How to Save Money as Newlyweds: Easy Ways to Live and Entertain Without Breaking the Bank

There's no doubt that marriage comes with a slew of experiences and mistakes, and a new life comes with new (and more) bills to pay. So what can newlyweds do to save money around the house? Listed below are a few helpful tips.

Eat at Home

Although eating out is much more convenient (and saves a spouse from washing a load of dishes!), try to stay in for all meals. It will be pleasantly surprising to find out how much money can be saved, and the couple will learn a thing or two about themselves and their interests. Bond over new recipes; go to the library to check out healthy eating books and magazines. If choosing to dine out, do it once a week or once a month. And don't forget, this includes brown-bagging lunch! Lots of money will be saved every week and month if bringing lunch from home and packing a do-it-yourself coffee in a thermos.

Shop Smart

Scour through local newspaper flyers. Savings can be discovered in supermarkets and department stores. And when the urge to buy a new sweater or pair of jeans kicks in, go to the clearance racks.

Anniversary Gift-Giving

If celebrating a one month or one year anniversary, set a limit (for instance, $10 max on a gift). Better yet, don't spend anything at all; rather, agree to make greeting cards or prepare favorite dishes for dinner. Couples can also try having breakfast in bed or giving each other massages.

Plan and Budget

Setting a budget around the home on food, office supplies, bathroom necessities, and clothes will help the couple keep track of how much they're spending, and even how much they have left for Christmas gifts and vacations. Most of all, don't keep secrets about each other's spending; if a spouse is going to fancy restaurants with co-workers at lunch, the partner is bound to find out, and the act of keeping a secret isn't the most appropriate in the first place.

Keep Social Gatherings Simple

If a newly married couple is the type to hit the bars, maybe they better change the habit. Instead, friends and family can come over to their new home on the weekends. Having each guest bring a bottle of wine or a snack is a cheap at-home pub night.

Overall, the key to starting a new life together is open communication. Look out for great deals, set a budget, and try to avoid spending money on dining out. The key to saving money successfully in a new marriage is to discuss concerns about finances and work together to save money.