and your spouse fully understand and embrace the marriage commitment, we cover topics and areas that greatly affect marriages. At the same time, we demonstrate how a personal relationship with Jesus Christ provides the essential foundation for a successful marriage.

These fun and intense 7-week sessions are offered several times a year. Each session covers a separate topic including: Expectations, Communication, Conflict, Roles, Intimacy, Finances and In-laws. If you have questions, e-mail mstewart@prestonwood.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I take this class?
Most couples planning on getting married spend a great deal of time planning their wedding ceremony, yet neglect to spend time investing in the most important aspect, their relationship. Before You Say, “I Do” is designed to give couples biblical perspectives and practical principles for marriage. Our goal is that this class will help you have an even more lasting, fulfilling relationship. If you are dating and wonder whether your relationship is ready to move to the next level, Before You Say, “I Do” can help determine if your relationship is a lasting one.

Who should take this class?
Before You Say, “I Do” is open to both engaged couples and those who are dating.

Do I have to be a member of Prestonwood?
Before You Say, “I Do” is open to any couple regardless of where or whether they go to church.

When does the class meet?
Before You Say, “I Do” meets for seven weeks several times a year. Each session is at 9:15 a.m. on Sundays in the Sports & Fitness Center at Prestonwood.

What topics are covered?
A list of the session titles and topics they cover can be found here.

What is the in-law luncheon?
The last session of Before You Say, “I Do” is a luncheon that is open to you, your parents and your future in-laws. This session is designed to give the couple and the parents a biblical view and practical advice on the changes that take place in a family after marriage. The cost for couples is covered in the registration. It is $10 for each parent that would like to attend. Click here for more details.

How much does Before You Say, “I Do” cost?
The cost is $50 per couple. This covers registration, materials for each session, the Prepare-Enrich Assessment and two seats at the in-law luncheon.

What is the Prepare-Enrich Assessment?
The Prepare-Enrich Assessment is designed to increase awareness of strengths in your relationship as well as areas for growth. The assessment is taken online. After you have taken the assessment, you will meet with a “coach couple” for a one-on-one interpretation of the assessment.

What are Coach Couples?
Coach Couples meet couple-on-couple with participants to review the Prepare-Enrich Assessment and offer practical, personal and biblical advice to build a better foundation for marriage.

How can I sign up?
Registration is online. Credit cards and eChecks are acceptable forms of payment.

What do I need to bring?
Be sure to bring your Bible and a pen with you. We will be looking at Scripture and will give you a lot of things to write down. We will provide all the material you need in a notebook.

What if I need a certificate?
Many churches, including Prestonwood, require participation in a premarital counseling program before the wedding. Before You Say, “I Do” is an 8-hour program that meets these qualifications. If you need a certificate of completion, you will receive one if you attend all classes and live in separate residences.

What happens after this class?
We believe that the greatest impact to your relationship with your spouse is your relationship with Christ. The Young Married Ministry at Prestonwood seeks to minister to engaged and newly married couples who are in their first years of marriage. There are specific opportunities available through small groups called Bible Fellowship classes that meet on Sunday mornings and Saturday nights at Prestonwood. You can find more information about Bible Fellowship here.