OVER the last few years my social media has become increasingly inundated with Facebook and Instagram posts by old school and university chums looking dewy eyed as they hold up a newly pedicured hand sporting a dazzling diamond ring along with a caption that reads ‘I said yes!’.

As a committed singleton you’d be forgiven for thinking that weddings wouldn’t be my thing. Wrong! From the first glimpse of the beautiful bride to the heartfelt and often hilarious speeches (usually courtesy of the best man) and the exquisitely set tables and stunning flowers, I love it all. There’s just something exciting and enchanting about the day.

However, according to the latest estimates from the Office for National Statistics, the proportion of people aged 16 or older in the UK who are married or in a civil partnership has fallen below 50% for the first time, meaning fewer of us are opting to tie the knot than in previous generations.

Why do people get married? Because they fall in love is the obvious answer. Beyond that, for security, to raise children, to honour a formal commitment made in the presence of family,........

© The Irish News