The first time you marry for love, the second for money, and the third for companionship.

Jackie Kennedy's quote, "The first time you marry for love, the second for money, and the third for companionship," humorously captures the evolving reasons behind marriage over the course of a lifetime. She suggests that the motivations for marriage can change with age, experience, and personal circumstances. In her view, the first marriage is often driven by romantic love, the idealistic emotion that leads people to believe in the concept of "forever." However, as life progresses, practical concerns such as financial stability might take precedence, making money a more central factor in the second marriage.

The third marriage, according to Kennedy, centers around companionship, implying that as people grow older, the need for emotional support and partnership becomes more important than the earlier desires for love or financial security. This reflects a shift toward valuing mutual respect, shared experiences, and emotional connection over the excitement or material benefits that might have characterized earlier relationships. The quote speaks to the idea that as we age, the complexity of marriage and relationships deepens, and the reasons for seeking a partner become more nuanced.

The origin of the quote lies in Jackie Kennedy’s own experiences with marriage. She married John F. Kennedy for love, a passionate and public relationship that ended in tragedy. After his assassination, she remarried Aristotle Onassis, a wealthy shipping magnate, highlighting the shift toward financial security after her first marriage. Her third marriage, to Edwin Schlossberg, was based more on companionship and emotional support, echoing the wisdom behind her statement.

Ultimately, Kennedy’s quote offers a candid reflection on the evolving nature of love and marriage, acknowledging that different stages of life may bring different priorities and needs. It highlights the idea that while romantic love may be the initial spark, the sustainability of a relationship often depends on practicality and companionship as time goes on.