Do not let the word "prenup" scare you. Here, the true definition of a prenuptial agreement, plus seven reasons couples get them. While prenuptial agreements are not nearly as fun to think about as wedding cakes or honeymoons, they can help you avoid financial issues later in life. Some couples might feel as though a prenup has a divorce stigma attached to it, but it can actually be a great opportunity to get on the same page for planning your future together. What Is a Prenup? Simply put, a prenuptial agreement (also known as a premarital agreement or ante nuptial agreement) is a contract that a couple signs before getting married to figure out their finances in case of a divorce. Prenuptial agreements cover how a couple splits their finances, what each party's separate property is (what they come into the marriage with) and how they would split their home, it can delineate how they would divide up marital property, including marital debt— what they have, but also what they owe—and it can also state how long a spouse or children can stay in a marital home during a divorce. Your Prenup Needs to Be Fair Just because you create a prenup does not mean you can set any standards that you wish. For example, you cannot award yourself all of your marital assets in the event of a divorce. For a judge to accept your prenup, it must be clear, legally sound and fair. You will Need Different Lawyers If you are looking to save money, you and your future spouse can use a template to create a prenup, It is still a good idea for each of you to at least have separate attorneys review the document before you sign. If your estate is more complex, you may wish for an attorney to draft the prenup. Either way, having an attorney review the prenup will help protect your interests and will go a long way toward convincing a judge that the prenup is valid. Prenups Can Save You Money Nothing is guaranteed, not even your marriage. If, one day, your marriage ends, a prenuptial agreement can save you a substantial amount of money, frustration and stress. We have all heard the horror stories of couples who wage their divorce battle in court, paying endless attorney fees and legal costs and dragging out the process for years. With a signed and valid prenup in your pocket, you can quickly and easily divide your assets and move on with your life. Prenups Can Give You Peace of Mind While some couples in love may feel uncomfortable even discussing a prenup with its connection to divorce, others may appreciate the peace of mind a prenup offers. If you happen to be much wealthier than your future spouse, a prenup can ease worries that your wealth is a factor in your partner's decision to marry you. Prenups Do not Ca not Include Child Support or Custody Details You cannot include details about child support in your prenup. That includes limiting child support or providing for child support. In the event of a divorce, you will need to address child support and custody as part of your settlement. Popular Reasons Couples Get Prenups
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We can probably all agree that watching a little flower girl and ring bearer stroll down the aisle at a wedding is the cutest part of the day. But how does a couple decide which children get that honor? And what about the kids who do not get picked? Read on to figure out exactly how to choose your flower girl and ring bearer.
1. Figure out if you actually want kids at your wedding. Before deciding who your flower girl and ring bearer will be, you will want to decide if you are planning on having children at your wedding at all. Inviting children to your wedding has its advantages (all the cuteness!) but also some potential issues (screaming during your ceremony!). Weigh the pros and cons of having adults-only wedding, and figure out which approach is best for your big day. 2. The parents play an important role, too. While your littlest attendants will certainly get their moment in the spotlight, their parents will have a lot of behind-the-scenes work to do. They will need to purchase wedding attire for their little ones (unless you volunteer to foot the bill, which is not necessary but certainly generous), prepare their child for the big day, ensure good behavior during the (potentially long and boring) family portrait session, handle any meltdowns, and more. Before selecting a child to be your flower girl or ring bearer, think about if their parents will be able to handle this responsibility. If the child’s parents are already in the wedding party, this may be a bit easier, but consider other issues, such as if the parents also have infant children that might need attending during the wedding. 3. Ask your flower girls and ring bearers the right way. You will obviously need to get permission from their parents first, but it is a sweet gesture to send a card and maybe a treat to your child attendants asking them to participate in your wedding. When you speak to their parents, do not forget to discuss outfit requirements, and who is expected to pick up the tab on formalwear. 4. Give other kids special jobs. If there are kids in your life who are special to you but will not be able to participate in the actual wedding ceremony, consider giving them each a flower crown, corsage, or boutonniere to wear throughout the day. That way they know they are important and still get to show off to their friends. If you are assigning slightly older children the roles of usher and junior attendant, you can dress them slightly differently from the flower girl and ring bearer. 