This post is the final part in a two-part series focusing on love and money from two very different perspectives: the female point of view and the male point of view. View part one of the "She said, He said" series.

The first part of the “Love and Money: She said, He said” series focused on the traits women find attractive in a mate, specifically when it comes to finances. For part two, we’re going to take a look at the male perspective when it comes to love and money.

There are a number of studies that have been conducted on this topic, and – though not particularly surprising – significantly more men significantly more men place a higher value on attractiveness in a partner compared to women.

According to MMI’s Love and Money survey, out of six traits, women ranked attractiveness sixth, while the rankings for men are as follows:

1. Common values and interests
2. Attractiveness
3. Job security
4. Low debt level
5. A good credit history
6. Adequate savings

However, various studies and research conducted on the traits men find appealing in a mate has shown that over the years, financial stability has become a more important factor for men. Researchers at the University of Iowa find that men increasingly are interested in intelligent, educated women who are financially stable.

And according to MMI’s Love and Money survey, while a “low debt level” is more important to women than men, more men consider a mate’s high debt levels to be a deal-breaker in a relationship.

These findings aren’t necessarioly surprising when considering the fact that relationships are all about give-and-take. And whether you’re male or female, you will likely be wary of entering into a relationship where you feel you may have to “give” more than the other person.

On that same note, one trait men find universally unattractive is a partner who is “needy” – and that can mean financially needy as well. Men want to know that a woman can stand on her own two feet. And that’s a great quality to have – whether you’re in a relationship or not!

For more great Love and Money resources:

• View the full survey results.
• Visit the Love and Money section on MoneyManagement.org.
• Download our free Love and Money eBook.

The topic of love and money is highly emotional for both men and women. The first part of our two-part series will focus on the "She said" perspective.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, you’re probably racking your brain for ways to have fun with your honey without breaking the bank. These days, women – and men, for that matter – can appreciate the art of a cheap date.

The following tips prove frugal and fun can go hand-in-hand – and with any luck, you and your date will also!

1. Two-for-one. Challenge yourself and your date to have a coupon-only day! There are a lot of good deals to be found. If you have an idea for a place you want to go, visit their website for specials and discounts. If you can’t think of anything, check out sites such as Groupon and Living Social or grab the coupon book from your mail.
2. Get thrifty. Thrift stores are fun for many reasons. First of all, you’ll never get bored people-watching. And secondly, you’re bound to come across some interesting items if you look hard enough. Think of it as a treasure hunt. And the person who makes the best “discovery” wins!
3. Frolic in the park. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the great outdoors the way you did as a kid – swing on the swings, feed the ducks and throw the Frisbee around.
4. Soak up some culture. Visit a local museum or art exhibit. Admission fees are usually minimal, and it’s a great way to explore your own city. On the plus side, you won’t have to worry about the conversation falling flat – just move on to the next exhibit!
5. Go fly a kite. Hopefully your date won’t say the same! Pick up a kite at a local drug store or dollar store and then head out on a breezy day for some good, frugal fun.
6. Gaze at the stars. Stargazing can be romantic and magical on a mild, clear evening. Just make sure you have bug spray and somewhere comfortable to sit. Bring along some tasty treats and a bottle of bubbly if you’re really looking to impress!
7. Set the stage. Go see a local theater production. Even if it’s at a local high school or church, you’d be surprised how fun these events can be.
8. Hit the rink. Whether it’s ice skating or roller-skating, this one is a classic – even if you’re not in middle school! So let your hair down, lace up those skates and have fun!
9. Show your best side. Lend a helping hand by volunteering at a soup kitchen or retirement home. You could even head over to an animal shelter and pet the cats or play with the pups. There’s really nothing more enjoyable than getting to spend time together while putting a smile on someone else’s face.
10. Whip up some love. Host a dinner where you each create your favorite dish for the other person. You can either cook your dishes together or separately, but the end result will be a delectable evening that’s heavy on love, and light on green.

For more financial tips for couples, download our free Love and Money eBook. Use this valuable resource to help make finances a delight, rather than a drain, on your relationship.

There are a lot of things to love about working at Money Managment International.

You don’t have to get stuck paying the high price of roses on Valentine’s Day. While they may not be traditional, these other blooms can express your adoration just as well, without you having to break-up with your budget.

