> >Otherwise we'd probably have tied the knot already.
> > > >
> > > > ~Mina
>
> I think I gave the wrong impression with that last comment. Darien and are are perfectly happy waiting to get married until we can afford everything that we want.
>
> > > Rings are significant part of your wedding day, but after all they ARE just a symbolic gesture of your new life together. I think -- if you'll be anything like me and want to wear your rings all the time after the wedding -- then you might as well marry symbol to practical substance.
>
> As for symbolism- Darien fell in love with a certain design on a wedding ring the first time he saw it, and it's important to me that we get them because so much of the wedding is going to end up being what *I* always wanted. They're absolutely beautiful, matching rings, with several different colors of gold on them, and already I couldn't imagine us getting anything else. And so that in itself holds a bit of symbolism for us, I think.
>
> > > Of course, this type of approach may not work for you; and if you find my presumption insulting, then I apologize. Just wanted to suggest that money need never be the main object holding anyone back from tying the knot with the one they love.
>
> Don't worry, I'm not insulted. :-} I don't look at it as money holding us back- we just have to hold off for a while until we can make this very important day (and the week or two after it) exactly how we want it. And that's *definitely* worth waiting for.
>
>
> > I borrowed ten bucks from my best man to pay the preacher. Money shouldn't be a problem.
> > Howard
>
> ~Mina "Preachers cost a lot more these days, I'm afraid" moon

First of all, Howard, I laughed so hard over your post. I really should remember to search for messages by 'Howard' the next time I'm in a bad mood.

As for ring expenses, I've had several people think that my engagement ring cost about $2,000. I tend to keep my lips shut and just smile, but it actually cost a lot less. It came as a set, and both bands have itty-bitty diamonds in them. The engagement ring also has a 1/3 carat diamond in it. However, Sean got the set at about 50% off because the store was closing. Both rings were well under what people think he paid.

I know some women have big flashy rings that cost a whole bunch of money, but I wouldn't trade with them. As Wolf said, the rings are a symbol. When people see a ring on my finger, they know what it means. That ring could cost $40 or $4,000, but it still means that I'm committed to one person, and only one person, and I want the whole world to know it.

Ell"Look at my sparkly ring, everyone!myruh