5. Make sure your flower girl and ring bearer are the right age. Flower girls and ring bearers are usually between the ages of three and seven. Younger children are more likely to become shy and nervous at the wedding, though, so keep that in mind as you are making your decision. Parents of particularly young children should be seated near the front of the venue on the aisle, so that kids can see mom or dad while processing down the aisle. Kids can always sit with their parents after they have completed their duties, rather than standing with the rest of the wedding party where they might become restless. 5. When it comes to gender roles, free to “break the rules”. The roles of flower girl and ring bearer have traditionally been gender segregated, but you can absolutely break the rules. Boys can toss flower petals, girls can carry the rings, or they can do something completely different—like carry pinwheels, signs, or ribbon wands down the aisle. There are a lot of wedding superstitions out there, both good and bad, but trying to keep up with them will only add to your wedding stress. Our advice… Forget about them. This list has all the silly superstitions that are perfectly okay to ignore—or to put your own twist on with a little creativity. 1. Do not get married on a Saturday, in May or on the 13th of the month. The Superstition: This actually refers to several superstitions. According to English folklore, Saturday is the unluckiest day of the week to marry, while Wednesday is supposed to be the best. But it looks like this myth has not affected anyone's preference for saying "I do" on a Saturday; it is by far the most popular day of the week to do it. The fear of marrying in May actually dates back to the Romans, who held their festival for the dead in May. There is even a nursery rhyme that reads, "Marry in the month of May, and you will surely rue the day." And finally, there is the infamous unlucky number 13. Our Take: Attempt to book your dream venue while following those calendar-related myths and you will immediately understand why you should ignore them. Unless your family tradition dictates you find a lucky or auspicious wedding date, choose any beautiful wedding day that works for you, and do not look back. 2. You cannot see each other before the wedding. The Superstition: Back in the day, couples were not supposed to see each other until the last minute, so the groom did not have the chance to change his mind. Crazy, right? This custom gradually morphed into the general idea that it was bad luck for a groom to see his bride on their wedding day. Our Take: Today, some couples stick to tradition because they like the excitement and anticipation of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony. But we say, do what makes you happy. We know lots of couples who have bucked tradition and stayed in the same room the night before, had breakfast together the morning of and scheduled their joint photo session with their photographer before the ceremony. Nothing beats an emotional first look photo, and it will help calm your nerves and up the excitement to have a moment together before your "I dos." 3. You're doomed if you drop the ring. The Superstition: Get ready for this dramatic idea: As tradition goes, if someone dropped the ring during the ceremony, it meant that person would die. Our Take: Obviously that is some grade A nonsense. But it does lead to another a good point—if you have a ring bearer handling your rings, make sure your wedding bands are tied tightly enough, and that you hand the ring pillow off to him at the last minute, just before he walks down the aisle. No, you are not doomed if the rings fall, but it could be a little awkward and stressful. 4. Steer clear of yellow roses (or you will be green with envy). The Superstition: During the Victorian era, The Language of Flowers—a book that assigned flowers different emotions and meanings—was popularized all over Europe. According to the volume, tulips stand for love and passion, and stephanotis means marital happiness. On the flip side, yellow roses were said to symbolize jealousy. Our Take: If you love a flower, give it your own special meaning, especially if it has some significance to you, and do not worry a bit about what those Victorian florists would have said. We have seen some seriously gorgeous yellow floral arrangements (without a hint of jealousy in sight). 5. The bride has to be carried over the threshold. The Superstition: Ancient Romans believed carrying the bride over the threshold of the couple's home protected her from evil spirits. Our Take: Do it for fun when you get home from the honeymoon, if you want, as a nod to a harmless tradition. Or give it a contemporary twist: Walk hand in hand into your new home together instead. But we are pretty sure evil spirits have got nothing on you, so do not take this one too seriously. Looking for the best inexpensive wedding reception venues Austin Tx
Just found the best wedding banquet halls Austin TX Had a wonderful evening near 5353 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756 Had a best small intimate wedding venues Austin TX Your proposal should be a truly personal moment, but that does not mean you ca not steal an idea (or two) from real couples. These romantic ways to propose are tried-and-true favorites.
