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Money Management Side Business Couple Story

How Santa Benga and Matt Brown Manage Money While Building a Side Business

Santa Benga and Matt Brown are a UK-based couple preparing for marriage while managing their finances smartly. Alongside their full-time jobs, they run a part-time direct selling business with Oriflame. Their journey shows how discipline, teamwork, and financial awareness can transform money habits.

Meet the Couple

Santa, 39, works in business development, while Matt, 46, is a careers advisor. They live in Plymouth with their dog, Max. The couple met during a business trip in Rome in April 2023 and quickly became inseparable.

From Debt to Financial Stability

Before meeting, both struggled with debt and overspending. Saving money was difficult, and whatever they saved was quickly spent.

Since becoming a couple, they have changed their mindset. They now focus on:

Money management side business couple Santa and Matt smiling together while building financial stability
  • Saving before making purchases

  • Avoiding impulsive spending

  • Paying for items in full instead of using credit

These habits have helped them clear their debts and reduce financial stress.

How They Manage Money as a Couple

Santa and Matt believe trust is key in managing finances. They openly discuss money and understand each other’s financial situation.

They have also set a spending rule. Any purchase above ÂŁ80 must be discussed first. This helps them stay accountable and avoid unnecessary expenses.

The couple like the flexibility of renting and the option to move more regularly (Photo: Santa Benga)

Income and Side Business Growth

The couple earns a combined monthly income of around ÂŁ4,700 from their main jobs. In addition, they run a direct selling business with Oriflame.

Their side business brings in between ÂŁ300 and ÂŁ600 per month. Their long-term goal is to earn ÂŁ100,000 annually from this business within the next two years.

Saving for Their Wedding

Their extra income is being saved for their wedding. The couple plans a small ceremony with around 35 guests in Preston.

Initially, they estimated a budget of ÂŁ3,000. However, they quickly realized that wedding costs can rise unexpectedly.

Renting vs Buying Property

Santa and Matt currently rent a four-bedroom semi-detached house for ÂŁ1,300 per month. They prefer renting over buying a home.

Their reasons include:

  • Avoiding maintenance costs

     

  • No need for building insurance

     

  • Greater flexibility to move

     

They believe renting allows them to invest money elsewhere instead of tying it up in property.

Investment Strategy

The couple invests regularly instead of holding large cash savings. They contribute ÂŁ100 per month into investments through Trading212.

Currently, their savings are low due to wedding expenses. However, they prioritize long-term financial growth through investing.

Pension and Future Planning

Santa does not currently contribute to a pension. Matt, on the other hand, receives income from his Royal Navy pension after 27 years of service. He also adds ÂŁ90 per month to his workplace pension.

Despite this, they do not rely solely on pensions for their future. They believe in creating multiple income streams.

Financial Mindset and Motivation

Santa and Matt see money as something that flows. They believe challenges can be solved with the right approach.

Their biggest motivation is helping others. This value is deeply connected to their faith and personal beliefs.

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