Talking about death or inheritance isn’t something most couples enjoy, but it’s one of the most meaningful conversations you’ll ever have.
Writing a will together is an act of care, trust, and planning for the future. It’s not just about money, it’s about making sure your loved one is protected and your shared wishes are clear.
At Coastal Legacy, we help couples across Hampshire, Fareham, Gosport, and Portsmouth navigate these conversations with understanding and ease. Here’s how to get started.
1. Choose the Right Time
The best time to talk about a will is when life feels calm and you both have space to think.
Avoid bringing it up during stressful or emotional moments. Instead, choose a quiet evening or weekend when you can both relax and speak openly.
You might begin with something simple like:
“I’ve been thinking about how we can make sure everything’s in place for the future, have you ever thought about writing a will together?”
Gentle, practical language helps keep the tone calm and reassuring.
2. Focus on the Positive
Many people hesitate to talk about wills because they associate them with loss. But a will is really about love and security.
It’s an opportunity to:
- Protect your home and savings
- Make decisions together about inheritance
- Ensure your children or family are cared for
- Avoid legal or financial stress later on
Framing the discussion as a positive, practical step helps remove the fear and focus on what really matters…peace of mind.
3. Address Common Worries
It’s normal for one partner to be more hesitant than the other. Common concerns include:
- “It feels too soon.”
- “It’ll be expensive.”
- “We don’t have much to leave.”
Reassure them that:
- It’s never too early to plan; life is unpredictable, and preparation is empowering.
- Professional will writing is affordable and straightforward.
- Even simple wills can protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected.
At Coastal Legacy, we make the process easy and affordable, without complicated legal jargon.
4. Talk About What Matters Most
Writing a will isn’t just about dividing assets; it’s about understanding what’s important to both of you.
You might discuss:
- Who should act as executors
- What happens to shared property
- Guardianship for children or pets
- Any charitable donations or personal gifts
These conversations can even bring you closer together, as you clarify shared values and priorities.
5. Consider Mirror Wills
Many couples choose mirror wills, two documents that reflect each other, leaving everything to the surviving partner and then to children or chosen beneficiaries.
They’re straightforward, cost-effective, and ideal for most couples.
If your circumstances are more complex, Coastal Legacy can help you explore tailored options such as trusts or conditional gifts.
6. Keep It an Ongoing Conversation
Once your wills are written, revisit them every few years or whenever life changes; marriage, children, new property, or other milestones.
Regular reviews ensure your wills always reflect your current wishes.
A Conversation Worth Having
Talking about wills isn’t morbid; it’s thoughtful, mature, and deeply loving. It ensures your partner is protected, your shared plans are secure, and your family’s future is cared for.
At Coastal Legacy, we make this process comfortable and straightforward, helping couples create wills that reflect their lives and values.
👉 Contact Coastal Legacy today to start the conversation with expert, friendly support.