During a Picnic There is something classically romantic about going on a picnic with your love. The best part about this proposal idea is that you can make it as elaborate or as simple as you want! Written on Cupcakes One of the most creative and yummiest romantic ways to propose: cupcakes! This idea requires a bit of coordination if you want to arrange something in advance with a bakery, but you could also put your own spin on it at home by making the cupcakes yourself. Surrounded by Loved Ones There is nothing more exciting than announcing your engagement to your friends and family — except maybe having them there to witness the moment for themselves! During a Helicopter Ride This idea is not for the faint of heart (or those with a fear of heights), but we cannot deny that asking your S.O. to marry you while soaring thousands of feet in the air is one of the most romantic ways to propose. Using Photos of You Together This is the perfect idea for the sentimental couple. Create a sweet backdrop for your proposal by displaying all of the pictures you’ve taken together throughout your relationship. Aside from pictures, you could also use other special mementos, like love notes or ticket stubs. On a Scenic Hike Outdoorsy couples, this idea is for you! Pop the question during a hike to get the best of both worlds privacy and a gorgeous setting. With Candles and Rose Petals Create an enchanting proposal space by using rose petals and candles to make an aisle leading to the exact spot where you’ll get down on one knee. We love the halo of strand lights surrounding this couple At the Grand Canyon Whether you choose an iconic location like Horseshoe Bend or a spot away from the beaten path, you cannot top a proposal at the Grand Canyon. Make it even more memorable by planning the big moment for sunrise or sunset or go all out with a private helicopter ride. Beneath the Redwoods For a total fairytale moment, ask bae to marry you with the magical redwood forest as your backdrop. Even if you are not in the redwoods, any forest will do — it is a seriously romantic way to propose, especially when you add a blanket with rose petals and votive candles. On a Mountain in Switzerland A trip through the Swiss Alps is an adventure of a lifetime, and it is also a perfect opportunity if you are looking for romantic ways to propose. In the winter, the mountains transform into a snowy wonderland, while the summer months bring wildflowers, waterfalls, and lush valleys. Top off your proposal by spending the night in one of the charming storybook villages in the Alps. At a Waterfront Location This idea is perfect if you and your future spouse love spending time outdoors. Maybe you have a favorite hangout spot by the local river or a beach you visit together every summer. Choosing a place that holds special meaning for the two of you ensures that your proposal is personal and extra-sentimental. If all else fails, there is always Lake Tahoe, which was the breathtaking location for this proposal that is giving us all the feels. Exploring the City of Love Getting engaged during a trip to Paris is one of the most romantic ways to propose. From the Pont des Arts to the Eiffel Tower, there are so many iconic backdrops in the City of Love that you practically cannot go wrong. Not able to make it all the way to Paris? Luckily, there are a handful of North American cities with European characteristics, such as Montreal, Washington, D.C. and New Orleans. Whether you got your dog when you first moved in together or your pup was there when your partner popped the question, it's not surprising that many couples look to include their pets in the wedding festivities. While having your dog serve as the ring bearer or flower girl may seem stressful to you, there's nothing more adorable than having your pooch pop up in your engagement photos.
