Re: How do you let your parents know you're ready?
I think I get what it is you're saying...you want a traditional-ish type of marriage but at the same time, you want to know the person you marry at least to some extent. Thats smart of you.
I dont see how you can accomplish this without being overt with your parents at least to some extent. Tell them whats on your mind - that you are not ready to marry but you do want to know the person you marry before you enter into the bond of marriage and that this will take some time. Assure them that you are not looking to date per se, but you also do not want to marry a person that you havent had a chance to know very well.
I knew my husband for almost 10 years before we married lol! But my case is not a typical one. But then again, we both knew that our marriage would work - and work very well - because we knew each other so well, we knew we both had the same hopes, dreams, desires and outlook on what we wanted...thats important IMHO and apparently it is to you too.
I bet your parents will understand.