Coupon Company Partners with Relationship Expert Dr. Terri Orbuch, Ph.D., to Provide Couples with Money-Saving Strategies for Healthier Relationships
Lavish presents and expensive getaways are easy to daydream about, but are not always the key to exciting a partner in a relationship or marriage. According to an April 2014 Valpak Consumer Survey, 74 percent of panelists said they find people who save money responsibly more attractive*. Savers, not spenders, are the new sexy. Besides sparking an attraction, being thrifty can help couples sustain a long-lasting relationship. Sixty nine percent of survey panelists considered learning how to save money responsibly together as a way to improve a relationship*.
Valpak, a leader in local print and digital coupons, is partnering with trusted relationship expert, author, professor and therapist Dr. Terri Orbuch, Ph.D., also known as The Love Doctor®, to provide helpful money advice to couples. She is the director of a landmark study called "The Early Years of Marriage Project," funded by the National Institutes of Health, where she has followed the same 373 married couples for more than 27 years.
"In talking with couples nationwide, I have uncovered that being financially responsible can increase the romantic desire between a person and their partner," said relationship expert Dr. Orbuch. "People who focus on saving smart are seen as more desirable than those who spend excessively because savers are viewed as responsible, trustworthy, and more committed to the relationship."
One of Dr. Orbuch's key words of advice for those in a relationship is to plan novel or surprising experiences together that will keep the passion alive, such as trying new restaurants or a different cuisine for a romantic evening out on the town. It is very common for a relationship to fall into a rut, and partners start to feel as though they are missing all the good things that make relationships fun and exciting.
"Valpak is the go-to source to find the best local deals on restaurants and entertainment experiences to enjoy with a partner and not break the bank," said Michael Vivio, President of Cox Target Media, provider of Valpak. "Saving money on 'date nights' or when exploring new activities is an easy solution to stay within budget."
For couples that are taking their relationship to the next level and deciding to plan the ultimate 'date night' at the altar this wedding season, Valpak also offers local deals on transportation and beauty services that are cause for couples to celebrate as the national average wedding spend is at an all-time high.
But savings can't go out the window once you are committed. "My research has found that money is the number one source of conflict in the early years of a relationship," said Dr. Orbuch. "Even after a relationship matures, money issues tend to stick around. In fact, seven out of 10 couples report that money causes tension in their relationship**."
Based on her extensive research spanning over two decades, Dr. Orbuch has created a series of money strategies to foster a healthier relationship and keep the spark alive:
Understand Partner's Perspective
Don't assume that you understand how your partner views money – ask questions instead. Listen to what your partner says. Then put yourself in his/her shoes to see what would be important to you if you had the same view.
Share Responsibility
It is not unusual for one partner to play the primary role in managing the finances, but it is vital that both partners be involved and share in the responsibility. Studies show that couples have less conflict when they share (or consult one another) in all big financial decisions.
Set Savings Goals
Agree on some spending/saving rules or limits. Couples can pick from a number of possibilities. For example, by making a plan to take advantage of Valpak offers in your local neighborhood, you can consistently save money. Discuss options with your partner.
Respect Differences
Studies show that when it comes to finances, partners often have different views. Compromise is essential, and it is important to discover the compromise style that works best for your relationship, which could be 'meeting in the middle' or even using a talking stick to make decisions.
Talk Regularly
Sit down with your partner, at least every three months, to have a "money chat." List and discuss your short- and long-term money goals and savings plans for your family.