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Found the great low cost reception venues Austin TX Had a great time near 400 S Congress Ave Trying to get a best unusual wedding reception venues Austin TX Staying organized while wedding planning is no small achievement. It can be a physically and mentally taxing job, which may explain why so many couples hire a professional wedding planner. However, by utilizing a few clever organization strategies, you can complete your planning without losing your sanity. Collect guest addresses quickly and easily. Instead of spending hours calling and texting wedding guests to get their mailing addresses, you can save time by utilizing a website that creates a customized link that you can email to your guests. Go digital. Although wedding vendors still choose to use paper contracts, wedding planning binders have become outdated. A more efficient way to keep track of invoices, contracts, and other important documents is by storing them on iCloud or Google Drive. By doing so, you will have access to the files from your smartphone anytime. If you do not have access to a scanner, you can upload papers using a mobile app. Do not go overboard with Pinterest. This can be a treasure trove of ideas for cake design, table centerpieces, invitations and other things for your wedding. Using Pinterest, you can collect your favorite photos by creating boards for each wedding planning category. Things such as flower arrangements, specialty cocktails, and hair and makeup. Create an email account specifically for wedding-related messages. Create an email account that is used strictly for wedding planning items such as email communication with vendors. Having one inbox exclusively dedicated to this project will save you both time and unwelcome stress. You can take this strategy one step further by creating specific folders in the email account related to your design elements and wedding vendors, so you can file and access all correspondence quickly. Create your seating chart online. Trying to decide where everyone is going to sit can be challenging, especially when planning a larger wedding. One way to make the process easier is by creating an online seating plan. There are websites that offer a seating-arrangement tool that allows you to upload a customized floor plan or select from a wide variety of table arrangements. Set up automated vendor payments. Many photographers, bands, florists, caterers, and other wedding vendors utilize a fee schedule. Using this, couples will pay a deposit upfront and then pay the balance due closer to the wedding. But when you are finalizing the wedding menu and organizing dress alterations, among many other wedding planning tasks, it can be easy to forget when payments are due. Instead of setting reminders on your calendar and risking the possibility of late payments, you can give vendors permission to keep your bank account or credit card information on file to process payments when they are due. Most vendors offer this option because it ensures they will be paid on time. Keep in mind that some vendors will charge an additional fee for processing credit card payments. So determine in advance if there are any surcharges and change your payment method if needed. Make an inventory checklist for your wedding day. After putting in months of wedding planning, the big day is finally here. It is a happy occasion, but there are still a lot of moving pieces of the puzzle that need to be addressed to make everything run smoothly. The best of the best affordable wedding reception halls Austin TX
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Find the best wedding venues for reception Austin TX Nice places to have fun near 1415 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 Looking for the best wedding ceremony halls Austin tx It is no secret tuxedo rentals have a bad rap for being ill fitting and outdated. Factor in the multiple trips to a rental shop to buy and later tailor your look and the whole process can seem even more daunting. So what is the good news? Brands like The Black Tux, Generation Tux, Men’s Wearhouse and Stitch & Tieare reinventing the rental game. With little more than a measuring tape, internet connection and spare half hour, you can pick out a tux or suit and have it all shipped directly to your doorstep. The Black Tux The Selection: With the largest collection of the bunch, The Black Tux boasts 39 suit and tuxedo rentals guaranteed to fit any and every wedding style with options in tried-and-true neutral shades, plus more fashion-forward colors and prints. The Fit: Most styles come in a range of sizes, for a made-to-order look. If you do not know your size, use their Fit Formula to help find what is best for you based on answers to a few questions like your height and weight. You can also visit any one of their 21 showrooms across the country to be measured in person. Your outfit will ship two weeks prior to your wedding, so plan ahead and secure your rentals at least three months in advance. That will give you enough time to make alterations (should they be necessary). The Process: The six-step rental process takes about 25 minutes to complete, including adding your measurements. You will first choose your