Jen's Reply

Dear Chelsea:

Prenuptial agreements aren’t what they used to be - nor should they make your partner feel dishonored or untrustworthy. And they’re not just for wealthy individuals who want to protect themselves against potential gold diggers. Couples are getting married later in life now, which makes them more likely to have accrued significant assets by the time their special day rolls around. Which means you’re in good company.

I advise you to be open and honest with your fiance. The positive side is that it’s a topic that can help you start planning your financial future together, as well as protect both of you in the unfortunate event of a divorce - a pre-nup will actually give you more power as a couple if that happens, rather than leaving it to a judge to decide.

In the process, you will both have to fully disclose your assets and sources of income whether it’s from employment or inheritances. You and your lawyers will decide together how it will be split, invested or otherwise spent. Look at it as your first real project as a (pre-)married couple - finances are a topic you’ll be teaming to tackle for a lifetime. THis can set a positive foundation!

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