10 Useful Tips to Overcome a Tough Divorce + Some of Our Personal Experience
Cost-saving Strategies To Help Newlyweds Live Well
When you’re still in the honeymoon phase, budgeting might be the last thing on your mind. But as you and your spouse settle into your new daily routines, saving and spending carefully will be imperative for a happy life together.
Now is the most important time to set mutual goals and outline a financial plan together. As part of our post-wedding tips, here are a few foolproof financial tips for newlyweds.
1. Set financial goals and roles
Newlyweds should start their journey by talking through their financial goals and budgeting strategies. Think about both of your careers: what are your responsibilities and strengths at work? These will apply to your personal financial strategies too, so try to follow a pattern.
It’s important to create a shared financial plan that you can both agree upon. Decide whether you’d like to merge accounts or keep things separate, ensuring that you’re honest about your incomings and outgoings.
There’s no right or wrong way to set up your finances together. Whether you create a joint emergency fund or stick with a separate savings account, just make sure you stay transparent.
If you’re having a tough time talking about money issues – watch this awesome TED lecture:
Our Experience Over the years, I’ve spoken to countless couples about how they approached their finances post-wedding. One couple, Emma and James, swore by a “yours, mine, and ours” system—keeping personal accounts for individual spending while maintaining a shared account for bills and savings. Meanwhile, another pair, Sarah and Tom, told me they regretted not having a serious money talk before tying the knot because it led to months of tension. The key takeaway? Transparency and planning make all the difference. Read more on smart financial planning for couples.
2. Maximise quality time on a budget
Managing your finances doesn’t always need to be serious business. Budgeting for quality time together ensures you can keep your bond strong and find moments to appreciate each other.
From at-home date nights to budget-friendly hobbies, try to spend some time planning your fate nights. Prioritizing wholesome shared experiences over costly outings will strengthen your relationship and help to keep you on track with your other financial goals.
Discuss your hobbies, interests, and curiosities regularly. Supporting your partner in their interests, even if you don’t share them, will keep the relationship feeling new and special.
Watch this video for some hobby ideas that aren’t that expensive:
Our Experience I’ve met couples who swore that their best date nights cost next to nothing. Mark and Lily, for example, had a tradition of “traveling the world” from their living room—each month, they’d pick a different country, cook a meal from that cuisine, and learn a few phrases in the language. Another couple, Jake and Sophia, saved thousands by swapping extravagant nights out for cozy backyard dinners under fairy lights. Want more ideas? Check out these creative budget-friendly date night ideas.
3. Safeguard your future
You’ll need to think about potential risks to your finances now that you’re married. Even if you still keep your bank accounts separate, you’ve still formed a legal financial partnership.
You might choose to follow a routine and lifestyle that’s based on your joint income. While this might feel fulfilling and enjoyable, remember that if something happens to one of you, it would be hard for the other spouse to pick up the costs and responsibilities.
Life insurance is a great priority if you’re considering cover. Premiums are typically cheaper when you’re young and healthy, so now is the best time to get a quote. Similarly, obtaining joint or learner car insurance will give you more freedom, opportunities and independence as a married couple.
Our Experience I’ve interviewed couples who learned this lesson the hard way. One couple, Rachel and Dan, faced an unexpected medical emergency just months after their wedding—without insurance, they had to dip into their savings, derailing their plans for a home. On the flip side, Mia and Jack took out a small life insurance policy early on, and when Jack was unexpectedly laid off, that safety net helped them stay afloat. If you’re unsure about where to start, this guide on financial safety nets can help.
4. Set personal and shared goals
Finally, don’t forget to brainstorm and share your goals, both individually and as a couple. Whether you’d like to save for a new car, a newly built home or perhaps a dream renovation project, you can achieve amazing results together with perseverance.
For your short-term goals, make sure you’re setting realistic timeframes. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself: try to make sure that working towards your goals keeps you feeling motivated and confident, not stressed or overwhelmed.
Our Experience A couple I interviewed, Alex and Natalie, set a goal to buy a house within five years. They turned it into a game—every month, they’d challenge each other to save a little extra by cutting unnecessary expenses, like canceling unused subscriptions or meal prepping instead of dining out. Meanwhile, another pair, Ben and Olivia, found joy in setting “fun goals” alongside financial ones, like taking a road trip once they hit a specific savings milestone. Looking for guidance? This breakdown of financial goal-setting can help you get started.
Final thoughts…
Marriage is a journey that blends love, commitment, and financial responsibility. The way you handle money together will shape your future, influencing everything from daily experiences to long-term dreams. By setting clear financial goals, embracing budget-friendly quality time, protecting your future, and working toward shared ambitions, you create a solid foundation for a fulfilling life together. Every couple’s financial path is unique, so find what works best for you and enjoy the process of building a life filled with both love and financial security.
