Can a long-distance marriage work?

Any type of long-distance relationship can be challenging. Whether the couple is navigating a geographical divide because of work commitments, education, family obligations, or there’s some other reason, keeping the relationship going can be a juggling act.

But there are ways to make long-distance love work.  If you’re a married couple, or you’re about to be married, and you have to separate from your partner, take a look at this guide. It can help you explore the strategies you might need to keep you both connected – even when you’re apart.

Trust and commitment

Trust is vital in any relationship, but physical separation can sometimes lead to insecurities and doubts, meaning that trusting and being committed to your partner can alleviate these feelings.

Setting clear expectations from the very beginning is hugely beneficial. Discuss and agree on boundaries, social interactions, and how to handle situations that might come up.

Honesty plays a significant role too. Being open about your feelings and experiences helps prevent misunderstandings.

You might want to consider legal arrangements to protect you and your relationship while you’re both apart. Consulting family law solicitors can offer valuable guidance and peace of mind.

As well as building trust, being supportive is helpful. This demonstrates commitment and a willingness to see the relationship succeed despite the distance. Acknowledging and encouraging your partner’s ambitions strengthens the bond you have.

Communication is key

Communication is crucial. Without being in physical contact with your spouse, you’ll need to develop ways to talk.

Having open and frequent conversations can bridge the gap, so try video calls. Scheduling in a FaceTime call or a quick catchup over Skype means you can see each other and share your day almost as if you were together.

Social media and messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal allow for instant communication too. You can share how you’re doing through texts, memes, GIFs, photos,  and voice notes.

Agreeing on specific times to talk helps manage expectations and ensures that you both feel valued and prioritised. It’s essential to balance communication. Try to avoid overwhelming each other while staying engaged and present.

Planning and visits

Booking in visits and planning for the future are essential strategies for making a long-distance marriage work. Physical meetings reinforce your emotional connection and provide an opportunity to create shared memories. While frequent visits might not always be possible due to cost and time constraints, booking ahead can make this more manageable.

Create shared goals too. This gives you both something to work towards. This might include planning holidays, saving for a house, or setting a timeline for when you will live together permanently. These plans can give you a sense of direction and purpose, making the distance feel more temporary and manageable.