Personal perspective from stable 15 years long relationship, 2 children, not married. Because it's a farce. There is nothing permanent or guaranteed from marri

Personal perspective from stable 15 years long relationship, 2 children, not married. Because it's a farce. There is nothing permanent or guaranteed from marriage, so all that's left is commercialization of my affection, which is not for me, and a big bill which can be used for other life goals which I find more appealing. I won't go into more details for the "ceremonial part", because there is an alternative: sign a piece of paper harshly and be done. This is cheap and effective, sharing finances simplify managing them and in case of medical emergencies you are "allowed in" as husband/wife. Here, Canada, after living together for 1 year it's equivalent to being married, so we have literally lost any incentive to do so: we can skip all legal costs. Actually we joke about it, saying "I'll merry you" in moments of affection, but that's about it.