SavvySugar -- It Makes Sense.

250,000 Couples Will Receive Stimulus Checks

SavvySugar — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 12:30:32 -0700

When rebate checks were distributed to Americans this Summer the IRS only cut checks to citizens whose names and social security numbers matched. The IRS recently announced they would be issuing overdue checks to 250,000 couples that qualified for the stimulus but were overlooked because of mismatched names and social security numbers.

If one person decides to change their name after marriage, the change should be reported to the Social Security Administration so their social security number matches the new legal name. Some couples fail to take this step, and this time the oversight meant they missed out on stimulus checks from the government. Going forward, make sure you're accounted for appropriately by following my checklist for changing your name.

Source

Shelling Out For Wedding Dresses Dates Back to Depression

SavvySugar — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 04:00:54 -0700

Our eyes grow wider as the average price of a wedding keeps rising, and the nearly $30,000 price tag makes some brides stop and wonder how it's possible that everything wedding-related seems so inflated. The New York Times reported something very interesting this weekend that points out how long the tradition of marriage has been paired with the tradition of spending lots of money.

According to the article, called "Party Peer Pressure, and Why You Shouldn’t Succumb to It," wedding sections were introduced to department stores in the 1930s. Marketers adopted a "love knows no Depression" slogan in spreading the trend, and assumed that even when times were tough, brides would still find the money for a wedding dress. Wedding sections are staples in many department stores nowadays — looks like those 1930s marketers knew their stuff.

Source

How to Become More Financially Compatible as a Couple

SavvySugar — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:30:26 -0700

There's nothing romantic about money. It can buy lovey-dovey getaways and tokens of our affection, but money in itself is a topic that brings a business aspect to relationships. This element doesn't have to detract from a relationship based on love, but it often does, and Tara Siegel Bernard of The New York Times argues that "marriage at its core is still a financial union." Because it's an undeniable part of our existence, Tara gathered guidelines for becoming a more financially compatible couple.

Talk and share goals. Before walking down the aisle, ask tough questions like who will care for any children and retirement goals.
Run a home like a business. Share the responsibilities of budgeting and tracking finances, and make important decisions together.
Be supportive of careers. Encouragement and support from the person you're with can help you succeed in your career.

Discover four more pointers when you

Texas Offering Cash Incentive For Pre-Marriage Counseling

SavvySugar — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 04:00:27 -0700

Texas lawmakers can't stop couples from walking down the aisle, but they can make it more expensive to be named husband and wife. There's a high divorce rate in Texas and lawmakers think that number will go down if couples undergo pre-marriage counseling. A new federally funded program called Twogether in Texas is based on the hope that couples would rather sit through counseling sessions than pay extra for their marriage licenses.

Beginning this month, licenses that used to cost $41 will now cost $71. If couples participate in the Twogether in Texas program and take an approved eight-hour class, the state charges only $11 for the license. Do you think paying $60 less is worth eight hours of free counseling?

Source

Some Prenups Expanding to Include Health Insurance Clauses

SavvySugar — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 04:00:38 -0700

Prenuptial agreements are traditionally designed to dictate what will happen with a couple's finances in case of divorce, and now they're expanding to include some clauses for other money-related issues.

Health care is something that's already pushing some couples to the altar; in just the past year, seven percent of adults in the US married for health insurance. Insurance doesn't come cheap and it can be difficult to find good coverage that isn't very expensive — that's why some couples are designing prenups with a clause allowing for continued health insurance should they divorce.

The appearance of these clauses suggests health care is a big worry for those looking to the future. What do you think of the inclusion of health insurance in prenups?

Source

10 Questions to Save on the Guest List: Would You Use Them?

SavvySugar — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 08:00:44 -0700

The average wedding guest list has 153 names on it, and 45 percent of a couple's wedding budget is spent on the reception venue, meaning this is one situation in which more is not always merrier. CNN published this list of 10 questions to ask about the people on your drafted guest list to aid in trimming it down.

The list's author says that a score of 50 percent or below allows you to cross that person off your guest list, those scoring between 50 and 60 percent are moved to a waiting list, and anyone scoring above 60 percent receives an invitation. She recommends throwing some of these questions into conversation during your engagement to get a feel for how well potential guests know you.

