Children, sex and money are three topics that can make or break a marriage.

Experts say financial stress does more damage to a relationship than almost any other kind of turmoil.

Since it’s the busy season for weddings, the KRMG team thinks it’s a great opportunity to do our part to keep our listeners blissfully married.

Joey Snyder, Tulsa Market President of First Fidelity Bank, says, “Bad financial practices can have a way of creating a wedge in even the strongest marriages. Couples need to budget together and have the tough, honest financial conversations that many people avoid.”

Here are some other recommendations from Snyder for newlyweds or couples who’ve been married for years:

· Communicate- Couples should communicate before making large purchases, opening or closing a credit line or changing jobs.

· State your goals- Discuss where you want to live, career paths and your financial objectives for the next decade. Discussing goals and expectations prevents future surprises.

· Pay off debt- From credit cards, student loans and even the wedding itself, couples should focus on paying off debt. Paying off debt saves money in the long run.

· Discuss whether to combine finances- Combining bank accounts, credit accounts or mortgages has advantages and disadvantages. Discuss what works best for your long-term goals.

· Budget- Couples should create a monthly budget starting from net pay. The budget should deduct monthly bills, such as mortgage/rent, water, electric and automobile, as well as estimated monthly costs such as gasoline, food and haircuts. If you come in under budget, deposit the remaining money in your savings account.

· Budget for fun- Make sure budgets include money for fun. Movie tickets or dining out a couple times a month can help you stay on track without feeling deprived.

· Practice financial fidelity- Be honest and open with each other.

· Be a saver- All households should work to build a minimum of six months net income in a savings account for emergencies. It will build as an investment for your family’s future.

Snyder says, “It may not be as exciting as a honeymoon, but following this financial advice will have a more long-term positive impact on a relationship than any vacation.”