The modern dating scene is often filled with advice on chemistry and compatibility. Many emphasize the importance of sexual experience in relationships before marriage. Bethany Beal, a Christian influencer from Texas, chose a different path. At 38 years old, she shared her first kiss at the altar when she married her husband at 30.
Beal’s journey traces back to a teenage decision inspired by a book. “I read about a woman who saved her first kiss for marriage,” Beal told Newsweek. “I wanted to kiss only the man I would marry.” At 13, she committed to abstaining from sex and reserving her first kiss for marriage, which meant nearly two decades of waiting.
Now married for eight years with three children, Beal finds pride in her commitment. “The waiting felt long at times,” she stated, “but sharing my first kiss with my husband at our wedding is a sweet memory.”
A Unique Relationship Path
Beal’s decision stands out in a culture where intimacy is often seen as vital to dating. Yet, her story appears amid a shift, with younger Americans reporting less sexual activity than previous generations.
While Beal’s choice was rooted in religious beliefs and an inspiring book, delayed sexual experiences are becoming more usual for varied reasons. Institute for Family Studies data reveals U.S. adults aged 18 to 64 engaging in weekly sexual activity dropped from 55% in 1990 to 37% by 2024. This decline partly owes to changes in social interactions and cohabitation rates. Young adults living with a partner fell from 42% in 2014 to 32% in 2024.
The “sex recession” is a term researchers use to describe this trend.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows just 32% of high school students had sex by 2023, down from 47% in 2013, a trend consistent across all racial groups. Generation Z men, aged 18 to 24, reported 30.9% had no sexual activity in 2020, higher than 14.1% of millennial men aged 25 to 34.
While not always driven by religion, this shift leads to more discussions on intimacy and its appropriate timeline. Beal, however, did not aim to defy social norms. “I grew up in a conservative family. Many friends made similar commitments,” Beal noted. “What some see as extreme was normal in my world.”
This divergence fascinates many, especially when shared on social media. What seems unconventional to some is a reflection of Beal’s community values.
Beal, who leads a public Christian ministry, shares her story publicly. “I streamed my wedding, letting thousands celebrate with us,” she stated. While she doesn’t advocate others to follow her path, Beal wants women to choose their paths. “There’s pressure to have sex and test relationships before marriage,” she explains. “I’m proof that waiting for marriage can lead to a rewarding relationship.”