Engagement Rings, Wedding Costs, and Prenups: What Every Couple Should Consider

Published on: 18 Mar 2025

Getting engaged is one of the most exciting moments in a couple’s life. The engagement ring, the wedding planning, and the financial future of a marriage are all deeply connected. However, with the rising costs of weddings and the long-term financial implications of marriage, many couples are beginning to ask themselves:

• How much should we spend on an engagement ring?
• Is our wedding budget realistic, and how will we pay for it?
• Should we get a prenuptial agreement to protect our financial future?

While engagement rings and weddings are often viewed through a romantic lens, they are also financial commitments that can shape a couple’s future. This article explores how to approach these significant expenses wisely and why a prenup should be part of the conversation before walking down the aisle.

1. The Cost of Engagement Rings: How Much Should You Spend?

For decades, there has been a popular belief that an engagement ring should cost two to three months’ salary. However, as modern couples become more financially conscious, many are questioning this outdated rule.

1.1. Average Engagement Ring Cost

The average cost of an engagement ring in 2025 is around $6,000-$7,000, but prices can vary significantly based on:

• Size and quality of the diamond or gemstone
• Type of metal (gold, platinum, white gold, etc.)
• Brand and jeweler
• Custom designs or rare stones

Some couples opt for more affordable rings under $2,000, while others spend $10,000 or more for luxury designs.

1.2. Should You Finance an Engagement Ring?

Many couples wonder whether they should finance an engagement ring or pay in full. Here’s what to consider:

✅ Paying in Full – Avoids debt, high interest rates, and financial stress.
❌ Financing the Ring – May make sense if you can secure a 0% interest plan but could lead to unnecessary debt.

If financing a ring will add financial strain before marriage, it may be worth considering a more affordable option.

1.3. Engagement Rings and Prenups

An engagement ring is usually considered a gift given in contemplation of marriage. In many cases, the recipient keeps the ring after the wedding, even if the marriage later ends.

However, laws vary by state, and some courts have ruled that an engagement ring must be returned if the wedding never happens. A prenup can clarify who keeps the ring in different scenarios, preventing potential disputes.

2. Wedding Costs: How to Budget Wisely

Planning a wedding can be one of the most expensive events of a couple’s life. With average wedding costs in 2025 ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, it’s essential to have an open discussion about:

• How much you’re comfortable spending
• Who is contributing financially
• Whether you’ll take on debt for the wedding

2.1. Setting a Realistic Wedding Budget

A good wedding budget includes:

• Venue and catering – The biggest expenses, often making up 40-50% of the budget.
• Photography and videography – $3,000-$6,000, depending on location and quality.
• Wedding attire – The dress, tuxedo, and accessories can cost $2,000-$5,000 or more.
• Entertainment – DJ or live band, often ranging from $1,000-$5,000.
• Decor and floral arrangements – Costs vary based on size and style.
• Miscellaneous fees – Marriage license, invitations, favors, and transportation.

One of the biggest mistakes couples make is underestimating hidden costs, like taxes, tips, and last-minute vendor changes.

2.2. Wedding Debt: Is It Worth It?

Some couples finance their wedding using personal loans or credit cards, but this can create financial stress early in the marriage.

If financing the wedding means starting your marriage in debt, it may be worth reconsidering certain expenses or adjusting the budget.

✅ Consider cost-cutting strategies like:

• Booking an off-season wedding date.
• Limiting the guest list to reduce catering and venue costs.
• Choosing digital invitations instead of paper ones.

A wedding is a celebration of love, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of financial stability.

3. Prenuptial Agreements: Why They Matter More Than Ever

With significant financial decisions already in play—the engagement ring, wedding expenses, and future financial planning—many couples are choosing to sign a prenup before getting married.

A prenuptial agreement is a legal contract that outlines how financial matters will be handled in marriage and in case of divorce.

3.1. What a Prenup Can Protect

A prenup can help couples:

• Clarify ownership of pre-marital assets, such as savings, real estate, or businesses.
• Determine responsibility for debts, ensuring one spouse isn’t liable for the other’s loans.
• Define spousal support (alimony) expectations, reducing legal battles.
• Establish how marital property will be divided in case of separation.

A prenup provides financial transparency before marriage, helping both partners feel secure and informed about their financial future.

3.2. Engagement Rings, Wedding Gifts, and Prenups

Many couples also use a prenup to specify who keeps certain valuable items if the marriage ends, including:

• Engagement rings and wedding jewelry
• Wedding gifts from family members
• Real estate or major financial contributions made by one partner’s family

A prenup can eliminate confusion and prevent legal disputes down the road.

4. How prenups.ai Makes the Process Easy

Creating a prenuptial agreement used to mean hiring expensive attorneys, but now prenups.ai makes it simple and affordable.

Why Use prenups.ai?

• Easy & Affordable – Avoid costly legal fees with a streamlined process.
• Legally Sound – Ensure compliance with state laws.
• Customizable – Tailor your prenup to your unique financial situation.
• Transparent – Clear guidance on what you and your partner are agreeing to.

With prenups.ai, couples can confidently enter marriage knowing their finances are secure.

5. Final Thoughts

As you prepare for marriage, engagement rings, wedding costs, and prenups should all be part of the conversation.

Before tying the knot, consider:

• How much you’re comfortable spending on an engagement ring and wedding.
• Whether financing wedding expenses is a good decision for your financial future.
• How a prenuptial agreement can protect both partners and establish financial clarity.

Marriage is about love and commitment, but financial security plays a crucial role in a lasting relationship.

Start your prenuptial agreement today with prenups.ai and enter marriage with confidence.