Marriage & Money

I have been thinking this week,  money can be a big issue in a marriage, I know even for me, it was a huge reason for my marriage breakup.

It sounds rather drastic, but if every couple went for financial counselling before they get married, they will at least have some idea of what could potentially happen, when the honeymoon phase has worn off. 

Sometimes the decision making around  the wedding ceremony and  honeymoon is a good indication, how the topic of money and  finances, will be handled.

For example, if the couple want a big wedding with a $10,000 dress and many bridesmaids and have to borrow and get into debt because of the wedding, it is not a great start to married life. 

Maybe I am being  too practical, after all love conquers everything,  doesn't it? 

Too many times I deal with the fallout after years of lies and credit card abuse with couples, the stress can turn into; anger and disappointment even the best relationship can suffer. The dynamics of money and marriage can  potentially create the following situations:

1. The person who hides  purchases from the other spouse.
2.  The partner who hides the credit card bills or the bank statements.
3.  One partner is a saver the other a spender.
4.  Denial on both sides and spending continues.

Communication is key to great money management and finding out how the other person views money.