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Is a Pre-Nup the New Must-Have Wedding Accessory?

22 September 2025

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement has sent social media into overdrive.

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Beyond the romance, there’s been plenty of chatter about money and for good reason. Forbes estimates their combined net worth at around £1.67 billion, with the lion’s share (£1.6 billion) belonging to Taylor.

Now, most of us will never deal with figures anywhere close to that, but the debate about whether they’ll sign a pre-nuptial agreement (or “pre-nup”) is surprisingly relatable. More and more couples are considering pre-nups, whether it’s to protect parental help with a house deposit, or to make sure children from a previous relationship are provided for if things don’t work out.

So, what exactly is a pre-nup, why might you want one, and how do they work here in England? Let’s break it down.

What is a pre-nup?

In simple terms, a pre-nup is a contract a couple signs before they marry or enter a civil partnership. It sets out what should happen to money, property and other assets if the relationship ends.

Why do people get them?

There are lots of reasons why a pre-nup might make sense. For example:

  • You’re tying the knot later in life and already own a home, savings or investments.
  • You’re expecting an inheritance.
  • You have children from a previous relationship and want to ring-fence something for them.

One big point to keep in mind: the family home is usually considered a shared asset. Without an agreement in place, the starting point is often to split the equity 50/50.

What are the upsides?

Pre-nups aren’t just about “planning for failure.” They can bring peace of mind by:

  • Giving clarity and certainty about money matters.
  • Reducing stress and arguments if things do go wrong.
  • Helping to avoid expensive and time-consuming legal battles.

Already married? No problem.

If you didn’t get a pre-nup but now wish you had, there’s another option: a post-nuptial agreement. It’s basically the same thing, just signed after you’re already married or in a civil partnership. Both partners need to agree, of course.

Are they actually enforceable?

Here’s the catch: pre- and post-nups aren’t automatically legally binding in England and Wales. But courts will usually respect them if they’re fair, properly drawn up, and both parties understood exactly what they were signing.

Thinking about one yourself?

If you’re considering a pre- or post-nup, the most important step is to get advice early. There are certain boxes that need to be ticked for the agreement to hold weight later on.

Final thought: Whether you’re a global superstar like Taylor Swift or just trying to make sure your family home is protected, pre-nups can offer clarity and security. They might not sound romantic, but for many couples, they’re a smart part of planning for the future.

Want to know more about pre-nups or family law?
Our Family Law team is here to help. We advise on every aspect of family law, including divorce, civil partnership dissolution, children matters, financial arrangements, domestic abuse, and cohabitation issues.

As proud members of Resolution, we’re committed to helping you find solutions that are amicable, practical, and cost-effective.

Get in touch with our Family Department today to find out how we can support you. Call 01202 294411 or send us a message online: Contact Us AB Solicitors For Your Legal Needs


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