Yes yes yes. AND, other people take you more seriously as a couple when you’re married. They stop thinking of your boyfriend (or partner, etc) as temporary and changeable.

I’m scared too. I loved being married when my wasband was kind to me; when he got abusive, not so much. But I loved all the things you listed. I liked the idea of a PARTNER.
My boyfriend and I know we are in it for the long haul but his marriage (and ensuing divorce) to a VERY abusive and manipulative woman has him feeling more gun shy…which I completely understand.