Being given an engagement ring signifies the beginning of a new life with your boo. Traditionally, the guy pays for the ring, but hey, we live in a modern world…so, it’s no surprise that more and more couples are skipping tradition in favor of what makes them most comfortable.For young women?That often means paying for their own engagement ring. Here’s why:
Stephanie, 25:My fiancé is a grad school student and is currently not earning any income. We knew we wanted to get engaged after five years of dating, but he didn’t have the means to get me the ring. I paid for the entire ring with part of my last bonus, and I couldn’t be happier with this decision. I was able to demonstrate my commitment to our relationship, and he was able to fulfill his desire to propose. Win-win!
Kate, 28:I paid for all of it. I proposed to my husband with a watch, but I wanted a ring to wear as well. I know my style much better than he does and found one I loved on Etsy. We hadn't combined finances, so I definitely felt like I could spend whatever I wanted without feeling guilty.
Elizabeth, 30:My husband asked me to marry him over dinner one night, with the intention of going ring shopping with me the next day. At the time, he had just made the down payment on a house,which had emptied his savings. I, on the other hand, had just received a large raise and had plenty of wiggle room in my budget, so I offered to buy the ring. He wanted to contribute, but I told him to pay for my wedding band instead, since that could be purchased later.
While “finances” is often the reason that women are stepping up to pay for their own rings, you can’t discount the feeling of independence. If for whatever reason, the marriage doesn’t happen, you don’t have to deal with that awkward “What happens to the ring?Do I give it back?”conversation. There is value in being your own woman and buying your own ring... just make sure your partner is cool with it too.
Source:Refinery29