tux or suit, and a name for it (like groom). If you are looking to differentiate your best man’s look from the rest of your groomsmen, this will help keep you organized. Next, build your outfit with a shirt, tie, shoes and accessories. Then add all your event details and enter your measurements. Standout Service: If you are looking to make a serious fashion statement at your wedding (after all, it is your day too!), The Black Tux offers plenty of unexpected suiting options like mixed tartan prints, gingham, oversize pinstripes and rose-colored jackets Generation Tux The Selection: While Generation Tux has a smaller lineup of formalwear styles with a selection of 21 suits and tuxedos in classic shades like blue, gray and black, its extensive collection of accessories more than makes up for the difference. You can choose from an assortment of neckwear, socks, cuff links, pocket squares, suspenders, belts, tie bars and even satin flower lapel pins in a range of colors and prints. The Fit: Without a brick-and-mortar store, Generation Tux relies on its etailor to determine your perfect fit with a few questions about your body profile, including height, weight and jean size. Order your rental three months prior to your wedding date and you will have plenty of time to flag any fit issues. Generation Tux will cover minor alterations. The Process: First order of business is creating an event on the website. Once that is done, enter your measurements using the instructional videos. During this step, you can also set up a free at-home try-on if you want to touch and feel the suit you are planning to order in person. Then you will pick out your tux or suit, add accessories and check out. The whole process takes under 30 minutes. Once you secure your own rental, you can then invite your groomsmen to get started on their orders. Generation Tux’s management system allows you, your partner or even your wedding planner to view the status of each groomsman. Another plus: When six or more of your groomsmen rent tuxedos through Generation Tux, your outfit is free. Your rental will arrive two weeks prior to your wedding. Once you receive your rental, you have 48 hours to flag any issues. Standout Service: In addition to killer accessories, Generation Tux also offers a pretty decent selection of suits and tuxes in boy sizes—so even the most pint-sized members of your wedding party will look polished in photos. Men’s Wearhouse The Selection: Men’s Wearhouse is the go-to for off-the-rack designer suits for every style, but it also slays at rentals. There are 38 options to choose from, including looks for junior groomsmen and ring bearers. The selection is more traditional, with two- and three-piece suit and tux rentals in black, gray, blue and tan, plus a variety of accessories. The Fit: Overall, the fit was not as slim as I like, but that is more of a personal preference. My trousers were maybe half a centimeter too short, but it was not enough to warrant a replacement. Though they fit well in the seat, the trousers did keep bunching up at the pockets, which breaks the line and makes everything look a little frumpy. The shirt was definitely not a slim fit and was quite blousey with the jacket off. With the jacket on it was hard to notice. The Process: Your rental will arrive seven days before your event, but you should place your order at least 15 days in advance. Start by selecting a pre-styled outfit, or build your own look by choosing a suit or tux and adding accessories. Then specify the type of event you are renting for and the date before entering your measurements and checking out. Standout Service: Men’s Wearhouse hits the mark with their size-inclusive range of rentals, with jackets going all the way up to 70 long and pants that go up to a 70-inch waist. Menguin The Selection: While Menguin is on the lower end of the pack with 20 tuxedos and suits in its collection, it offers a variety of different traditional styles and colors, like black, blue, gray, white and tan. The Fit: Similar to Generation Tux, the entire fit process is done online. Their fit guide walks you through how to find your sizes using clothes you already own. You will have to answer a few questions to create your body profile, including your age, height, weight, and shoe and jean size. If you are ordering for junior groomsmen or ring bearers (Menguin’s sizing starts at 3T for most styles), you will have to enter their exact measurements. The Process: It is a five-step process that begins by selecting your tux or suit and then building it with a shirt, shoes and various other accessories. You will then create an account, then an event, and then go through the measurement process. Like the other companies listed, you can either measure yourself or have a local tailor do it. It is best to rent your outfit at least 16 days in advance, but if you have a shorter lead time you can contact their customer service number for help. Standout Service: Looking to match your groomsmen to that exact Pantone color of the year or another specific shade? Menguin offers up to five complimentary fabric swatches so you can see exactly what you will be ordering, before you spend a dime. Stitch & Tie The Selction: Stitch & Tie has a collection of 27 suits