Hi Bridget, I hope my future wife will think like you. We have spent our limited time in Phils just chatting and getting to know each other. She wouldn't even let me take her to the more costly places to eat, she was so thoughtful like that
I have no time for designer labels myself either and think the world has gone mad even contemplating spending ludicrous money on items to make themselves feel good. People have wardrobes full of clothes that they never use, but they are off to the shops to buy more.
Most people I grew up in the UK thought like this, that friendship and good conversation were the most important things, and not to let advertisers brainwash everyone.
My GF seemed to appreciate the acts of kindness, affection and warmth more than anything which bode well for the future in my eyes.