I think the reverse. Piece of paper always comes before any real attchment begins. Of course, there is a period of knowing each other before the piece of paper issue emerges. That is perhaps the most intense and passionate time of the relationship. After the piece of paper there comes may a thing, all eventually leading either to security and boredom or conflict and pain.
Dear Wedward, think hard before you decide ahead of time what marriage will be like.
RE: What annoys you most about the forum threads?
I agree entitely. Homer1