Name the city I'm living in now.
Name at least two of my closest friends.
Name my current employer and my past employer.
Do I have any kids?
Do you know the name of my fiancé? Bonus question: Where and when did we meet?
Do you know where my parents are and whether they are still alive?
Name at least two of my hobbies.
How old am I?
Where did I go to college?
Name my last boyfriend before this engagement. Bonus question: if you can name the last two and why we broke up. If you get the bonus question right, that might automatically get you in.

Source

What Happens If My Husband Has Bad Credit, or No Credit at All?

SavvySugar — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 12:30:35 -0700

You know it's important to maintain your own credit identity when you're married, but here's what ehadams is curious about: "What happens to credit when you get married? For example, if he has bad (or no credit) and you have excellent credit, what happens?" The answer to this is less complicated than going through the process of changing your last name! Find out what it is when you

New Bride's Guide to Changing Her Name

SavvySugar — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:31:01 -0700

Updating your email address to reflect your new married name is the easiest step of all, but unfortunately the laundry list of other changes is much more time consuming. Some women end up dragging out the process because it can be a bit tedious — the DMV and Social Security don't exactly elicit excitement, after all.

If you've decided that changing your name is the right move for you, commit to the process by following my New Bride's Guide to Changing Her Name. Simply print out the checklist to learn what steps you may need to take. You'll find that some areas require more attention and paperwork than others, but keep in mind you only need to (hopefully) do this once! Make copies of all of the documents for your records, just in case.

Maxed Out: 20-Something Newlyweds, $100,000 in Debt

SavvySugar — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:31:25 -0700

Maxed Out is finally back with some new episodes, and it seems like the show will never run out of material. This episode is about Erin and Darryl, newly-wedded 20-somethings who have managed to dig themselves into over $100,000 in debt.

They have $16,500 in credit card debt, $25,000 in student loans, and owe their parents a whopping $60,000. At the rate they are going, it will take nine years and $39,000 in interest for them to become debt free. Find out how financial guru Alison Griffiths helps them figure out a plan when you

Health Care Pushing Couples to the Altar

SavvySugar — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:05:11 -0700

Love isn't the only reason people decide to exchange vows, and a Kaiser Family Foundation poll found that in just the past year 7 percent of adults in the US married for health insurance. These weren't fake relationships, rather most were couples that ultimately chose marriage when they may not have otherwise. Even if both individuals are working it's likely that for one reason or another — usually cost — one person's insurance is more appealing than the other.

ABC News gives the example of a couple that marries several months before schedule so that the groom could have his teeth fixed. His employer didn't offer dental insurance and his teeth needed extensive (and expensive) surgery. Another couple lived together for 30 years and finally decided to get married because the self-employed bride was paying many times more for insurance than she would if covered by her new husband's plan.

And isn't it interesting that this story was published on the same day as one criticizing the quality of health care in the US? On average, we're spending twice as much per person as most other industrialized countries, yet 75 million people are without adequate insurance and the quality of care here is hardly up to par.

Source

Holding on to Your Credit Identity Once You're Married

SavvySugar — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 08:04:34 -0700

You may assume your husband's last name when you get married and you might even merge bank accounts. Just as you maintain an individual identity outside of your husband and your new last name, you need to protect yourself by sustaining your own credit profile. This can be accomplished even if you combine checking and savings accounts. Find out how to keep your credit identity and why it's so important when you

Do You Spend Without Checking in With Your Husband?

SavvySugar — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 11:01:50 -0700

If you wanted to buy, say a new pair of Loubs to fulfill your everlasting desire for red-soled shoes, would you have to consult your husband? And if he wanted to go on a Best Buy binge, would he need to check in with you to negotiate a limit?

Discussing spending priorities is a must when you're pooling your money, and some couples make a rule that they cannot spend over a certain amount without first checking with each other. Is there a rule in your household that calls for checking in, or do you have total freedom when making a purchase?

Financial Considerations For Newlyweds

SavvySugar — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:27:31 -0700

Ideally you hashed out the His and Hers money issues before you said I do, and beginning your marriage with openness about finances will set the tone for constant and comfortable communication. A good place to start is the three-bucket approach: One shared and two individual accounts helps to maintain a sense of independence while combining funds for shared expenses eases you into the idea of combining funds, though this approach isn't for everyone.

