Interesting that the institution of marriage is viewed with so much hostility by so many. The contract itself was far less intimidating than the papers we signed when setting up a business together.
As contracts go it’s quite a good one providing mutual security and security for any kids that should come along.
Financially we saved about 15 times what the wedding cost in tax in the year we got married and if ever you don’t do better taxed as a married couple you can elect to be taxed separately.
For us it was a low-key, non-religious ceremony and I enjoyed it. Serene, romantic and fun are the words that spring to mind. I saw it more of a positive statement than a ball and chain commitment.