<prompt> Human: My GF and I have been in a relationship for years and the time is quickly approaching for me to make the BIG decision. We both have good jobs and make good money but neither of us come from a family with much money at all and due to student debt, have not been able to save more than a small emergency fund this probably wont change for at least a few more years.Weddings to me are a black hole from a financial standpoint. I work with money for a living but dont know anything in this area, how much does the average couple save before a guy pops the question for a wedding? Anyone else have a similar situation or any couples that may have some hindsight advice on how much moneyincome one should have or rules of thumb would be greatly appreciated!EDIT: Thanks for all the replies, tons of great advice here. To clarify a few things: I do know shes the one thats not an issue at all, the financial problem is only an issue because I want to deliver on the wedding of her dreams or at least do as much as I can to get close, regardless of the fact that she wouldnt care if I couldnt in the end.I think theres a lot to be said for the long engagement and alternative ideas to a 30k wedding cause that is just not happening. Anyways thanks for the input since as the youngest in my family I have largely been left in the dark about how this shit is paid for when I attend other weddings.  <response>: Imo average is irrelevant. The average American sucks at saving. Either wait and save up for a traditional wedding or just get married without the huge party. 