'I'm so glad I didn't get married in my 20s'

I'm so glad I didn't get married in my 20s.

Obviously, if Mr Right had come along when I was younger, I wouldn't have sent him away. However, being 38 now, I know exactly what I want, need and desire, which is an ocean away from what I wanted, needed and desired 10 years ago.

This is what some of my mates who married their high school sweethearts are discovering the hard way, as they finalise divorces from partners they no longer have anything in common with.

Walking down the aisle with your long-term lover, before having kids, was once a natural progression. Even I'm guilty of asking unwedded couples when they plan to get hitched.

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Doing things in "the right order" is still important to many (especially to older generations). A female's biological clock ticks loudly, so I've seen many people settle, rush and then sometimes regret.

Damien Greer Lawyers estimate 44 per cent of marriages in Australia end in divorce.

Thankfully, there's more socially acceptable alternatives to marriage these days.

There's less stigma associated with being single, plus more people are living together and co-parenting without feeling the pressure to tie the knot. It's also way less frowned upon if you're a woman wanting to prioritise your career.

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According to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, the number of marriages registered each year in Australia has been declining since the 70s.

The shift in these old-school relationship trends has resulted in de-facto couples being able to access the same legal rights as married couples. I'm here for this change!

Sky-rocketing cost of living expenses are also steering people towards smaller and cheaper wedding options.

My girlfriends all say they'd change and slash their reception guestlists if given their time again. Some would even choose to pocket their wedding funds and go on holiday, or pop a downpayment on a new home instead.

If by some miracle Prince Charming were to gallop into my life, sweep me off my feet and pop the question, I genuinely think I'd choose to elope (or hit the registry office). Not only to save my own money, but to spare others the expense of attending my nuptials.

I'm also not a giant fan of PDA, so I'm happy to remain low key when it comes to big love gestures.

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While I'm being an events grinch, let it be known that I'm not having a hens, bridal shower, baby shower, gender reveal or any of that hoo-ha.

Despite it well and truly being my turn to be guest of honour for something, I don't want others to endure the planning palaver and financial obligations I've experienced over the years.

One thing's for sure, my Dad (a father of three girls) will be happy with these savings!

Eliza also has a weekly podcast called 'Try Before You Die'. Listen here (or wherever you get your podcasts)!

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