Getting married is one of life’s biggest milestones — and Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce just reminded the world how magical it can be.
After two years of dating, the pop icon and NFL star announced their engagement with a romantic Instagram post captioned:
“Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married.”
But tying the knot isn’t just about flowers and fanfare — it’s also about merging two financial lives. Whether you’re planning a wedding in a garden gazebo like Kelce did, or something more low-key, here are 10 financial steps every couple should take before saying “I do.”
1. Get Comfortable Talking About Finances
You and your partner have probably discussed some crucial aspects of your life together before getting engaged, such as whether or not you want kids, where you see yourself living in the future and whether or not you want to own a home. But finances, despite being a very important topic, often get left out of the conversation. Before you walk down the aisle, make sure you’ve walked through each other’s financial landscape:
- Yearly income (after taxes)
- Debts and repayment plans
- Savings
- Spending habits
Knowing this information should give you clear insight into what you’re signing up for money-wise. You don’t want to learn about your new spouse’s terrible spending habits or huge credit card debt after you’re married. Kelce reportedly proposed in a private garden at his home in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, just before dinner. That kind of thoughtful planning is a great metaphor for financial transparency — it’s about creating a moment that’s meaningful, not flashy.
2. Know Your Expectations
Swift’s billion-dollar empire and Kelce’s NFL career show that even high-profile couples need to align on financial values. One might be a saver, the other a spender — but understanding each other’s expectations helps avoid future conflict. Everyone handles money differently. One partner might be serious about saving 30% of each paycheck, the other may not be as strict about their finances. Align your expectations to avoid future resentment.
3. Set Financial Goals Together
Once you’ve discussed your current financial situation and expectations, you should get together to set some financial goals as a couple. You could come up with several different strategies depending on what your end goal is. If, for example, your priority as a couple is to get out of debt or purchase your first home, you should have a specific idea of how you’ll accomplish that. Whether it’s buying a home, paying off debt, or saving for a honeymoon, set clear goals together. Decide how much you’ll save monthly and what sacrifices you’re willing to make to reach those goals together.
4. Discuss How You’ll Share Expenses
Joint account? Separate accounts? A mix of both? Decide together. Every marriage is different, and there’s no one right way to go about sharing your expenses. Whatever you decide should be a joint decision that each person feels comfortable with.
5. Consider Drafting a Prenuptial Agreement
Prenups aren’t just for celebrities. They’re a smart way to protect both partners and clarify financial boundaries. More and more middle-class couples are choosing to sign an agreement as part of their prenuptial financial plan. While some couples may not want to think about the possibility of divorce, life is unexpected, and more people are realizing that prenups are a smart way to prepare for all possible scenarios. With Swift’s music empire and Kelce’s NFL career, you can bet they’ve considered this step — and you should too.
6. Create a Household Budget
Budgeting helps you reach your goals and avoid surprises. It will also help prevent disagreements about how much should be spent on what. Include categories for essentials, savings, and fun.
7. Assign Responsibility
Divide financial tasks based on strengths. Maybe one of you handles investments while the other manages bills.
8. Don’t Spend All Your Money on the Wedding
Weddings are magical, but they shouldn’t derail your financial future. As important as the wedding is, it’s even more important to start your marriage off on a good note financially and not burden yourself with credit card debt. Swift and Kelce’s engagement was elegant and heartfelt, not extravagant. Focus on celebrating without compromising your long-term goals.
9. Start Saving Now
Life can throw many unforeseen circumstances your way and, once you’re married, you’ll have another life tied to yours. Having a solid savings account — about three to six months of income — will be helpful if the unexpected happens. Whether it’s a surprise album drop or an unexpected job change, being prepared helps you weather any storm.
10. Review Your Personal Insurance
Marriage changes your financial risk profile. Review and update:
- Health insurance: If you and your spouse have separate health plans, compare coverage and costs. Often, switching to a family plan under one partner’s employer can save money and simplify billing. Be sure to check enrollment windows and coverage details before making changes.
- Jewelry Insurance: Engagement rings and other high-value jewelry may not be fully covered under standard homeowners or renters insurance. Consider a separate jewelry insurance policy or a scheduled personal property endorsement to protect against loss, theft, or damage. This is especially important if your ring is as unique and valuable as Taylor Swift’s vintage old mine diamond.
- Disability insurance: This often-overlooked coverage protects your income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. If one partner is the primary earner, disability insurance becomes even more critical. Check if your employer offers it, and consider supplemental coverage if needed.
- Home/renters insurance: Whether you’re moving in together or already share a home, make sure your policy reflects your combined belongings. Update coverage limits to include new valuables (like wedding gifts or electronics), and ensure both names are listed on the policy.
- Auto insurance: Married couples often qualify for multi-car or bundling discounts. Notify your insurer of your marital status and consider combining policies to save money and streamline coverage.
Swift and Kelce’s engagement is a reminder that love is about building a future together — and that includes protecting it. Insurance isn’t glamorous, but it’s a vital part of your financial safety net.
Planning Your Future? Reach Out
Money might not be the most romantic topic, but it’s essential for a healthy marriage. Just like Taylor and Travis, who’ve built a relationship on trust, timing, and shared values, you can start your marriage on solid financial ground by planning ahead. We’re happy to help you protect your future, reach out to our Personal Insurance team.
This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.
Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.
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