Financially prepare for your happily ever after.
Before the vows are made and rings are exchanged, talk with your soon-to-be spouse about what is realistic to spend on the big day and how you will coordinate finances going forward. While money-related conversations aren't as glamorous as wedding day details, they're important to have ahead of time.
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As you prepare for this exciting new chapter, it’s also the perfect time to get your financial life organized—from managing accounts and benefits to protecting your savings for the future.

 

Paying for the Big Day

As exciting as your wedding day will be, it is just that—a day. Be mindful of how much you want to commit financially to the event.

  • Set a realistic budget that you are both comfortable with
  • Know how others will be contributing financially to the celebration
  • Prioritize your expenses and create a payment calendar
  • Determine where you are willing to settle for more affordable options

Subtle Wedding Day Expenses to Remember

It's easy to budget for bigger ticket items like your venue or dress, but remember that seemingly smaller expenses can add up quickly.

  • Monetary tips for vendors, hair and makeup artists, musical entertainment, etc.
  • Delivery fees for flowers, rental supplies, etc.
  • Postage for invites and RSVP return envelopes
  • Dress and suit/tux alterations
  • Up charges for extended timeframes, cake cutting, upgraded furniture or table dressings, etc.

Paying for a Honeymoon

Your honeymoon is a chance to relax, celebrate, and create lasting memories — but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and a few smart strategies, you can enjoy your dream trip without creating long-term financial stress.

  • Set a realistic honeymoon budget that includes travel, lodging, meals, activities, and a small emergency cushion. 
  • Use a travel rewards credit card to earn points, miles, or cash back — but plan to pay it off using wedding gift money. 
  • Take advantage of travel discounts through programs like AAA and CU Travel (see below). 
  • Consider a honeymoon registry where guests can contribute toward experiences or travel costs instead of traditional gifts.
  • Watch for hidden costs like baggage fees, resort fees, international transaction fees, and factor them into your budget.

Plan for Your Post-Wedding Financial Future

What will getting married mean for your money-management style? To get the conversation started with your significant other, answer the following questions together:

  • Will we be opening a joint account or keeping our finances separate?
  • What debts are you currently paying?
  • Who will be paying for what?

Cash 1

Personal Loans

An alternative to using a credit card, personal loans are a simpler way to borrow for your wedding expenses.

We offer low interest rates and you can take up to 120 months to repay your loan!

Credit Cards 2

Credit Cards

Wedding showers, vendors, flowers, apparel, gifts, and more can rack up some serious points if you have the right tools. American Heritage Mastercards® earn ScoreCard® Rewards Points with each purchase!

Our credit card options offer the best rewards depending on your spending style.

Savings Growth 5

High-Yield Savings Account

Have some time before the big day or looking to build savings in your married life?

Let your savings accrue at a higher rate than a regular savings account with a High-Yield Savings Account!

 

Read Before You Wed

A Financial Checklist for Newlyweds

By: American Heritage
06.12.20
Getting ready to tie the knot? The opportunity to take on life as a team is exciting, but having your lives so closely intertwined also means big changes for your lifestyle. Especially when it comes to managing your finances. Unfortunately, money can be a tricky topic for couples. In fact, it’s the number one thing married couples fight about.
Read This Blog

5 Things to Discuss Before You Tie the Knot

By: American Heritage
02.11.21
Getting married is an exciting time. From announcing the news to your friends and family, to planning a wedding and honeymoon during these uncertain times, you’ve got a lot to think about. So it can be easy to overlook one of the most important subjects that affects newly married couples: money.
Read Blog Post
A young couple manages their finances together in the kitchen

Is a Joint Account Right for Your Relationship?

By: American Heritage
10.08.20
For many couples, opening a joint checking account or a joint savings account is the first step. In fact, some studies have found that couples who pooled their money in shared accounts had happier long-term relationships. But before you make this big step, it’s important to communicate your feelings about combining your finances. It’s also helpful to understand how joint accounts work and know the benefits and challenges that come with them.
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A woman uses her laptop and smartphone to create her budget

Digitize Your Budget with These Online Tools

By: Holly Benedetto
05.21.20
Notebooks, graph paper, and saved receipts have played their part, but now digital budgeting tools have taken center stage. With the ability to track and sort your purchases in real time or pay bills automatically on your behalf, these handy tools are a necessity for getting your budget back on track. Overwhelmed by your options or don’t know what’s out there? We’ve compiled a list of some popular recommendations – including a few tools of our own!
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For Your Honeymoon—or Minimoon!

Spend less and experience more with exclusive hotel rates for American Heritage Credit Union members! Enjoy member only rates on 1.2 million brand name hotels worldwide, and receive 5% back when you book travel using American Heritage credit or debit card.
Explore CU Travel Benefits

Ready to Say "I Do"?

Whether you need help financing an engagement ring, wedding dress, dream venue, or simply paying the caterer, we are here to help! An American Heritage Personal Loan is the perfect tool to start.
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