WSJ Your Money Briefing She’s Frugal but He’s a Big Spender. How Do They Make Their Relationship Work?
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Jun 13, 2025 
In this lively discussion, WSJ Personal Space columnist Katie Roiphe shares her take on managing financial differences with her husband, a big spender. They explore the humorous side of balancing frugality against extravagant spending habits. Katie offers insights on how their contrasting views shape their relationship dynamics and emphasizes the importance of financial independence. Through anecdotes, they illustrate how laughter and communication can turn potential conflicts over money into opportunities for growth.
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Example of Spending Contrasts
- Katie Roiphe is frugal and cautious; she loves sales and hates expensive meals.
- Her husband once ordered an expensive bistro hamburger for their dog, showing his extravagant spending.
Frugal Feels Less Fun
- In relationships, the frugal partner often feels drab and policing, while the extravagant partner seems joyful and energizing.
- Being the sensible spender is less appealing despite being "right."
Separate Accounts and Humor
- Having separate bank accounts helps maintain financial sanity by allowing personal spending freedom.
- Using humor eases tensions about spending habits and prevents conflicts from escalating.