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3471These days, engagement rings often come with big price tags and even bigger expectations. But one person took a different route and caught the internet’s attention doing it.
A Reddit user shared a story that got a lot of attention on r/povertyfinance.
The post was simple: “I paid for my fiancé’s engagement ring by selling homemade pretzels.”
And no, they weren’t embarrassed about it. In fact, they owned it proudly: “I am not ashamed lol.”
A Pretzel-Fueled Proposal
The original post connected with tens of thousands of people. It wasn’t just about pretzels; it was about doing what you can with what you have.
The user explained that they built the side hustle from scratch. It started when coworkers suggested selling the pretzels they brought to lunch.
From there, they made a Facebook page, posted in local yard sale groups, and things took off.
They sold at farmers markets, thrift shops, and even met up with buyers in public spaces.
“Too many!” they said when asked how many pretzels were sold. “I kept a log book for every sale I had until business died, must’ve been around 1,000 or so.”
Not Just a Snack—A Statement
The comment section was flooded with love. Many said they’d rather have a partner who made pretzels with care than someone who splurged on a ring with credit.
One person wrote, “As a woman, I’d rather have the pretzel-making man over a ring any day.”
Others admired the work ethic: “You paid for something with honest hard work. That’s something to be proud of!”
Some praised the quality of the food itself: “Those pretzels look absolutely incredible,” one said.
Another added, “They look beautiful! Better than Auntie Anne’s.”
Community Over Consumption
The post hit a bigger theme that resonated beyond carbs and jewelry. Plenty of people expressed how meaningful it is to use your own hands and skills to make progress in life.
One person shared that they paid for their wedding by selling tie-dye shirts. Another said they donate plasma to buy a ring. The comment section became a kind of working-class celebration.
And the support wasn’t just emotional. Dozens asked for the recipe, others wanted to place orders, and some even encouraged the OP to scale the business.
One person joked, “You should be ashamed for not selling some to me.”
Still Hustling—Sort Of
Unfortunately, the pretzel business ran into red tape.
“I had a fight with the town I live in to get appropriate licenses and permits for farmers markets and popups,” the OP said.
“I didn’t quit, but things have certainly come to a screeching halt.”
Still, the message landed. In a world where many people are encouraged to spend big and look flashy, this story stood out for its simplicity and sincerity.
Honest work, thoughtful gestures, and a soft pretzel or two can still go a long way.
And if you’re wondering, yes, there’s a cinnamon sugar version with cream cheese icing. Just don’t expect the recipe to be shared freely.
As one person put it, “That ring was baked with love. Lucky fiancé.”
This story reminded thousands online that effort, not expense, is what truly makes something meaningful.
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