and tuxedos in traditional shades, as well as a couple of bolder options like red and teal. Unlike other sites, they also have a classic black tuxedo rental specifically tailored for women too. The Fit: Stitch & Tie offers a range of sizes in slim and modern cuts. To ensure an accurate fit, you will have to enter your specific measurements. If you are not sure how to take your measurements, watch the instructional videos that make measuring yourself virtually fool proof. If your rental arrives and the fit is off, they will send you a replacement if you contact them within 48 hours. The Process: To avoid rush-shipping charges, start shopping for your rental at least 21 days before your event. After creating your account, build your custom look or choose from a selection of curated outfits, enter your event date and then your sizes before checking out. Their group management tool can save different looks for each groomsman and even send out friendly reminders to place their orders. Your rental will arrive a week before your event date, and you’ll have 48 hours afterward to return it. If you need to keep it longer (or forget to pop it in the mail), there is an extra fee. Standout Service: No formalwear is complete without the right accents, and while Stitch & Tie offers the usual accessories to complete your outfit, its bespoke service is pretty innovative. It works like this: Mail in your fabric of choice, and it will send you a custom bow tie, tie or pocket square within four weeks. Let your groomsmen choose their favorite print, or send in a swatch complementary to your bridal party’s dresses to match. Find the great wedding reception halls Austin TX
We had a blast at 1400 E Old Settlers Blvd. Round Rock, TX 78664 Here is the best low cost wedding reception venues Austin TX How much it cost to have the best affordable wedding halls Austin TX Planning a wedding is no easy task—but that does not mean it ca not be fun, as you do your to-do list at home, you can turn it into a date night with your significant other by streaming a TV show or movie in the background to make planning more enjoyable. With so many streaming options available, it can feel impossible to pick just the best shows and movies. Whether you are looking for a light-hearted comedy to serve as background noise or a riveting drama to distract you from wedding stress, we have rounded up the best shows and movies to stream while planning your nuptials. Get cozy, pop the popcorn, and prepare to get hooked on any (or all) of these popular shows and flicks Best TV Shows to StreamPerhaps you need some excitement on your television as you plan your wedding. From reality hits to popular dramas, these are the best shows to stream while planning your wedding. The Bachelor Bachelor nation, listen up. If you cannot get enough of the beloved ABC dating show, you will be thrilled to know you can watch multiple seasons online. For an ultimate throwback, watch Jason Mesnick's season on Netflix. For more recent episodes, you can watch the franchise's miniseries The Bachelor Presents: Listen To Your Heart on Hulu. With only six episodes, the show is a quick watch and a great way to get your Bachelor fix while waiting for Clare Crawley's season. Where to stream: Netflix Say Yes to the Dress If you are in total wedding mode, it only makes sense to watch Say Yes to the Dress as you plan your own nuptials. The TLC fan-favorite is the perfect show to put on as you and your partner get to work on your checklist. Whether you are in search of inspiration for your own wedding or you need a mental break from planning stress, you will get swept up in the hustle of New York City's famed Kleinfeld Bridal salon.Where to stream: Hulu, TLC.com Never Have I Ever Created by Mindy Kaling, Never Have I Ever follows the life of a first-generation Indian teenager who wants to up her social status—though her family does not make it easy for her. Inspired by Kaling's childhood, this show is an easy watch, especially if you cannot get enough of the Emmy-award nominee. The first season is only ten episodes, so you and your S.O. can easily finish the whole thing while planning. Where to stream: Netflix Schitt's Creek Perhaps you need a light-hearted show to play in the background while you are answering vendor emails or building your wedding website. If that is the case, get lost in Schitt's Creek. The witty comedy follows the overly-extravagant Rose family—but after they lose their money, they are forced to move to a small town called Schitt's Creek they once purchased as a joke. This sitcom, which features father-son duo Eugene and Daniel Levy, will make you laugh until you cry. So, if you need a planning pick-me-up, consider it this Where to stream: Netflix, Hulu Best Movies to StreamIf you would rather watch a movie, there are plenty of light-hearted flicks that are perfect for date night. Here, we have compiled the best movies to stream while planning your wedding. When Harry Met Sally This classic rom-com will certainly hit you in your feels while you plan your wedding day. Relive the story of Harry Burns and Sally Albright, who meet each other just before embarking on a cross-country drive. They continue to cross paths over the next 12 years, and their