Who doesn’t like making plans for something fun? Whether it’s a night out with your closest friends or significant other to celebrate Valentine’s Day, a child’s birthday party, a Caribbean cruise, a weekend getaway with family, or even a wedding, planning joyful moments gives us something to look forward to. The cold days of February give us the perfect excuse to cozy up by the living room fireplace, scroll through ideas on our phones or tablets, and begin dreaming about what the rest of the year could hold. Often overlooked, February is actually the perfect month to plan the most meaningful events of the year.
I remember a flurry of women around me, frantically applying makeup and hurriedly pulling on red dresses. My Aunt Candy was in the middle of it all, wearing a long white gown and a veil. My sister walked into the room carrying a basket of flowers, also wearing a long white gown—a tiny replica of Aunt Candy’s dress. I was 4 years old and brimming with joy—until suddenly, they were all gone. As I sat with my babysitter, it hit me: I was not going to be part of this “wedding” thing everyone had been talking about for months.
The 2025 economy was a mixed bag. Economic growth was strong, but job creation weakened sharply after May. Inflation fell from post-pandemic highs but remained above its pre-pandemic trend.
Saying “I do” is more than a romantic promise; it is the creation of a new legal, emotional, and financial partnership. While the trend of “yours, mine, and ours” accounts has gained popularity, there is a profound psychological and practical advantage to fully combining finances. I’ve worked with more than a hundred couples on their personal finances, and they are almost always better off by transitioning from “me” to “we.” This shift fosters transparency, simplifies goal-setting, and ensures that both partners are equally invested in their shared future.
Michigan winters demand layers, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style. When February brings crisp air and snowy landscapes, it’s the perfect opportunity to show off your fashion sense while staying cozy. Forget bulky and boring—this year, we’re all about chic, functional, and fun outfits that will have you looking and feeling fantastic, even when the thermometer dips.