You can always rethink your married money situation later if you feel another approach better suits you, as there's not a single formula that works for all couples. There are additional money issues to consider aside from spending habits and who is responsible for paying off which debts. Find out what they are when you

Should I Keep My Maiden Name Professionally But Take My Husband's Name Personally?

SavvySugar — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:03:13 -0700

Even if a woman doesn't get cold feet about getting married, she may experience them when it comes to changing her name. Toying with this decision can be tougher for some than tying the knot, and there's a lot to consider besides the fact that you're giving up the name you've always had.

Depending on where you are in your career, changing your last name can be complicated beyond all of the paperwork. Check out some last-name options when you

The Marriage Penalty, Explained

SavvySugar — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:31:41 -0700

We can't expect everything to be roses when two become one, and taxes after marriage can be surprisingly complicated (not that taxes are ever a simple cup of tea). Combining two salaries means you have a bigger pot to brew, but it could also mean that you end up paying more taxes as a married couple than when you both were single. Or it could mean less taxes. See what I mean — complicated. Find out more about the marriage penalty when you

Is Financial Infidelity Just as Damaging as a Physical Affair?

SavvySugar — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 04:10:37 -0700

Tara Padua Wise is a perpetual shopper who coined the term "fashion espionage" and is the subject of The Wall Street Journal's video profile on "Spouses Who Spend and Pretend." According to Tara, fashion espionage is ripping the tags off a new item and letting it hang in the closet for a month or two, and then coyly telling her spouse that he's seen it before when she finally does wear something new.

About half of you admitted that you've committed financial infidelity. Dr. Bonnie, author of Financial Infidelity says that financial infidelity can be just as damaging as any physical affair. Do you think she's right? Check out Tara and Dr. Bonnie in the video below.

Get Flash to see this player.

Money For Your Honey(moon)

SavvySugar — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:34:41 -0700

Saving for your honeymoon is an absolute must. Sure, going into debt for it will get you to your romantic destination, but you don't want to have that debt cloud hanging over your heads while basking in the clear-sky sunshine. Saving for a big vacation for two people takes some discipline, but think about the end result!

Your newlywed vacation is quite the fabulous reward and you may even feel good moving money each month from your checking account to your honeymoon fund. Each deposit is so many dollars closer to your love-fest getaway, and if that doesn't serve as motivation to save, I don't know what does.

Check out all of our wedding season coverage at IDoSugar.

Source

Prenups Are Legally Binding, But Not Everywhere

SavvySugar — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 12:37:19 -0700

Charlotte's first Sex and the City husband, Trey McDougall, comes from Scottish blood, but he'd probably be a proponent of the UK Law Commission's discussion to make prenuptial agreements legally binding.

Americans are no strangers to the legal contracts that outline the division of assets in case of divorce, while couples in the UK haven't been operating under the same options. Remember when Paul McCartney paid Heather Mills a settlement of $48.6 million as the result of an intense divorce proceeding? The exhausting process and enormous payout could have been avoided if English courts recognized prenups.

Opponents of legally binding prenups are concerned about a higher divorce rate, but proponents argue that without these contracts some couples aren't getting married at all, especially if they've had a previous marriage. There's plenty of time to argue; The Law Commission plans on publishing a drafted bill in 2012 and its projected that it would be 2014 before any law passes.

What do you think? Would legally binding prenups be beneficial or should the UK maintain its status quo?

Source

Would You Want a Stay-at-Home-Husband?

SavvySugar — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 07:59:49 -0700

Father's Day on the horizon has prompted a lot of interesting discussion about modern fathers and their struggle to achieve a work-life balance. Working moms and dads have to work together to create a schedule that juggles all the aspects of their lives, and it's a more delicate balance than if one parent is able to stay at home.Two incomes are necessary for many couples to build the kind of lives they imagine, and especially if kids are involved. Instead of women wondering how they can have it all, more and more couples are taking on that predicament together. If you had the income to support a family, how would you feel about having a stay-at-home-husband?Source

Would You Want a Stay-at-Home-Husband?

Yes, I'd love to be able to work full-time while my husband stayed home.

