Becoming a parent changes your life and your finances! In this kickoff to our Parenting & Finances series, Certified Financial Planners Lauryn Williams and Chloe Moore walk through what to do before a child arrives so you can reduce stress, avoid costly surprises, and create a setup that actually supports your family. From “baby funds” and registries to leave policies, insurance, and estate planning, this episode is a practical checklist you can work through whether you’re already expecting or just starting to plan.

Lauryn also shares real-life lessons from welcoming her daughter, Arya—like why a flexible baby fund matters, how to think about one-time vs. recurring costs (hello, night nurse), and why “the village” is a financial strategy, not just a saying. Chloe adds advisor tips on employer benefits, 529s (and when not to start them), housing and car upgrades to avoid, and how relationship status changes the budget. If you want to feel more prepared—even if you’ll never be 100% ready—this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

• The “baby fund” every parent needs—and what hidden costs it should actually cover.

• Why you might want to hold off on the new house or SUV (and what to prioritize instead).

• The overlooked employer benefits that can save you thousands before and after baby arrives.

• What to know about maternity, paternity, and unpaid leave—and how to plan your timing.

• The truth about life insurance and estate planning that too many new parents ignore.

• How to be strategic with registries, showers, and gifts to stretch your budget further.

• Why your relationship and support system are just as important to your finances as your income.

Links & Resources Mentioned

• FAQ: The One Big Beautiful Bill, Explained

• Fair Play by Eve Rodsky

• Episode 116: Estate Planning with Guest Shalini Codispoti

• Episode 118: What You Need to Know About Life Insurance

Money Quotes

“Don’t handicap your children by making their lives easy.” — Robert A. Heinlein

“The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.” — Maria Montessori

Ready to take control of your financial future? 

Join Lauryn Williams at the Welcome to Wealth Retreat in Medellin, Colombia! Build a personalized financial plan while experiencing an incredible new culture. Click here to reserve your spot today!

About Lauryn Williams

Lauryn Williams is a Certified Financial Planner, Olympian, and financial educator passionate about helping people take control of their finances. Lauryn also hosts the Welcome to Wealth Retreats, designed to help individuals create actionable financial plans while traveling and experiencing new cultures. Learn more about her speaking services and retreats [here].

Follow Us on Social Media

• Follow Chloe on Instagram: @financialstaples

• Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chloemoore

• Follow Lauryn on Instagram: @worthwinning

• Connect with Lauryn on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauryn-williams

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