5 Things That are Way Cooler than Having an Expensive Engagement Ring

When did it become acceptable for a lady to expect her poor, hardworking fellow to foot the bill for a $10,000.00 engagement ring? Ladies... a big rock on your finger does not necessarily mean love, closeness, fidelity, or any of those things you expect to give and receive in your married life.

 

Below, a ton of way-cooler ideas for making use of that $9,600.00 for your partnered life together. 

 

 An incredible honeymoon! 

 Unless you already had kids before marrying each other (that's what we did!), your honeymoon will be the last hurrah before the pressing responsibilities of married life kick in. So, make it a good one if that's what you want to do. Now is your chance to book that Island Getaway, toast to the good life in Venice, explore Dover Cliffs, or hike the Grand Canyon.

A down payment on a house. 

He kicks in 10 Gs, you kick in another 8, and you've got a good chunk to put toward your future home together. Even if your parents are well-off and generous, it feels so much better to invest your own money into the home where you will make a life with your partner and maybe even raise a family. So forgo that pricey ring, and feel really good about the promise of a great life to come!

A new car. 

Are you in the family way? Perhaps a mom-van is in the cards for you. Or, maybe your worn-out wheels are due for a replacement. Having something sparkly on your hand to glance down at during your busy day isn't the worst thing. But a shiny new (and reliable) vehicle is the far more practical option.

A fat bank account. 

An extravagant wedding might make you giddy, and a big old diamond might make you feel cherished. But those feelings quickly fade when life throws you a curve ball and you have to cough up some quick cash for a life emergency, but there's no fundage to be had. Money in the bank means sleeping better at night, and even better, with the right financial advisor on your side, that nest egg will grow and grow!

Did you go with a frugal engagement ring? What did you do with the money you saved?