Whether Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just a whim inspires you to splurge on a gift for your sweetie, pause before you swipe that credit card. The best way to celebrate a once-in-a-lifetime love isn’t necessarily with a store bought, generic gift. These 11 gift ideas may not cost you much, but they are rich in thought and sure to be treasured by the one you love.

1. Write a poem or love letter. Nothing says “I love you” more than sweet, tender words from the heart. Use your creative side and let that special someone know how you really feel.
2. Bring him or her breakfast in bed. Showcase your culinary skills by making your sweetie his or her favorite breakfast food. Nothing says lovin’ like somethin’ from the oven.
3. Treat your significant other to a spa treatment. A day spa masseuse may be pricey but you’re not! Give your loved one a foot and back massage at home. Create a romantic ambiance with a sweetly-scented bubble bath and some rose petals in and around the bathtub.
4. Prepare a romantic candlelit dinner. Transform your dining room into a beautiful four-star restaurant. Enjoy each other’s company and reconnect in a quiet atmosphere.
5. Recreate your first date. Maybe it was dinner and a movie, maybe it was a walk in the park—the key is to recreate that initial spark between the two of you.
6. Give your love a break. If you usually divide the chores at home, give your partner a sweet surprise by doing both your shares. Giving them a chance to put their feet up and relax will show how much you appreciate all they do.
7. Create a soundtrack of your romance. Choose songs that are memorable for the two of you. The first song you danced to, the song that best defines your relationship, and songs that make you think of the other are a few ideas to load into your MP3 player.
8. Rent a favorite flick. Spending quality time together is one of the best gestures to show someone you care. Instead of going out to a crowded movie theater, rent a movie and watch it while snuggling on the sofa.
9. Buy red balloons. Fill his or her favorite room in the house with red balloons and hand-written notes with romantic verses on them.
10. One step closer toward achieving a common goal. Make an agreement with your partner to forgo the gifts on the occasion you are celebrating. Instead, put that money toward achieving a shared goal, such as homeownership, paying off a debt, or saving for a romantic vacation.
11. Give a printable gift certificate. Sometimes the best gift you can give is your time. Create a personalized gift using this free printable gift certificate generator.

For more on finance and romance, download the free Love and Money eBook.

Valentine’s Day rolls around each year on February 14, regardless of the economic conditions. This obvious lack of sensitivity on the part of Cupid, the mythical god of love, leaves many wondering how to show their affection without breaking the bank.

If you find yourself in financial distress, perhaps the best gift this Valentine’s Day is not to spend money on a token of your affection, but to provide your loved one with something that’s not on sale at the stores: a sense of financial peace of mind. This type of financial peace is not based on the size of your bank account. Instead, it is understanding that regardless of the circumstances, the money is being handled responsibly. Putting the following actions in place which will provide both you and your loved one with a better sense of financial stability, even in the hard times.

• Get financially organized. This sends a calming signal to your loved one that you’re on top of things. And, since it’s tax season, this is the perfect time to shred what you don’t need and file what you do. 
• Be realistic about the financial situation you’re in. If you’ve lost your job, it’s irresponsible to continue spending as you did when employed. Learn to live within your means, and don’t finance your lifestyle through credit. 
• Track your spending. When every penny counts, it’s important to count every penny. Doing so will send the signal that you have control over your money, something that mindless spending will never accomplish.
• Create a personal cash-flow chart. Using a standard calendar, list all paydays and anticipated amount of the paycheck. Next, list which bills are to be paid out of each check. This eliminates the last-minute scrambling to meet payment due dates, and avoids costly overlimit and overdraft fees. 
• Find a way to save money. A financial safety net in the form of a savings account is a calming factor when unexpected expenses occur. It’s a comfort to know you’re prepared. Start by having 10 percent of each check deposited into a savings account, and vow to not touch it except for true emergencies. 
• Bank any bonuses or windfall money. You won’t miss what you never had. Use this money to start or bulk up your savings account. 
• Review the withholding allowances from your paycheck. In recent years, millions of people have received an income tax refund of over $2,000. Often, these are the very same people who struggle to make ends meet each month, and could have used an extra $200 in their paycheck. Go to IRS.gov and type in the words “withholding calculator’ into the search box. In a matter of minutes you’ll see the appropriate number of withholding allowances for your situation. Then, adjust your W4 accordingly. 
• If you get an income tax refund, use it wisely. Catch up on any past due bills, make needed repairs to the house or car, put 10 percent into your savings account, and then splurge on something special for your family that is under $100. 

