Smart Money Moves for Every Stage of Life
About Me
Hi, I’m Olivia Brooks, your money sidekick for every big (and small) step along the way.
Managing your money doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here, you’ll find simple, real-world tips you can actually use. No confusing jargon, no lectures, just honest advice to help you save, spend, and grow with confidence. Whether you’re getting your first paycheck, planning for a growing family, or building your financial future, you’re in the right place.
Where to Start?
Not sure where to begin? Pick the path that fits your life right now, whether you’re starting your first job, growing your family, or building strong money habits for the future.
Starting Out
Your guide to those first big money steps: first paychecks, first budgets, and setting up a strong financial start.
Family Finances
Real-life tips for managing money with a growing family. From saving for the future to handling everyday expenses with less stress.
Money Essentials
Simple, practical money basics everyone should know: saving, spending, and building a strong financial foundation for the road ahead.
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Subscribe and you’ll get…
- Printable budget template
- Savings goals checklist
- Quick tips to help you take action today
Latest Posts
401(k) Explained Simply: How It Works, Why It Matters, and How Much It Could Grow
When you start a new job and hear about the 401(k) plan, it might seem confusing at first. But don’t worry, here’s your 401(k) explained simply, with clear, easy-to-understand answers and no complicated jargon. What Is a 401(k)? Let’s start…
Essential Money Conversations to Have Before Having Kids
A year or two before we had kids, every time we went to Target, we somehow ended up wandering into the baby section. Those tiny socks were just too cute to resist. It wasn’t serious planning yet, but those little…
How to Plan a Family Financial Meeting (Even If You Hate Talking About Money)
Talking about money can feel awkward, stressful, or even downright terrifying. But learning how to plan a family financial meeting can change everything, not overnight, but one conversation at a time. Trust me, I know. When my husband and I…
Family Budget Categories You Actually Need (and What to Skip)
When you’re trying to create a budget for your family, it can be overwhelming. There are endless “perfect templates” online telling you what to include, but honestly? Not every family budget category makes sense for your real life. Today, we’re…
How to Create a Family Budget That Actually Works
Learning how to create a family budget that actually works isn’t about restricting every dollar to a rigid box. It’s about building a flexible plan that helps your family spend smarter, save for the future, and still enjoy life along…
How to Combine Finances After Marriage
How to combine finances after marriage is one of those topics that sounds simple enough… until you actually have to do it. When you’re used to having full control over your paycheck, spending, saving, or splurging however you want, suddenly…