Chantal and Drikus Venter are a fun-loving couple who live in Empangeni and while they know the meaning of enjoying life, the couple also know how to practice money management.
Chantal, 31, an occupational therapist by profession, said that as a couple she and her primary school teacher husband both work full-time jobs and they both take care of the household expenses.
“We both work full-time jobs and we share the load of expenses. We both have the set expenses that we each pay. For example: He pays the rent and I pay for food,” Chantal said.
The couple, who spoke to IOL as part of the Valentine’s On A Budget series, said that budgeting is key when it comes to balancing their finances and still being able to do fun things as a couple.
“We make a budget every month with all our expenses, and we leave R300 for entertainment or takeout. This gives us one special night out. If we are saving for something bigger, we save that R300 and use it the next month or when we need it.”
In terms of advice for other couples who are trying to manage their money, Chantal said that they should avoid loans and credit card debt.
“Avoid credit card debt and loans as much as possible. Of course, It is easier said than done.”
“We also advise that couples put money away in a savings account that is specifically for something they really want or are looking forward to. R50 or R100 per month goes a long way. The hard part is having discipline to not spend it within that month.”
Chantal said it was important to have conversations about money, and that was something they did as a couple.
“Communication is key in a relationship and it’s important to be open about finances with each other. Our goal is to do activities together, which means discussing how we are going to achieve it and what we both need to do to get there,” Chantal said.
