Putting Others Before Your Spouse

Romance Author/Relationship Advisor Stella Eromonsere-Ajanaku discusses putting others before your spouse may be a threat to your marriage.

Enjoy and please subscribe to her channel. 💞

Joint Ownership of Property – Does it Work for Unmarried Couples?

 

Photo by Ivan Samkov

Many unmarried couples living together may decide to invest in a home, co-op, condominium or a timeshare.

It can be a ingenious idea and beneficial to enter a joint property ownership, but only if they go in with their eyes wide open and have legal safeguards in place. Here's a breakdown of the pros, cons, and smart strategies:

Potential Benefits

• Shared Investment - Buying property together can build equity and financial stability for both partners.
• Right of Survivorship - If held as joint tenants, the surviving partner automatically inherits the other’s share, avoiding probate.
• Commitment Without Marriage - For couples not ready or willing to marry, joint ownership can reflect a serious commitment.

Risks to Watch Out For

• No Automatic Legal Protections - Unlike married couples, unmarried partners don’t get default legal rights if the relationship ends, or one partner dies.
• Unequal Contributions - If one partner pays more toward the down payment or mortgage, disputes can arise without clear documentation.
• Breakups Get Messy - If the relationship ends, dividing the property can be complicated and may require a partition suit, which is a legal process forcing sale or division.

Photo by Kindel Media

Smart Legal Safeguards 

• Cohabitation Agreement - This contract outlines who owns what, how expenses are split, and what happens if you break up. Courts usually uphold these if they’re fair and properly executed.
• Title Structure: Decide whether to hold the property as joint tenants (equal shares, right of survivorship) or tenants-in-common (customizable shares, no automatic inheritance).
• Estate Planning: A will or trust can ensure your partner inherits your share if you pass away.

Joint ownership can work wonderfully for unmarried couples, but only with clear communication, legal planning, and a shared understanding of the financial and emotional stakes. If you're considering it, talking to a real estate attorney or financial advisor is a wise move.

If you would like help drafting a sample cohabitation agreement or exploring title options, visit the two sites below:

Property Rights

Family Law

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Is Cohabitation the Right Path for Single Couples?

Photo by SHVETS production

Cohabitation is when two people in a romantic relationship live together without being legally married. Of course, this is nothing new. Couples have been cohabitating since the world begin. In some cases, it was known as Common Law Marriage. A small number of states and the District of Columbia currently allow the formation of new common law marriages. These districts include Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Texas. Some states have unique limitations. For instance, Utah allows for the recognition of a marriage by petitioning a court to declare that statutory requirements have been met. New Hampshire offers a restricted form of recognition that applies only for inheritance purposes upon the death of a partner.

It’s a mutual choice for couples who want to test compatibility, share expenses, or simply enjoy each other’s company before saying, “I do” or instead of marriage altogether. In today’s dating landscape, cohabitation has become a common step in many relationships, blending love and practicality under one roof.

Unlike traditional dating, where partners keep separate homes, cohabitation means sharing daily life more intimately. You split bills, chores, and personal space while navigating the difficulties of a live-in relationship. For some, it’s a trial run for marriage; for others, it’s a long-term arrangement that works without a legal commitment. The rise of cohabitation reflects shifting attitudes toward love and relationships, with many valuing flexibility and shared experiences over formal vows.

Photo by Anastasia  Shuraeva

Living together can strengthen a relationship by fostering deeper communication and teamwork. But it also comes with challenges—like adjusting to each other’s habits or dealing with conflicts without an easy exit. That's why open conversations about expectations, finances, and future goals are crucial before moving in together.

The dating and relationship business often highlights cohabitation as a milestone, offering advice on everything from merging decor styles to splitting responsibilities fairly. Whether it’s driven by love, convenience, or financial reasons, cohabitation is a modern approach to partnership that continues to grow in popularity. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your relationship, one shared coffee pot at a time. 

Thoughtful Holiday Gift Ideas for Women, Men, Lovers, and Partners

Photo by cottonbro studio

Memorable Holiday Gifts for Women

Finding the perfect holiday gift for the woman in your life does not have to be stressful. Whether she is a close friend, partner, or family member, the key is to choose something that reflects her personality and interests. Here are some great ideas to spark inspiration.

For the beauty lover, a luxurious skincare set, or a high-quality makeup palette is always a hit. Look for brands she already enjoys or opt for a subscription box that delivers new products monthly. If she loves pampering herself, a cozy robe, scented candles, or a spa gift card can make her holiday extra relaxing.

Bookworms will appreciate a bestseller from her favorite genre or a beautifully bound classic. Pair it with a stylish bookmark or a warm blanket for the ultimate reading experience. For the fashion-forward woman, consider a chic scarf, elegant jewelry, or a trendy handbag—something timeless that she can wear year-round.

Tech-savvy women might love wireless earbuds, a sleek smartwatch, or a portable phone charger. If she enjoys cooking, a high-end kitchen gadget, a gourmet food basket, or a cookbook from a celebrity chef could be a delightful surprise.

