(ARA) – One thing you can definitely say about the current credit crunch – it definately isn’t romantic. For couples about to exchange “I do’s,” a clear understanding of each other’s credit history as singles, and how they will use credit as a couple, is vital to ensure their future wedded bliss.

All signs point to the reality that credit is very likely to be difficult to get for a while, even for those with good credit scores. Getting married is a life-changing event that will most likely impact your credit rating. That is why it is important for couples to be open and honest with each other about their credit histories, credit-use habits and plans for using future credit.

Credit has become an integral part of the American institution of marriage. If you are newlyweds, you’ll likely require credit to pay for some of your basic needs and dreams – from buying your first house to financing the minivan you’ll need to transport the family you plan to have. Your blended credit rating will decide how easy or difficult it is to secure those loans at favorable rates.

So how can you prevent the credit crunch from putting the squeeze on your plans for building a life together? Here are some basic tips:

First, share credit reports. As a single person, your credit score was a private matter between you and the people you borrowed money from. When you’re married, your credit history becomes linked to your spouse’s and he or she deserves to know ahead of time how you rate with lenders. Knowing what’s on your credit report is the first vital step toward reaching your personal financial goals as a couple. Get a copy of your credit report at www.FreeCreditReport.com and present it to your intended.

Next, set mutual priorities and goals. If you both have significant debt, perhaps your goal will be to pay that off before incurring any new debt. Pool your earnings to pay off the highest interest debts first – his $9,000 credit card debt may actually cost you more in interest each month than her $14,000 auto loan.

If you both are relatively debt-free then thats awesome. You can turn your attention to setting savings and spending priorities, including saving for a down payment on a house (the low-rate, zero-down loan is virtually extinct), putting money aside for your retirement or building up your cushion of savings in case the economy gets worse and one of you loses a job. Decide which priority is highest on your list, agree on a time frame for reaching that goal and organize a game plan for getting there.

It’s important to have these discussions before the wedding. You’ll both enjoy your big day more knowing you’re on the same page regarding your financial future.

It is easy to check your credit reports. Web sites like www.FreeCreditReport.com allow you to get your credit report and credit score which gives you more control over your personal finances.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) – Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, one you have mostly likely spent years dreaming about. If color-coordinated linens, a beautiful outdoor tent and elaborate candelabras are your vision, don’t let your budget confine your imagination.

Your dream wedding can be possible, no matter how much you have envisioned, when you rent from an American Rental Association (ARA) member rental store.

Planning your wedding should be fun, not streesful, but the number of decisions can threaten to overwhelm you, especially when trying to find the most cost-effective solutions. Use the expert guidance of a rental store professional to help you find your way through the details.

Once you have determined the location of your event, search for a local ARA member rental store. The rental experts often know exactly what the venue will provide and what you will need to rent. They can point out the unique items available for rent, things that you may not have considered, and the little things you may have forgetten about, like salt and pepper shakers.

Your ARA member rental store is a great place to discover the latest in wedding trends. Leave it to them to learn what is new in chair and table settings and designs, barware, cake stands, tents, food stations and more. They can tell you about the newest items available to make your special day stand out from the rest.

Some unique items that are available for rent and that can help make your day exceptional include:

* Slush machines used to create delicious fruit smoothies and frozen specialty drinks.
* Outdoor heaters to keep your guests perfectly comfortable.
* Chiller tables to serve drinks or specialty food items.
* Popcorn machines to give your guests a fun carnival treat.
* Chair covers and table linens in an array of colors to help make your place settings unforgettable.
* Dance floors that will transform any space into a party.
* Stanchions (posts and fencings) to direct your guests where to go.

Many ARA member rental stores provide even more custom service through their Certified Event Rental Professionals (CERPs) who are trained to help you choose the right rentals to make your dream wedding a reality. Most offer on-site support the day of your wedding, and that’s the day you’ll be looking for all the support you can get!

The wonderful experience and memories of your wedding day will be yours forever. For most everything else? Well, that you can rent. To find your local ARA member rental store, visit www.RentalHQ.com, the world’s largest rental store locator. You can search by geographic location and by the specific type of equipment you are looking to rent.

Courtesy of ARAcontent