"I try to remember, as I hear about friends getting engaged, that it's not about the ring. It's a grave thing, getting married"

In this quote, Gwyneth Paltrow is reviewing the principle of marital relationship and engagements. She acknowledges that in today's society, there is typically a focus on the material aspects of getting engaged, such as the ring. However, she advises herself that the true significance of marital relationship exceeds product ownerships. Paltrow recognizes that marital relationship is a serious dedication and needs to not be taken lightly. It is a "serious thing," suggesting it is a weighty and crucial choice. She is reminding herself to not get captured up in the superficial aspects of engagements, but to remember the gravity and importance of the commitment of marital relationship.