### Financial Planning for Engagement and Future Expenses

Boiling for Soup wisely balances retirement savings with planning for future wedding expenses.

### Balancing Financial Goals with Love: A Young Adult's Journey
* 💍 At 23 years old, Boiling for Soup is already on step six of the financial order of operations, contributing an **impressive 177% of his income** to retirement savings.
* 💖 He plans to propose and marry within five years, while also considering future expenses like a house, leading him to **save 10% of his post-tax income** for a wedding and engagement ring.
* 🛠 The discussion emphasizes that **money is merely a tool** to help achieve personal goals, including those related to **love and relationships**.
* 📈 While it's important to focus on **long-term financial independence**, it’s also valid to allocate funds towards **short-term goals** like an engagement ring, even if it means **temporarily lowering his savings rate**.
* 💡 The advice suggests being prudent about spending on an engagement ring, warning against the traditional guideline of **spending two months' salary**, which can lead to **excessive financial pressure**.
* 💬 Engaging in open communication about preferences and budgets with a partner can turn the process of selecting a ring into a **fun and collaborative activity**.
* ⏳ Ultimately, Boiling for Soup should balance his savings efforts while ensuring that he makes **wise financial decisions that align with his values and future plans**.
* 💎 The goal is to choose a ring that reflects both **love and financial sensibility**, ensuring it serves well for the **first 25 to 30 years of marriage**.

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Question about saving for marriage while prioritizing retirement

A 23-year-old is on step six of the financial order of operations, contributing 177% of income to retirement.

He plans to propose in 5 years and is saving 10% of post-tax income for wedding expenses.

The question is whether saving for a wedding alongside significant retirement contributions is acceptable.

Money is a tool to achieve goals; if marriage is a goal, prioritizing savings for it is acceptable.

It's okay to prioritize short-term goals like marriage before long-term goals like prepaid future expenses (step eight).

Analysis of the individual's financial situation and advice

Being at step six at age 23 indicates a strong financial foundation (fully funded emergency fund, employer match, maxed-out Roth IRA/HSA).

Advice to strike a balance between continued saving and allocating funds for near-term goals.

The goal is to return to a high savings rate after achieving short-term goals.

Avoid excessive spending on engagement rings; don't follow the 'two months' salary guideline.

Make saving for the ring a fun activity, involving communication and planning with the partner.

Personal experience about buying an engagement ring and adjusting the plan over the course of a marriage.

Reflecting on the long-term success of a ring purchase strategy.

Recommendation to choose a ring that will serve well for the first 25-30 years of marriage.