While I have intimate knowledge of the workings of what goes into the physical appearance and aesthetics of the wedding, I have also heard many stories from almost hundreds of women, consisting of new brides and longtime wives. Here are some of my biggest takeaways and pieces of advice for anyone planning a wedding this year.

As a woman who has been trying to build her career as a journalist, I want my career and published work to follow my name from when I started. I started as Caitlyn Meisner, and I want to finish under that name. My name will follow me everywhere, and I don’t want to confuse future employers with a name change.

Instead of letting yourself become addicted to your phone, use it as a tool to keep in contact with people you don’t get to see often or as a tool to deepen your understanding of topics you’re curious about. Right now, they are simply becoming a tool to dull senses, push away thoughts and numb emotions.

When all we do is see our fellow citizens as their political identities — or hopelessly attempt to categorize them when we are unsure — we are doing a disservice to ourselves and those around us. Human connection breaks down when all we want to do is hate “the other side.” Most of the time, we really don’t even know who the “other side” actually is.

Club sports create bonds that persevere through tough times and create lasting friendships.

“Our kindness reflects the heart of our Father. “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32),” Witmer said.