Carrie says: Not essential, but a powerful way to grow, stretch and open your heart. My first year of marriage was painfully difficult; adjusting to being with another, letting go, and at the same time learning to stand my ground. Now, I love being married, having a life partner…we are expanding together.

Jessica says: I think it’s an individual thing. Some will tell you they don’t need another to be complete, some think they can’t be fulfilled without a partner. All I know for certain is that personally, right now, a life partner sounds pretty awesome.