Embracing Life and Finding Happiness
Kelley Hughes • August 9, 2024

Hello, everyone! As a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) and financial advisor, I spend a lot of time helping women navigate the financial complexities of divorce. But today, I want to step away from the professional side and give you a glimpse into who I am, what brings me joy, and a little about my background.

I love going to a live music show. Music has always been a huge part of my life, but there's something incredible about the energy of a live concert-the collective excitement of the crowd and the sheer joy of experiencing your favorite songs performed live and sharing the experience with friends. For 18 years, I was married to someone who only wanted to go to one band's concerts. While I appreciated that passion, I longed for the variety and excitement of exploring different musical genres and bands.

After my divorce, I promised myself that I'd embrace the things that truly make me happy. One of those things is going to concerts. I'm fortunate to have met and married someone who shares my love for live music. We now have season passes to the PNC Music Pavilion, and our summers are filled with live performances. There's nothing like tailgating before a show surrounded by the atmosphere of a concert with friends and family.

Another passion of mine is sports, particularly University of Virginia basketball. Growing up, sports weren't a big part of my life, but that passion has grown in recent years as I found a friend group of UVA Alumni here in Charlotte. There's a unique camaraderie and sense of community that comes with being a sports fan. Whether it's cheering along with other alumni at a Watch Party or watching the game at home with friends and family, sports have a way of bringing people together.

My journey hasn't always been easy. Going through a difficult divorce was one of the toughest experiences of my life. But it was also a turning point-a chance for me to rediscover myself and manifest the life I always wanted. It's a life where I prioritize what makes me happy, surround myself with people who uplift me, and embrace new experiences with open arms.

I never saw myself getting married again, but meeting my husband was a game-changer. He loves the same things I do, and together, we've built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and love. We're always looking for the next concert to attend, the next sporting event to cheer at, or the next local brewery to visit. Our life together feels authentic, built on friendship and partnership that only develops from true compatibility. I wouldn't have it any other way.

One of the reasons I'm passionate about my work is because I want to empower women to take control of their lives and their happiness. Divorce can be incredibly challenging but can also be an opportunity for growth and transformation. I want every woman to know that it's possible to find joy and fulfillment on the other side of divorce.

If you're going through a tough time, remember to prioritize what makes you happy. Surround yourself with people who support and inspire you. Try that new hobby you've always wanted to, spend time with loved ones, and take a moment to enjoy the little things that bring you joy.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me a little better. I hope my story inspires you to embrace your passions, follow your happiness, and create the life you've always dreamed of. Remember, you have the power to manifest your happiness and to live a life that feels truly authentic to you.

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Want More Clarity in Your Attorney Meetings?

By Kelley Hughes • October 17, 2025
Meeting with your divorce attorney can feel overwhelming. You're asked for details about your finances, assets, and future needs - often at a time when emotions are running high. Without preparation, it's easy to feel lost or to leave important things unsaid.

5 Financial Mistakes Women Make After Divorce

By Kelley Hughes • October 10, 2025
Divorce may be over, but the financial decisions you make afterward are just as important. Many women underestimate how much their money habits, expenses, and future planning change once the papers are signed.

Divorce Financial Checklist: What to Do in the First 90 Days

By Kelley Hughes • October 3, 2025
The first 90 days after divorce can feel like a blur. Between legal documents, living arrangements, and adjusting to your "new normal," it's easy to let financial details slip through the cracks. But these early steps matter - they lay the foundation for your long-term security.

Should You Keep or Sell the Home After Divorce?

By Kelley Hughes • September 26, 2025
For many women, deciding whether to keep or sell the marital home after divorce is one of the most emotional - and financially complicated - choices they face. A house can feel like stability, but it also comes with big financial responsibilities.

Divorce Trends 2025: What Women Need to Know

By Kelley Hughes • September 19, 2025
Divorce isn't just a separation - it's often a financial reset, a moment of clarity, and sometimes the start of an entirely new chapter. As we step into 2025, the landscape of divorce in the U.S. is shifting in ways that directly impact women's lives, finances, and futures.

Divorce & Kids: 3 Hidden Expenses

By Kelley Hughes • September 12, 2025
Divorce changes a lot, but one truth never changes: kids are expensive. For moms, navigating shared expenses with an ex-spouse can feel like a second full-time job. Even with child support in place, the "extras" pile up-sports fees, orthodontics, summer camps, and those last-minute school supply runs that always seem to happen when your budget is already stretched.

I never thought I'd say this, but....

By Kelley Hughes • September 6, 2025
Yesterday, I was on the phone with my Ex discussing the kids and making some decisions together. He said that "parenting adult children is really hard," and I answered that I preferred it way more than parenting toddlers. He then made the comment that he can't seem to get away from the young ones--that his girlfriend has a 7-year old, but she was on the long-term plan. I asked him if he was going to get married again (he's going through a second divorce), and he said "not for awhile." That's when I said it. I said, "You know, if you want to do some financial planning to protect our kids' legacies, then okay." He agreed that might be a good idea. Ya'll--this was a HUGE moment. It marks the occasion where we've healed and recovered enough from our divorce to be able to talk on the phone without me hanging up on verbal abuse. It marks the occasion where he's comfortable even CONTEMPLATING discussing his finances with me. And it marks the occasion where we've been able to discuss something future-oriented again because we have kids together. Once again, we share a common goal. It's been a really long time.

Life After Divorce: How to Strengthen Your Retirement

By Kelley Hughes • July 23, 2025
Divorce can shift everything-your day-to-day life, your relationships, and your financial future. As overwhelming as it may feel, this new life chapter is also an opportunity to build strength, clarity, and control. When it comes to retirement, the steps you take now will help protect your independence for years to come.

How Divorce Affects Social Security Benefits for Women

By Kelley Hughes • July 16, 2025
When navigating the financial challenges of divorce, many women overlook one critical piece of the puzzle: Social Security benefits. Understanding how divorce impacts your benefits can help you make smarter decisions now - and better prepare for your financial future.

Before You Hire An Attorney....

By Kelley Hughes • July 9, 2025
Last week, I met with a woman in her early 50s who was preparing to separate from her husband. They share three children-two are grown and out on their own, and their youngest still has two years of high school to go. Like many women I work with, her biggest concern was understanding the financial side of the divorce. She's been a stay-at-home mom for nearly 20 years, having left a promising career to raise her family. Now, she finds herself financially dependent on her husband-and completely in the dark about their finances.