Engagement Ring Not Necessary

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

My girlfriend and I are planning to get married next year. She really wants an engagement ring, but the one she wants is very expensive and I cannot afford it. Is it really necessary to have an engagement ring? If it's not necessary, then what can I say to convince her that it's a waste of money?

Signed,

Empty pockets

Dear Empty pockets,

No, it is not necessary to have an engagement ring. However, a compromise is to buy a much less expensive engagement ring, and save money for a down payment on a home, or other item that is important to both of you.

You and your girlfriend need to have a nice, long talk about this issue. You need to explain to her your financial situation. You both need to be open and honest about finances and how you each feel about spending and budgeting. If you don't come to an understanding about financial matters now, it will be a source of conflict in your relationship after you marry.