Finally, vow to make the most of your money by following these 9 tips. 

1. Ditch your credit card if it has an annual fee attached, but first, make sure you are eligible for new credit. Issuers have tightened their lending standards, and you don’t want to be left without access to any credit.
2. Don’t use an ATM if it charges you a fee.
3. Bank where free checking is offered.
4. Put your money where it earns the most by finding the best rates available for savings and CDs. You can compare rates at CreditCards.com and Bankrate.com.
5. Buy generic groceries which are estimated to be 27 percent cheaper than their name-brand counterparts, and are often made by the same company.
6. Get back to the basics and start cutting coupons.
7. Utilize any savings plans at work. If your company offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), but you’ve never bothered to investigate it, now’s the time. Taking advantage of the savings allowed by earmarking expenses to be paid through an FSA can result in real savings.
8. Consider cutting back on contributions to your retirement plan at work. When you’re trying to find extra money, this is a much better option than dipping into your actual retirement account. Just remember to play catch-up when your finances turn the corner.
9. Make sure you’ve taken advantage of every tax credit and/or deduction available to you.

This Valentine's Day, remember that actions speak louder than words.  When your loved one sees you putting the above steps in place, he or she will know how much you care about them. This is definitely a gift you can afford to give.

As you might remember, I am a huge fan of regifting. However, let’s face it: regifting is not always an option. Take Valentine’s Day for example (yeah, people have actually tried that).

If the idea of giving your loved one the perfect gift is stressing out your mind and your wallet, it is time to take a step back. Great gifts don’t necessarily cost a lot of money.

If you really want to give something valuable, give your time. Give your Valentine vouchers good for breakfast in bed or a “pass” for some much needed free time. The possibilities are endless!  The best part is that you are just a few easy steps away from being a thoughtful, yet frugal, gift giver.

1. Click on the sample below
2. Complete the form with your gift certificate information
3. Press the “create” button
4. View and print your gift certificate!

If you’re looking for love, getting your finances in order now will not only make you a more attractive prospect, but will help build a healthy relationship. If you’re already in a relationship, recommit yourself to building a stronger and more financially secure partnership by following a few helpful suggestions:

Don’t be afraid to share your feelings. No matter how unromantic, having an open and honest discussion about your financial past and future is vital to your financial success. Remember that everyone has their own money style, which has been shaped by their past experiences. Approaching money issues honestly and openly gives you a much better chance at a strong, healthy financial relationship. 

Make a commitment. No one cares more about your financial security than the two of you. Make a promise to each other to take joint responsibility and take steps to better your overall financial position by paying down debt and establishing a savings cushion. Establishing a savings cushion could keep a financial setback from becoming a financial disaster. And, reducing debt allows you to make smart financial choices in the future. 

Set financial goals and vow to keep them. Make sure that your goals that are both specific and achievable. Try to set goals that are equally rewarding so that you’re both working towards the same goal. Depend on each other for support and encourage one another to stay focused and committed.

Spend some quality time. Schedule a time to meet each month to discuss your financial goals and expectations. Review your budget regularly in order to identify problem areas. Don’t be discouraged by the occasional setback. Make adjustments as often as needed to ensure financial success.

It is a well-known -and unfortunate- fact that financial problems are one of the leading causes of disagreement for couples. Because money matters, it’s important for couples to devote more time to improving their financial standing.

Many couples spend more time planning their wedding than their financial interdependence. Yet it is common knowledge that money is the a common source of disagreement for couples, regardless of age or life stage. Because money matters, commit to spending more time to improving your financial position.

1.   Start with something romantic by talking about your dreams for the future.  Where do you want to be in 3, 5, or 10 years? 
2.    Next, make a joint commitment to overcome any obstacles standing in your way.  It can be very unifying to work toward a common goal. 
3.   Finally, vow to meet each month to discuss your financial goals and expectations. Review your budget regularly in order to identify problem areas.  Don’t be discouraged by the occasional setback.  Make adjustments as often as needed to ensure financial success.     

As you go through these exercises, make the resulting decisions together and agree to disagree.  Remember that everyone has their own money style, which has been shaped by their past experiences.  Just because your partner’s style is different does not make it wrong. Approaching the issues honestly and openly gives you a much better chance at a strong, healthy financial relationship.  For more on this topic, watch the video about Love and Money on the MMI YouTube Channel.