For this DIY gardener on a budget, what started as a homeowner project has become something that sustains her mental health. 

Landscaping your garden: £7k up front, cheap and cheerful here on in

How much does it cost to landscape your garden?

By the time we hit our 40s, we’d been to more than fifty weddings. We really knew what was worth paying for – and weren’t afraid to scrap stuff.

Getting married: £450 for the registry office, £3k for the venue, £20k all in

How much does it cost to get married?

There was an ocean of distance between me and my girlfriend. We couldn’t make it work.

“Money broke us up. Long distance cost too much.”

We don’t want to be married anymore, but right now, our son’s quality of life is more important.

“We can’t afford to end our marriage and live apart.”

In 2024, the average house price for first-time buyers was £259,000, while the average wedding was £23,420. How do people afford both?

“Property vs wedding: How can I do both?!”

I can’t shake the guilt that I’m holding him back. 

“I earn 10% of what my partner makes.”

I want to be a hands-on dad and work flexibly, but having an unreliable income is really tough.

“I went freelance to save on childcare costs.”

Ever wondered about getting professional help for your mental health? Tackling grief and a huge life change, this writer documents her spending. TW: Bereavement.

Therapy: “£55 per session, £6.35 per milkshake”

How much does it cost to have therapy?

Anonymous writers exploring the tricky topic of money. All stories reflect personal, real-life experiences. 

Anonymous contributor