relationship tests the question, "Can men and women ever just be friends?" Not only is this one of the best romantic movies to stream, it delivers some iconic lines that you can consider stealing for your vows.Where to stream: Amazon Prime, Hulu What Men Want If you find yourself constantly wondering what your S.O. is thinking, you will appreciate the sentiment behind What Men Want. Taraji P. Henson and Tracy Morgan star in this 2019 comedy, in which Henson's character drinks a potent concoction that allows her to hear the inner thoughts of men around her. The lighthearted film is a great option for when you just want something happy on your TV as you plan your big day.Where to stream: Amazon Prime, Hulu The Princess BrideThis fantasy romance will take your right back to your childhood. In order to make his sick grandson feel better, a grandfather tells him the magical story of a farmhand named Westley who embarks on a journey to save his true love, Princess Buttercup, from an evil prince. If you are planning your own fairytale wedding, watching The Princess Bride during your planning process is a no-brainer. Where to stream: Disney+ Select one of the best small wedding venues Austin TX
Want to have the best wedding and reception venues Austin TX Had a great time near 410 Pressler St Austin, TX, 78703 Looking for the best wedding venue and reception Austin TX It is always a good idea to do a little research before making any big financial decisions together. Read this guide to find out what you need to know about merging finances with your soon-to-be spouse.
As your wedding date approaches, it is only logical to start thinking about all the things you have to do to prepare for the day. But it is a good idea to squeeze in some time to work on the details of your life after he wedding, and organizing your finances with your partner should be on that list. (We know it does not sound fun, but hear us out!) One of the most popular options newlyweds choose is to open a joint bank account together; you are already sharing everything else, so merging your finances together almost seems like a no-brainer. A joint account might be right for you and your spouse-to-be if... ...you have already talked finances. Money is a touchy topic for a lot of people, so discussing the nitty-gritty details of your financial status with your soon-to-be spouse might not exactly be painless. That said, despite how difficult it may be, it is a good idea to make the money talk a priority before the wedding, too many couples have no clue about the finances of the person they are going to marry, which can lead to unpleasant surprises down the line once your money is merged. If you are considering opening an account together, strike up a conversation. Start by reviewing salaries, bonuses and the like. Then move on to sharing your credit ratings, assets, student loans and other parts of your financial portfolios. If you have already done a check of each other's financial baggage (and you are both comfortable with what you have found), that is awesome! But double-check that you haven not glossed over anything—it can sometimes take multiple conversations for all the little details to be covered. ...you think in terms of ours, instead of yours and mine. You already feel like you are partners and on the same team. But before you open a joint bank account together, make sure you are both taking a collaborative approach to your finances as well. It often does not work when newlyweds add money to their personal bank accounts first, and then put the remaining cash in the joint account, It becomes too much of a turf battle about who should be contributing more. ...you have established financial goals together. If you and your soon-to-be spouse are working toward postwedding financial goals, like a down payment on a house or retirement, opening an account together might actually help you reach them. For starters, it is easy to keep track of how much you are saving when your money is in one centralized account. And because you both have shared participation in the account, Edelman says, you both have equal responsibility for making it successful. Most importantly, though, having a joint account will make it easier for you to talk about money with your partner. When you are both able to see how much you are each contributing every week, you are more likely to talk about your finances in a healthy, constructive way. ...you have relatively unequal assets. Property, inheritances, stocks, bonds—you bring all of these assets with you into your marriage. But if one of you has significantly more assets than the other, it might make more sense for you to maintain those funds separately, Edelman says. Doing so protects your assets should anything unforeseen happen, like if one of you is sued or served with a lawsuit. And be especially cautious if you share ownership over the assets with other family members or business partners. First and foremost, let them know that you plan to merge finances with your spouse, so they can plan accordingly. Financial mediators and other experts will help facilitate the changes so everyone is satisfied with the outcome. |
AuthorThe Texas Hall Archives
March 2022
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