I've thought about it but I'm still torn on this one.

No, I wouldn't like that type of arrangement.

Other. See my comments below.

Ask Savvy: Should Engagement Announcements Include School and Work Details?

SavvySugar — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 12:34:28 -0700

Dear Savvy,

I am looking ahead to engagement announcements in newspapers for my upcoming wedding. Is it necessary to list where both the bride and groom went to college and subsequently what each does for a living? I do not mind, but my soon-to-be fiancé says he doesn't want his place of work in the article. Also, is it still customary to put a picture of just the bride or of both bride and groom? I would love to see what fellow Sugars suggest about things like including education and work in the engagement announcements!

See my answer and then share your own opinion in the comments! Just

Gay Marriage Could Give CA Economy a Much-Needed Boost

SavvySugar — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 04:04:50 -0700

The California Supreme Court's decision to overrule the ban on gay marriage triggered a spectrum of reactions, and a recent study suggests that more than just same sex couples will benefit from the decision. A study by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law concluded that same-sex couples will add $684 million to California's wedding industry and in three years will boost the state budget by $64 million.

Wedding vendors began to see business increase after the May announcement that CA would recognize same-sex marriage as of June 17. Gay couples have started planning their weddings and have been seeking out vendors to help put together their big days, and companies who have built their businesses around providing nontraditional services have found themselves in high demand. Hopefully more businesses will adapt to all of California's happy couples in the midst of wedding planning.

Source

What British Brides Shell Out For Their Big Day

SavvySugar — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:02:07 -0700

The $30,000 average price tag on an American wedding seems high to many of us, but compared to what? Everything is relative according to our location and budget flexibility, so for some fun food-for-thought let's consider what UK brides are spending on their nuptials. Taking into account the dumpy dollar and its low value compared to the British pound, life as a US bride continues to brighten against that alternative. Find out how much the average bride across the Atlantic pays for their wedding when you

Would You Use Any of These Tactics to Save on a Wedding Dress?

SavvySugar — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:21:08 -0700

Wedding gowns come in countless styles and fabrics, and boy do they run the gamut in price points. Most costs associated with weddings are bumped up just because the word wedding is attached, and gowns generally aren't excluded from that expensive reality. There are some alternatives when purchasing a bridal gown to call your own, and you couldn't help but save money by opting for one of them. From gowns on eBay to nonbridal dresses and renting, there are plenty of options for a bride on a budget — which of these tactics would you use? Bella Pictures

Would You Use Any of These Tactics to Save on a Wedding Dress?

I would borrow a dress from a family member or close friend.

Buying a worn-once gown on eBay sounds like a good idea.

I'd rent my dress — it's only good for one wear, anyway!

Buying a dress that isn't necessarily tagged "bridal" would work for me.

I wouldn't use any of these!

I'd consider using all of these tactics.

Other. See my comments below.

What Do You Consider a Reasonable Wedding Cost?

SavvySugar — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:24:29 -0700

As we judge the cost of everything from jeans and shoes to jewelry and cars, we make judgments on what is a reasonable wedding price tag and what is expensive. This appraisal not only depends on how much we can afford to spend on a wedding but how much we are willing to spend. With the average wedding in the US costing almost $30,000, it would seem that all of our opinions on what we consider to be reasonable should together fall closely to that number. Let's find out, shall we? To see all of our wedding season coverage, check out IDoSugar.Bella Pictures

What Is the Most Disposable Wedding Expense?

SavvySugar — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:26:50 -0700

Everyone has their opinion about which aspects of a wedding are budget-worthy and which can be skipped altogether. Of course I have my own opinions, but I'm more interested in learning what you think a wedding can do without most. Common details I've heard brides ditch because they thought their funds would be better spent elsewhere are wedding favors, a formal wedding cake, and cocktail hour hors d'orderves. Bella Pictures

What Is the Most Disposable Wedding Expense?

Who needs wedding favors?

Nobody eats the cake anyway!

Hors d'orderves aren't necessary — dinner is enough!

Something else. See my comments below.

