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If money is already causing problems in your relationship, we offer a few tips to help you figure out where to cut costs.

A new survey of married men, conducted by the University of Kentucky Survey Research Center, reports that money is the #1 issue that couples argue about. Neil Chethik, whose book, VoiceMale (Simon & Schuster, 2006), is based on the survey’s results, says, “It’s normal for couples to start having money arguments as they plan their wedding. They may be making financial decisions together for the first time.” Chethik suggests:

• Getting both partners involved with money issues. Mutual resentment develops when one partner understands the finances, while the other avoids them.
• Having “nonheated” conversations about money. Usually, couples avoid these talks until an issue arises.
• Creating a budget together (agree to modify it as your needs change).

What Do You Fight About?

Money: 49%
Housework: 28%
Sex: 17%
Source: bridalguide.com

Tax tips for Newlyweds

Good news for marrieds: By filing jointly, you and your husband will most likely pay less in taxes than if you were filing as two single people. Just remember:

• If you’re changing your name, be sure to do so on your Social Security card (go to socialsecurity.gov to obtain Form SS-5). Not doing so may needlessly delay any refund that you’re entitled to.
• You may need to change the amount you’re withholding on your W-4. For a withholding calculator, go to irs.gov, or ask your tax professional.

When Not to Cut Costs

There are a million clever ways to save money on your wedding. But be warned! Samantha Goldberg of Gold Events Planning in Bridgewater, New Jersey, says that you may regret:

• Not videotaping the celebration. "I've seen so many brides make this decision," Goldberg says. "Later, they say, ‘I really want to watch myself walk down the aisle!' The secret is to hire a professional videographer but ask him to do limited filming, not ‘straight-through' filming. Also ask him to do limited editing on your tape, so that you can finish the job later on—perhaps by using a cash wedding gift from some helpful relative."
• Stinting on flowers. "You don't want anything that looks cheap," Goldberg says. She suggests hiring a florist to do one simple centerpiece, maybe using hydrangeas or roses and lots of pretty greens, that you can easily replicate. Then you and your bridesmaids can copy the design in as many centerpieces as you like. "You're saving tons of money by not needing to pay the florist for her time," says Goldberg. "And you will be amazed at the professional-looking results!"

Your Brilliant Budget

We couldn't afford centerpieces. So we had our October wedding in the conservatory of a botanical garden. Through the glass we could see the colorful trees against the evergreens. Single mums of orange, red and yellow were strewn on the tables, as if they'd been blown in by the wind." —Emily Upham, Teaneck, NJ. Wedding: October 31, 2005.