On the other hand, I think a lot of this spending serves some concrete purpose, like a dowry-effect. It shows what the bride is worth, basically, and that the groom isn't a pauper.

I think this is why my husband resisted my "let's just have a chili cookout in the backyard" idea. I sometimes appear so poor that it attracts men who think I'm unloved and being neglected. 

 I’ve had men tell me that they felt like the engagement ring is more of a signal to other men. I’ve seen engagement rings I wouldn’t wear swimming cause you’d just sink right to the bottom. 

 😂

Yeah. I originally said I didn't need one and he was like nope, you're getting one.
And it did have a tangible, immediate effect on other men. 

 I didn't even realize how many men were interested until I had the ring on and they were like, Darn, too slow.
Fr, bro? 😄🤷‍♀️
But my husband realized it.

I don't pick up on a lot of stuff.