In choosing a partner, in as much as having one with a character and lifestyle that is acceptable to you, i think physical appearances also have a great role to play. We cannot argue the fact that inner qualities like well-behaved, responsible, kind are very important in choosing a partner but what draws most people to others at first glance is something externally expressed. For example most men out there will tell you that the first thing that attracted them to their wives in most cases is her beauty. It is no strange thing or something to argue about. It is what you see externally that pushes you to get to know what the internal part is made of.
Many people have always said the most important aspect in choosing a partner is character. I have always gone for 50-50; character and a beautiful lady. I mean everyone deserves the best and i should not focus only on one part. The question i always ask is when you both sleep at night and you turn every night to look at the person lying beside you; at that moment you will be appreciating her facial appearance and external looks and guess what will happen if it is not something you like or admire?
In choosing a partner, you need to know that you will love and appreciate their whole being be it inernal and facial appearances. None is more important; I find them both important in picking a partner. So, picking a partner is not as easy as buying a pair of shoes that you plan to manage it if you don't like it's entirety. It is a human and a heart you are dealing with and if you don't appreciate the whole person then i think you should keep looking and pick the right one.
I hope this helps...