How the CA Gay Marriage Ruling Affects Benefits and Taxes

SavvySugar — Mon, 19 May 2008 06:43:40 -0700

Some of the biggest domestic news last week was the announcement that California's Supreme Court overturned the ban on gay marriage. The ruling means that same sex couples will be able to obtain California marriage licenses and will be treated with the same state rights as heterosexual couples. In terms of benefits and taxes, CA has already been more inclusive of same sex couples than other states, and to find out exactly how the new ruling will affect these areas just

The Best Way to Organize Bachelorette Party Funds

SavvySugar — Thu, 15 May 2008 15:04:32 -0700

If you think splitting a dinner bill with a large group can be difficult, multiply that frustration by a million when trying to collect funds for a bachelorette weekend. Even if everyone involved says they want to give the bride the most memorable weekend possible, it's likely that some of those attending will have different ideas about how much money it takes to make that happen.

In order to avoid arguments over money with other bridesmaids or friends of the bride that will be celebrating the bachelorette, it's important that one or two people are designated as spearheading the event. While the maid of honor is a natural selection, there's not always a MOH to call on and perhaps the bachelorette is one time it's acceptable for the other bridesmaids to handle some of the heavier planning. For my tips on how to organize funds for the weekend, just

Your Two Cents: How Do You Feel About Prenups?

SavvySugar — Tue, 06 May 2008 15:12:27 -0700

Prenuptial agreements among Hollywood's couples awaiting the walk down the aisle generally don't cause much of a stir, but when it comes to engaged couples who aren't among the rich and famous prenups seem to have a thicker haze surrounding them. Those asked to sign tend to think their loved ones are asking them to put a value on themselves, and what's more, they're calling the future of the marriage into question. Some are more sensitive than others though, as there are some among the newly engaged who think a prenup is sensible with such high divorce rates as a reality. Where do you fall? How would you feel if your fiancé mentioned a prenup as part of the deal? To see all of our wedding season coverage, check out IDoSugar.Source

Your Two Cents: How Do You Feel About Prenups?

I'd never sign a prenup. They're insulting and unromantic.

In some cases it makes sense, but it would depend on the situation.

Prenups are sensible and are just another part of the legal union of marriage.

Other. See my comments below.

Should These 80-Year-Old Sisters Be Treated Like They're Married?

SavvySugar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:35:09 -0700

Joyce and Sybil Burden are sisters in their eighties who have shared a home since birth, and just lost their appeal to the British courts to get the same inheritance tax rights as married couples or those in civil partnerships. They jointly own a £875,000 estate and have stated in their wills that the surviving sister should receive the deceased sister's share. Under the current inheritance tax law, the surviving sister would pay about 40 percent (about £50,200) on that share, while spouses and civil partners wouldn't have to pay an estate tax. The judges that ruled against the sisters said living together couldn't be compared with marriage or a civil partnership and said,"Rather than the length or the supportive nature of the relationship, what was determinative was the existence of a public undertaking, carrying with it a body of rights and obligations of a contractual nature." The sisters feel "personally persecuted" by the judgment and are "bitterly disappointed" with the outcome. What's your opinion?Source

Should These 80-Year-Old Sisters Be Treated Like They're Married?

No, they shouldn't have the same tax rights as married couples.

Yes, they should have the same tax rights and shouldn't have to pay inheritance taxes.

Other. See my comments below.

Money Tip: Choose a Tax-Deductible Wedding Venue

SavvySugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:02:05 -0700

The Knot's Annual Real Wedding Survey found that about 45 percent of a couple's wedding budget is spent on the reception venue, and based on the average $27,882 budget that amounts to about $12,722. One way to save on your venue is to hold your reception somewhere that's an approved nonprofit organization — your cost may be tax deductible as it could be considered a donation to the organization. It doesn't take too much thinking outside the box to come up with this type of venue as several museums and historic landmarks fall into consideration. Just be sure to ask the organization for a statement that includes the amount of your contribution, otherwise known as the facility fee.

Source

How Much Time Did You Take Off For Your Honeymoon?

