Family
Private Wealth

Annabel Andreou
September 2025

Taylor Swift’s engagement has captured headlines around the world. As one of the world’s most successful artists, with a fortune estimated in the billions, it is almost certain that her lawyers will already be advising her on a prenuptial agreement before her marriage to Travis Kelce. But pre-nups are not just for celebrities or the ultra-wealthy. Increasingly, couples in England and Wales are considering a pre-nup before marriage to provide clarity, fairness, and peace of mind when planning their future together.

What is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement (often called a “pre-nup”) is a legal contract entered into before a marriage or civil partnership which sets out how assets will be dealt with if the relationship ends.

In England and Wales, pre-nups are not automatically binding. However, since the Supreme Court decision in Radmacher v Granatino [2010], the courts will usually uphold them provided:

  • Both parties entered into the agreement freely.
  • There was full financial disclosure.
  • Each party had independent legal advice.
  • The agreement is fair and does not leave one party in financial hardship.

When those safeguards are met, a pre-nup can be highly persuasive in financial proceedings.

Why Couples Choose a Pre-nup

Whether you’re planning a star-studded wedding like Taylor Swift or a smaller ceremony a Pre-nup can serve several important purposes:

  • Protecting pre-acquired assets – for example, a house one partner already owns and/or business interests.
  • Safeguarding family wealth – such as gifts from parents, inheritances, or stakes in a family business.
  • Providing for children from a previous relationship – ensuring assets are preserved for their future and protecting children’s financial security.
  • Clarity and certainty – reducing conflict, legal costs, and uncertainty if separation occurs.

Far from being unromantic, a pre-nup is not about mistrust. Pre-nups are about planning for marriage responsibly, just as you would plan the wedding day itself. Recognising that marriage has legal and financial consequences empowers you to enter into it with open eyes.

Common Misconceptions About Pre-nups

  • “Pre-nups are only for celebrities like Taylor Swift and the rich.”
    In reality, anyone with property, savings, or family wealth may benefit.
  • “Signing a pre-nup means you expect divorce.”
    In truth, pre-nups are about planning for marriage responsibly, much like making a will is about planning for the future.
  • “Courts ignore them anyway.”
    Properly drafted pre-nups now carry significant weight with judges.

Lessons from Taylor Swift’s Engagement

Taylor Swift’s circumstances are at one end of the extreme: her assets include intellectual property rights, royalties, brand value, and ongoing income from her tours and music empire. But the principle is the same for all couples.

A pre-nup offers protection, transparency, and reassurance. Taylor Swift’s engagement is a timely reminder that love and financial planning can – and should – go hand in hand. Whether you are a 14 Grammy award-winning artist or simply planning your wedding day, it makes sense to protect your future.

Practical Points to Keep in Mind

  • Start early. Timing matters, so a pre-nup should be signed well before the wedding (ideally at least 28 days), so neither party feels rushed or under pressure.
  • Be transparent. Both partners must be open about their financial circumstances, so full disclosure is key.
  • Get independent legal advice. Each party should have their own solicitor.
  • Review Clauses. Circumstances can change; agreements can provide for review after children are born or after a certain number of years.

Our Advice

If you are engaged, entering into a marriage or civil partnership, it is worth considering whether a prenuptial agreement is right for you. These agreements can prevent uncertainty and protect both partners’ interests allowing you to plan a wedding with confidence and adhering to ‘we are never ever getting… disputes over finances’.

At Lawrence Stephens, we specialise in advising on prenuptial agreements and tailoring them to reflect your circumstances. If you would like to discuss your options, please contact our Family Law team today.