Let’s be real, you’ve been secretly (or not-so-secretly) curating your dream wedding Pinterest board since, oh, forever. You know exactly which rustic barn venue has the best golden hour lighting, and you can name more ring cuts than your jeweler. And yet, every time Aunt Karen asks, “When is he going to pop the question?” you suddenly forget how to form words.
If you’re caught between screaming “YES, I WANT TO BE ENGAGED!” and “Wait, do I even like sharing closet space?”, then this list is for you. Let’s break down the signs you’re ready to say yes, and the ones that say girl, take a breath.
9 Signs You’re Ready for Engagement
1. You Can Talk About Money Without Someone Crying
If you and your partner can discuss rent, student loans, and whether DoorDash is a necessity or a luxury without it turning into a full-blown existential crisis, that’s a big green flag.
2. You’re Comfortable Being Unfiltered Around Each Other
Have they seen you ugly cry during a sad dog commercial? Have you seen them eat a burrito with absolutely zero grace? If yes, you’re on the right track.
3. You’ve Survived an IKEA Trip Together
Because if you can navigate the Maze of Doom without threatening to throw a MALM dresser at each other, marriage might just be a breeze.
4. You Don’t Feel Pressure to “Lock It Down” Just Because Everyone Else Is
Your best friend just got engaged, and your cousin is planning a 200-person wedding, but you’re saying yes because you want to, not because of FOMO or family pressure.
5. The Thought of Forever Doesn’t Make You Hyperventilate
Sure, forever is a long time. But if you picture them next to you at 80, arguing about how to use the TV remote, and it still makes you smile? That’s a solid sign.
6. You Can Handle Their Weird Quirks (and They Can Handle Yours)
They snore like a chainsaw. You can’t sleep without a fan. If you’ve figured out a way to make it work without committing crimes, congrats!
7. You’re Not in It Just for the Wedding Photos
You want the marriage, not just the aesthetically pleasing engagement shoot featuring perfectly tousled hair and matching neutral outfits in a wheat field.
8. You’ve Talked About the Big Stuff
Kids? Religion? Who gets the last slice of pizza? If you can have these convos openly, you’re ahead of the game.
9. Your Gut Says YES!
Sometimes, it’s just that simple. If your gut feeling is a resounding “HECK YES,” that’s a great sign.
3 Signs You’re Not Ready (Yet!)
1. The Idea of Forever Makes You Want to Flee to Another Country
If the thought of commitment makes you consider joining an off-grid commune, take a minute. Engagement can wait.
2. You Haven’t Fought Yet (Like, Ever)
If your relationship is all butterflies and rainbows and you’ve never disagreed on anything, you might still be in the honeymoon phase. A few healthy arguments build resilience.
3. You’re More Excited About the Ring Than the Relationship
If you’re dreaming more about the sparkle on your finger than the person giving it to you, maybe hit pause. Rings are great, but love is better.
Final Thoughts (And a Totally Chill, Non-Pushy CTA)
Getting engaged is a huge step, but it should be exciting, not anxiety-inducing (well, at least not in a bad way). Whether you’re ready to say “yes” or still figuring it out, take your time. And hey, drop your wildest engagement stories (or proposal fails!) in the comments, we need the tea.