Planning to get married in India? Here’s how to budget, split costs, plan goals, and build financial harmony before you say “I do.”
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Introduction: Why Money Matters Before Marriage
Love is important—but financial compatibility is essential for a strong marriage.
In India, weddings are big events. And marriage is more than the wedding—it’s the start of a shared financial life.
So, whether you’re a bride, groom, or even engaged parents—this blog gives you a practical financial checklist to enter marriage with clarity and confidence.
1.
Talk Money—Before the Mandap
Yes, it’s awkward. But vital.
Have these honest discussions:
- How much do you both earn?
- Any debt (education loans, credit cards)?
- Who handles money: joint or separate accounts?
- What are your short- and long-term financial goals?
Tip: Schedule a “money date”—talk openly, not emotionally.
2.
Create a Realistic Wedding Budget
Indian weddings can range from ₹3 lakhs to ₹1+ crore. But how much is actually healthy to spend?
Ask yourselves:
- What’s the wedding budget ceiling?
- Who’s contributing—bride, groom, families?
- Are you taking a loan (please avoid)?
- Will this affect your savings/start of married life?
Break down the wedding cost into:
- Venue & food
- Clothing & jewellery
- Photography & decor
- Gifts, transport, accommodation
- Honeymoon
Template to use: Wedding Budget Tracker (Google Sheet or Notion)
3.
Avoid Starting Marriage with Debt
It’s tempting to overspend and “make it grand.”
But imagine starting your marriage with an EMI for your wedding.
Golden rule:
If you can’t afford it now, cut it down—or postpone it.
Focus on starting your married life with:
- Savings
- Emergency fund
- Travel fund
- Future investment planning
4.
Build a Joint Financial Roadmap
After the wedding, financial life begins.
Create shared financial systems:
- Decide how to split expenses (equally or proportionally?)
- Open a joint account for bills + savings
- Start an emergency fund (₹1–2 lakh minimum)
- Decide investment roles (who monitors, reviews?)
Bonus Tip: Consider a financial planner session together.
5.
Set Common Financial Goals
Think beyond the wedding:
Examples of couple goals:
- Buying a house
- Saving for a child
- Taking a sabbatical/trip
- Early retirement
- Starting a business
Start a SIP together. Even ₹2,000–₹5,000/month builds momentum.
6.
Insurance, Nominations & Legal Setup
Marriage changes your financial structure.
Don’t forget to:
- Update nominees in your bank, MF, LIC accounts
- Review and buy term insurance if planning kids
- Take health insurance covering both partners
- Create or update your will (even a basic one)
✅ Financial Checklist Before Getting Married
- Have a money conversation
- Create and stick to a wedding budget
- Avoid wedding loans
- Set up a joint account or shared expense system
- Create an emergency fund
- Start SIPs for joint goals
- Get insurance and update nominees
✍️ Conclusion: Marriage Is a Financial Partnership
Marriage isn’t just love and companionship—it’s a financial partnership.
And the earlier you align, the stronger your bond becomes.
You don’t need to be rich to start well. You need to be aligned, aware, and intentional.