SavvySugar — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 14:04:59 -0700

One of the most exciting pieces of planning your wedding doesn't have to do with the actual wedding itself, but everything to do with the romantic adventure you get to go on after you've said "I do!" After all, talking about your honeymoon is way more fun for you and your fiancé than discussing seating charts. Your honeymoon is generally one time that your employer is likely to be understanding about you taking time off from work. Even if she's had the tendency to interrupt you during previous vacations, she'll probably feel less inclined to while you're sipping mai tais on the beach with your new husband. Just because your employer expects that you'll take a honeymoon after your wedding, you shouldn't expect she'll be OK with the amount of time off you're planning on taking. When you start planning your honeymoon, let her know that you're thinking about it and would like to make sure the amount of time you'd like to request off is acceptable. Your boss will appreciate your thoughtfulness, and you'll feel reassured that the weeks you'll be away from the office won't cause any rifts that would threaten your job. To check out all of our wedding season coverage, check out IDoSugar.Source

How Much Time Did You Take Off For Your Honeymoon?

I took/will be taking almost a month

Three weeks

Two weeks

One week

I didn't take a honeymoon.

Other. I'll tell you about my honeymoon in the comments.

Your Two Cents: Have You Committed Financial Infidelity?

SavvySugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:36:51 -0700

Financial infidelity is committed when you intentionally hide your spending from your husband because you're afraid of what he'll say about it. Have you paid cash for items that you didn't want to appear on your joint credit card bill? Or maybe you've slyly disposed of shopping bags or receipts?If you've agreed to combine finances with your husband, then chances are your tactics won't go forever unnoticed. Sure, it's great to treat yourself once in a while, but it's best to be honest about it to avoid any money arguments pitted around your lie. Source

Your Two Cents: Have You Committed Financial Infidelity?

Yes, I've committed financial infidelity and been caught in the act!

Yes, but I've never been caught.

No, I'm completely open about my spending habits.

Other. See my comments below.

Bride's Guide to Tipping Wedding Vendors

SavvySugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:59:47 -0700

Just because you're shelling out a small fortune for your wedding and feel like the next dollar you part with is going to make you seriously nauseous, it doesn't mean that tipping etiquette can be thrown out the window. While you're focused on the big-picture price, your vendors are each providing a unique service and you, gracious bride, must be prepared to tip when appropriate. Just as your Friday night dinner bill jumps when tax and tip are added to the total, your vendor costs will also increase when you add these two Ts into the mix. Take them into consideration when building your budget so you don't end up having to dip into your honeymoon fund to tip your vendors. Discover what's good tipping etiquette when you

Should Your Guest List Include Your Boss and Co-Workers?

SavvySugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:33:20 -0700

Ah, the guest list — something that should be so simple in theory that can often turn into a nightmare of political distress, and is the cause of so many lamenting brides-to-be wishing they could just elope. While the average guest list has 153 names on it, that number doesn't seem so forgiving when you take in to account all of the family and friends whom without your event would feel incomplete. The question of inviting your boss and your co-workers is one that can be tougher to solve than the kid question because of the possible repercussions, and the last thing you want to face when you get back from your honeymoon is to be met with awkwardness at work. To see my take on whether or not office folks should receive a coveted place on your guest list, just

How Much Do You Know About the Average Wedding?

SavvySugar — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:34:19 -0700

Most brides-to-be are familiar with the wedding websites owned by The Knot Inc., and the company just released the results of their 2007 survey that questioned over 20,000 newly-wed couples nationwide. While the results aren't meant to serve as a guideline for how you should handle your own wedding, it's interesting to see where you fall in terms of spending and planning among other couples around the country. Find out how much you know about the average wedding when you take this quiz!

To see all of our wedding season coverage, check out IDoSugar.

Source

Cooling the Wedding Chitchat at Work

SavvySugar — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 11:20:09 -0700

Unless they're your work friends, approach personal wedding conversations at work with the mentality that not everyone wants to be filled in on the details. Because your wedding is such a big event for you it's only natural that your co-workers will know this fact about your personal life, even if they don't really know you personally. Weddings have that strange way of being common knowledge in the workplace, it's probably the one thing your co-workers (not to be confused with your work friends) will constantly ask about when you're in a small-talk situation. Find out how to handle these situations when you

Working Girl's Guide to Wedding Planning, Part II

SavvySugar — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:29:51 -0700

The number one thing to keep in mind as a working girl in the midst of planning her wedding: delegate. Believe me, I know it's hard to release your death grip from the reigns of planning, but assigning a few responsibilities to willing family members and your fiancé will do the opposite of what you think. Disaster won't ensue — in fact, you'll probably enjoy the lightened load and will be able to focus more on getting ahead at the office. And if you're a little Type A about your flawless wedding, just reassure yourself by noting that the parts you're responsible for planning will be just so. To see my other tips about juggling your work and wedding planning just

