Deciding to marry someone can be a beautiful, blissful experience filled with happy, fun-filled moments. But it also comes with important conversations about finances. It can be daunting for even the most organized “together” couple. Talks arise of who will manage the household bills, wills, life/health insurance, income taxes (Should we file jointly or separately?), retirement savings, the awkward way that family and finances can often intersect — the list goes on and on. What’s a nearlywed couple to do? Well, Mr. TK and I are having some of these very conversations (I’m quite proud of our progress thus far!) and as our wedding date quickly approaches, I’m considering turning to the tools below to keep us on track:
Bride and Groom Money Talk FAQ by Dr. Taffy Wagner Remember this informative post with Dr. Taffy? I enjoy her conversational advice and feel like she offers solid takeaways for modern couples.
Your Money and Your Man: How You and Your Prince Charming Can Spend Well and Live Rich by Michelle Singletary My mother and I were addicted to Singletary Says on TV One back in the day! Although Singletary, a longtime columnist for The Washington Post, can come across a little preachy at times, I do appreciate her frankness. Funny this book is included in a Triple B roundup because Singletary is typically anti-weddings but I still believe it is possible for one to have a wedding within their means and this book helps give brides and their partners the knowledge to figure it out their way.
The Couple’s Guide to Love and Money by Jonathan Rich Admittedly I know very little about this author but his book, which is actually a workbook, has me intrigued. Why? Here’s what one reviewer had to write about the tome, ” Virtually every type of financial conflict is addressed, and the reader is given fun, interesting, and effective ways to specifically address problems, gain insight, and to start a mutual creative path toward prosperity.” Good stuff.
The absolute best financial advice I’ve ever received came from my momma. One of her mantras is, “It isn’t about how much you make but what you do with what you have.” These sage words have already helped Mr. TK and I attempt to make the most of our current situation.
Do you have a trusted book or website that has helped you or is helping you balance finance and romance? Share it in the comments!
Excellent post! I’m sharing this link w/ all. My coupled up friends bc we as a people need 2 be smarter about how we manage our money.
Talking about money management before marraige is prudent. Learning finance strategies early will greatly benefit your family down the road. Proper money management reduces stress which leads to happier families. Great topic, BBB.
Thanks for commenting Gina and SD! Money can be an uncomfortable topic to discuss with a partner initially especially when you’re used to keeping certain information very private. But as I’m learning, growth is rarely comfortable. However when we don’t grow we limit ourselves in so many ways. @Gina – Many thanks in advance for forwarding this link. @SD – “Learning finance strategies early will greatly benefit your family down the road. Proper money management reduces stress which leads to happier families.” <--- Duly noted.
Now, we’re talking…I am planning a budget conscious wedding because I believe it’s totally irresponsible to have debt after one-day affair…no matter how grand it is…I’ve heard of Michelle Singletary’s book…I may buy it…great post:)
I’ve read this post and your previous one with Dr. Taffy Wagner and they both contain a load of sound financial advice for the engaged couple…………
Initially I was annoyed/disappointed that this post wasn’t getting more feedback on social media but these types of pieces rarely do — on any media outlet. But, that doesn’t mean Triple B will stop!
@Jackie – Amen! And I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Well, it’s not the ‘fun’ part of marriage/wedding planning but, it is foundational to a successful family. I have seen too many relationships fail (including some of my own) due to misunderstandings and style differences related to money. BBB has always been great because it’s not just the frilly, pretty parts of life; rather, this place is a real look into life and how to succeed.
Great work, B!
Thanks a bunch, Ronda!