Personalized gifts add a special touch—think custom jewelry with her birthstone, a monogrammed tote, or a photo book filled with cherished memories. For the adventurous type, consider an experience gift like concert tickets, a weekend getaway, or a fun class (think pottery or mixology).

No matter what you choose, the best gifts come from the heart. Pay attention to her hobbies and preferences, and you will find something that brings a genuine smile to her face this holiday season.

Photo by Lisett Kruusimäe

Memorable Holiday Gifts for Men

Finding the perfect holiday gift for the special man in your life—whether he is your partner, husband, or lover—can be tricky. You want something that shows you care while also matching his personality and interests. Whether he is into tech, fashion, or experiences, there is plenty of ways to make his holiday unforgettable.

For the tech lover, consider gadgets like wireless earbuds, a smartwatch, or a high-quality gaming accessory. If he is always on his phone, a sleek phone stand or a portable charger could be a lifesaver. For the stylish guy, upgrade his wardrobe with a premium leather wallet, a cozy cashmere scarf, or a classic cologne set. These gifts add a touch of luxury to his daily routine.

If your man enjoys hobbies, personalize your gift to match his passion. A whiskey-tasting set, a custom-engraved pocketknife, or a high-end coffee maker can show you pay attention to what he loves. For the adventurous type, surprise him with tickets to a concert, a weekend getaway, or even a fun experience like a cooking class or skydiving session. Memories often outlast material gifts.

For a romantic touch, go for sentimental presents like a handwritten love letter paired with a framed photo, a star map of your first date, or a custom playlist of songs that mean something to your relationship. These small gestures can deepen your connection.

Do not forget subscription services—whether it is a streaming platform, a gourmet snack box, or a book club membership, these gifts keep giving long after the holidays.

Photo by Askar Abayev

The key is to choose something that reflects his personality and your relationship. Whether it is practical, sentimental, or only plain fun, the right gift will show him how much he means to you. Happy Holiday Gift Giving. ©

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Who Should Pay on the First Date? By Vivienne Diane Neal

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The first date is electrifying, but it can also be awkward—especially when the bill arrives. The age-old question lingers: who should pay? While traditional norms suggested men should foot the bill, modern dating has blurred the lines. Here is how to manage it without the stress.

I believe the couple should decide before going on the date as to who will pay.

Some people still believe the person who started the date should pay. If you asked them out, offering to cover the check shows confidence and courtesy. But if your date insists on splitting, do not argue—it is a sign of independence, not disinterest. Others prefer going Dutch (splitting the bill) to keep things fair from the start. This avoids any assumptions or pressure, making it a popular choice for casual meetups.

If you are unsure, a simple, "Can I get this?" opens the conversation. Their response will guide you in. If they hesitate, suggest splitting. If they are adamant about paying, thank them and offer to cover the next outing. Small gestures, like grabbing coffee or dessert afterward, can also balance the dynamic.

Photo by Nadin Sh

Money should not dictate the vibe. Focus on connection over who pays. A first date is about getting to know each other, not keeping score. If things go well, there will be more chances to take turns treating each other.

At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule. Whether you pay, split, or take turns, the key is to communicate openly and keep the mood light. Subsequently, a great first date is less about the bill and more about the chemistry.© 

Office Romance – Yes, or No? By Vivienne Diane Neal

Photo by Ron Lach

Wow, things have really changed since I started my first job in 1964. From that point on, I started to work for a temporary agency where I got to work at various companies. And even back then, there were rumors of co-workers engaging in romantic connections and/or extra-marital affairs. Some were obvious while others were subtle.

Office romance is an issue that has been around for eons, and for good reasons. When people spend extended hours together, sparks may begin to fly. Whether it is an elusive crush on a coworker or a full-blown relationship, romance in the workplace is common then it was sixty years ago, but it comes with its own set of complications, and advantages.

One of the biggest magnets of office romance is convenience. You are already spending most of your day with your colleagues, so getting to know someone feels natural. Shared projects, coffee breaks, and after-work hangouts create plenty of opportunities for a connection. Plus, there is something undeniably exciting about stolen glances during meetings or quick chats by the water cooler.

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto

However, dating a coworker is not all wine and roses. Office affairs can get messy if things go south. Awkward encounters in the break room, office gossip. Even professional conflicts can turn a sweet romance into a professional headache and may lead to sexual harassment complaints. This is why many firms have policies about relationships on the job. Some companies even require employees to disclose their romantic relationship to Human Resource.

If you are considering a romance in the workplace, it is smart to think ahead. Keep things professional during work hours to avoid making others uncomfortable. Be mindful of power undercurrents, especially if one person is in a higher position than the other. And if things do not work out, manage the breakup with maturity to keep the work environment drama-free.

Despite the risks, many people find love at work and some even marry their coworkers! When managed well, office romance can lead to strong partnerships built on shared experiences and mutual respect. Just remember to go about it carefully, keeping both your heart and your career in mind. The last thing you want is for a fling to turn into a career hindrance. ©💔

Simple Ways to Curb Financial Stress in Your Marriage

Stella Eronmonsere-Ajanaku, international romance author and relationship advisor will share her take on ways to curb financial stress in your marriage.

Please visit and subscribe to her channel.©

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