Working Girl's Guide to Wedding Planning, Part I

SavvySugar — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 11:23:42 -0700

Everyone always says the time between your engagement and wedding will fly by — between work, wedding planning, and everything in between there's barely time to come up for air. It's important to keep your priorities in order and recognize that while your wedding represents one of the biggest days in your life, you need your job for your everyday livelihood and can't let those responsibilities take a backseat. While wedding planning can be stressful at times, think of it as an extracurricular activity that you should try your best to leave out of the office.

It can be tempting to use your company's resources to help you achieve ultimate wedding planning efficiency. There's a fax machine 20 feet away from you and empty conference rooms just waiting for you to call your florist with an idea that just hit you. It may all seem pretty harmless, taking 15 minutes out of your work day to accomplish some wedding business, but put yourself in your employer's shoes before you start reserving the conference room for you and your cell every day at the same time. To see why I think this is important just

Do You Need Wedding Insurance?

SavvySugar — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 15:32:13 -0700

Sometimes extra insurance is just a scam to get you to pay more money, but sometimes it can be a helpful tool in easing your mind about the possibility of disaster. Like opting for insurance on your rental car for a few extra bucks a day that could save you thousands, wedding insurance is a policy that covers your wedding financially should something go downhill.

It usually costs between $125 and $500 to protect yourselves against losing a whole lot more. Not all wedding insurance policies cover the same things, so be sure to read the fine print of all the policies you're considering. Wedding insurance should cover the things you don't have control over and could make the little bridezilla in you rear her furious head. Find out what those things are when you

Don't Let Your Wedding Budget Get You Down

SavvySugar — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 11:05:42 -0700

The vendors at the New York magazine Weddings Showcase in Manhattan said their businesses are in full bloom as wedding season inches nearer. While many brides are busy toning up for their stroll down the aisle, there's no sign of them toning down their budgets in the midst of the poor credit and housing markets. As one planner pointed out, people will still get married during recessions. What caught my attention was the quote from one bride who told CNBC, "I had a very small budget in mind so the financial situation isn't playing such a big role. It's quite conservative at $20,000."

But "very small" and "conservative" compared to what? It's important for brides to stay focused on their own wedding — without letting their friends' wedding plans and budgets skew how great your wedding will be. So what if their save the dates look like actual wedding invitations? It doesn't mean people will be any less excited to receive your sliver of paper announcing your special day — and it will only take up one magnet on their refrigerators! Your wedding will be a beautiful occasion no matter how many dollars it took to make it happen.

Source

Would You Be Offended If Asked About Your Wedding Costs?

SavvySugar — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 06:32:13 -0700

Much of your busy engagement revolves around finding vendors and securing each of their services with a deposit, representing a percentage of the total cost. Your upcoming wedding is likely a source of small talk when you're sharing an elevator ride with a coworker, and surely you share the status of how your wedding is coming along and the corresponding details with close friends. So how have you responded or how would you respond to questions about specific wedding vendor costs, the price tag on your dress, or about the overall cost of your wedding? To see all of our wedding coverage, check out IDoSugar. Source

Would You Be Offended If Asked About Your Wedding Costs?

If they're looking for helpful hints, I'd share price info, but not if they're just being nosy.

Those questions are just as personal as asking about my salary — I wouldn't say a peep!

I don't think those questions are rude and would answer openly.

I'd share details with my close friends but not acquaintances.

Other. See my comments below.

