In the run up to Valentine's Day it's perhaps timely to review the interface of love and money with some tips for those either married or in or considering long term relationships. Research suggests that money matters has a larger effect on divorce rates than any other factor with speculation it's due to stress related to financial issues and money-related arguments.

So consider the following advice for a marriage where money brings happiness:

• Be honest about your current debts and credits

• Figure out how you'll combine your financial accounts and products

• Realise the influence on how your parents handled money may affect you

• Define your financial goals on your own terms

• Divide the labour - agree who will manage the everyday spending and money management