How long is an ideal courtship period, before marriage ?

There is no real courtship period. Some couples wait years before tying the knot, some a few months. That is up to you and your mate. Just make sure that you two are on the same page as far as your relationship and expectations go. Don't rush into a marriage thinking that will fix your relationship and make you closer. The problems that you have before you say I do can follow you into marriage and when you feel like you would rather not live without that person, that's when you know you're ready to tie the knot! Good luck!