When to take the next step?

Hi. i used to have the same nick name as yours 'devilyangel'. haha. Ok, answering your questions, i don't think a couple really need to line up all the finances and to throw a big wedding before they tying the knot. I don't really think money should become a problem, but at least both of them should be financially capable to provide a living for themselves. I did went to college and university, and now I'm further my master degree, i work part time in the university. I don't earn much from my part time, but i can live with the earning. I'm still single, i just dump my boyfriend because i didn't feel the chemistry between us, and I still have debt from loan study. What i want to say is, if i find someone i love in this near future, and he is a good candidate to become a good husband, i don't think I'll hold on the marriage just because of financial problem (but not for baby, baby need extra financial :)). I'm still able to afford my living, and he should too. Marriage is not a simple matter, but it is also not really that huge. It is a declaration that made officially to other people that you and the one you love are partner for life. Just my opinion.. have a nice day =)

First of all don't feel the pressure. I'm with my boyfriend four years right now but I know I want to gain financial independence first and then start thinking about wedding and such. I guess getting engaged for me it's more about right circumstances and not about time... Of course getting married after a few months of relationship is to fast for me but I;m sure people in their thirtees or older look at it differently. I share your opinion, devilyangel728. I want to be certain (or at least have strong bases to think) that me and my boyfriend will be able to live ourselves, before getting married.

I am with my boyfriend for more than three years and we are waiting for maybe two more years to tell our parents that we can be together for longer. My parents are however totally against our relationship so I also need time to solve this problem and the more time I take is better for me right now. I also have friends who are the same age as me with already two or three kids but I prefer to do not follow then and thus doing what I want to.

Well, finance issue is very important because it involves a lot of monetary for a household. It's not good to fight or argue over such matters later. Dating for relatively longer is good in the sense that you'll know your partner much better be it his lifestyle, hobbies, preference etc so that you two can live harmony under one roof. Anyway, never compare yours with others because relationship is very subjective and you should discuss with your partner.

You can take your relationship to the next level, as soon as you feel comfortable doing so. For some people, they feel more comfortable if their finances are already in order and have a career. Others take the plunge immediately. When you do decide to get married. You should be committed to your partner 100%, warts and all. Remember, ONLY ONLY get married if you feel that your life is so much better, richer and happier with your partner in it.