Maxed Out: Engaged to be Married, But Wedded in Debt

SavvySugar — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:36:10 -0700

Since we just finished up Engagement Week here on the Sugar Network, this episode of Maxed Out especially stood out to me. It featured Valerie and Jason, an engaged couple in their 20s whose existing combined debt and additional wedding debt was making them frantic. They say that their goal is to start their marriage off on the right foot, but they're pushing themselves even further into debt with a $25,000 wedding and no budget to speak of — Jason says they're winging the wedding expenses and hoping that their guests will be generous with cash gifts. To see how financial guru Allison Griffiths helps the couple overcome their money-related stresses and live happily-ever-after just

Talking About Money As an Engaged Couple

SavvySugar — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:17:08 -0700

For many couples, handling a wedding budget is the first big money conversation of the relationship. Sure, a lot of couples live together pre-engagement and have household expenses to pay, but there's a big difference between splitting the cable bill and considering both yours and his priorities in terms of shared money. He wants to arrive in the stretch Hummer with his boys, but you want the wedding day Jimmy Choos and your wedding budget can't handle both — these are just smaller versions of what you'll have to tackle together financially in the near future. To see which money topics you should cover before saying "I Do" just

Should the Bride's Family Be Responsible For the Wedding Bill?

SavvySugar — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 09:33:13 -0700

Some wedding traditions are still in place more for the sake of tradition than the actual meaning — like the bride wearing virtuous white, for example. Another, more conflicting one is the bride's family paying for the wedding while the groom's family pays for the less elaborate rehearsal dinner. The responsibility of the wedding bill has fallen on the bride's family for everyone I know who has recently gotten married or is currently engaged — and believe me, it's a big number of brides.While it's obvious to me that this is still the norm for most first marriages, I'm wondering if you think the tradition is a fair one. To see all of our wedding coverage, check out IDoSugar.com.Source

Should the Bride's Family Be Responsible For the Wedding Bill?

Yes, it's tradition! The bride's family is obligated to pay.

No, it's not fair. The bill should be split between the families.

If one family is obviously more well off than the other, then that family should pay more.

The bride and groom should pay for it themselves!

Other. See my comments below.

Ten Money Saving Tips For Your Wedding

SavvySugar — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 04:06:51 -0700

Because everything you need for your perfect wedding can add up quickly, it's important that you come up with ways to save in some areas so that you stay within budget. It's really amazing how many small details go into making a wedding memorable for everyone attending, from the bridesmaids' luncheon to the aisle decor and dessert, every aspect of the event requires thoughtful attention. Creating a wedding that makes all of your guests comfortable and happy to be there is the goal, not to mention throwing a fabulous party in honor of your new marriage! I've gathered a list of party tricks that will help you save money on the big day, and you'd be surprised how cutting back here and there can save big in the end. Find out useful ways to save when you

Budgeting For the Big Day, Part III

SavvySugar — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 14:03:55 -0700

So you've come up with a figure for the overall price tag on your wedding, but how will you spend it all? First you need to figure out what your priorities are in terms of each category — if you know that you want a band instead of a DJ then you might need to save in other areas like your dress or the number of courses served at dinner. And if it's important that 300 people can attend your wedding and eat during the festivities, you might need to consider doing a buffet-style rather than sit-down dinner. To find out what else there is to know about buckling down on a budget just

Budgeting For the Big Day, Part II

SavvySugar — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 09:29:02 -0700

After arriving at the magic wedding budget number, you need to consider how many people will be attending your wedding. That means getting three guest lists together — yours, his parents', and your parents'. The number of guests will determine which types of venues are feasible for the event, and if one side has a guest list that rivals a royal engagement then now is the time for editing. How many guests you'll invite weighs on some of the most important factors of your wedding, pressing most heavily on how your budget is allocated.

The same budget for a 350 person wedding may look wildly different from the way that budget is broken down for a 120 person wedding. For example, you can't determine how much of your budget will be used to feed your guests until you have an estimate for how many will be eating. Nothing needs to be set in stone at this very early stage of your wedding, but you'll avoid wasting time (like looking at venues that would fit half your guests) by getting a good idea of what to expect.

To see all of our wedding coverage, check out IDoSugar.com.

Source

Budgeting For the Big Day, Part I

SavvySugar — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 04:02:14 -0700

Once you've had ample time hanging out on the Engagement Cloud 9 with your new fiancé, you'll need to start focusing a bit on what type of wedding you want and, most importantly, can afford. Before you even discuss where you want to have the ceremony and reception, you need to figure out what kind of budget you're working with. Whether you have $50,000 to spend or $5,000, a budget is necessary so that you don't spend too much on one area and run out of funds. See the first steps to becoming a budget-building-bride-to-be when you