Wallet Wins

For most of us, the holiday season plays out the same way every year. By the time November rolls around, the calendar is packed, prices are high, and that overwhelming feeling starts creeping in. Gifts are bought in a rush, travel gets booked at sky-high rates, and we promise ourselves we’ll plan earlier next year.  Then, January arrives. Right when we’re setting New Year’s resolutions to better our finances – save more, eliminate costly debt, improve our credit scores – the holiday credit card bills arrive in the mail.   The whole scenario can feel defeating. However, it doesn’t have to…

As a frequent international traveler and professional planner of many grand adventures for clients, here are some tips I’ve learned that can help you prep like a pro for your next trip!  Start Planning 12-18 Months in Advance  The journey to your dream trip starts now! Decide on a destination, dates, and an overall budget. Cruises go on sale around two years in advance, while flights and hotels open up for booking around the 12-month mark.  Open a Travel Savings Account  Always know what’s in your vacation fund and add to it over time. Set up automatic transfers from your…

In our increasingly digital world, the way we manage money is constantly evolving. The traditional physical wallet, once a staple for carrying cash and cards, is now being replaced by a much more modern and efficient solution: the digital wallet.   Digital wallets, also known as mobile wallets, allow users to securely store their debit and credit card details directly in their smart devices, making transactions effortless. Rather than rummaging through a bulky wallet or bag, you can simply tap your smartphone or smartwatch to complete purchases in seconds.   In this article, we’ll explain how digital wallets work and provide steps…

With the new school year right around the corner, feelings can be mixed. While teenagers dread the thought of waking up before noon, most parents crave the structure and routine of the school day.   However, there’s much to do before school bells ring and buses fill the streets. By now, you’re probably already receiving school supply lists and noticing most of your kids’ clothes no longer fit. Use the following tips to tackle all your back-to-school shopping adventures while keeping your wallet happy.  Make a Comprehensive List  Today, most schools provide a list of all the supplies students are encouraged…

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) programs may be the latest payment craze, but the concept isn’t new. These same principles made credit cards, loans, and even layaway popular. However, these payment options are gaining traction due to the lure of no-interest charges, convenient repayment schedules, and easy approvals. Combine these perks with more people relying on credit to make ends meet in an inflated economy, and it’s easy to understand the hype.   While convenient access to cheap money might be the draw, hidden dangers are lurking in the waters that many overlook accidentally – and because they don’t think it…

The warmer months are here, and car sales are heating up! Summer is one of the busiest times for car buying, thanks to fresh inventory from manufacturers, summer sales at dealerships, and more people looking to sell or trade in their current vehicles. Plus, the nice weather makes test-driving more enjoyable.  If a new ride is on your mind, you have an important question to ask: Should I buy new or used? It sounds like a simple question, but each option comes with pros, cons, and financial trade-offs. In this guide, we’ll break down how new and used vehicles can…

Buying a home right now isn’t easy – prices are high, interest rates have climbed, and there aren’t as many homes on the market. If you’re a first-time buyer, it might feel like homeownership is well out of reach. The competition is tough, and finding something in your price range can be frustrating.  But don’t give up! Homeownership is still possible with the right strategy. By making informed financial decisions and exploring smart buying options, you can significantly improve your chances of success. In this article, we’ll share insights to help you navigate today’s market, manage the homebuying process, and…