So happy: Lucy and Mario

Lucy Mecklenburgh and Mario Falcone say their engagement is for real.

The ‘Only Way Is Essex’ couple - who got engaged on the popular ITV1 show in May - want to show fans they are serious about their commitment and claim their relationship isn’t just a publicity stunt.

Lucy, 20, said: “It’s showing people we’re not a silly young couple. We’re committed to each other.”

Mario added: “It’s not just for a TV show.”

However, Mario insists that viewers won’t be getting a glimpse into their upcoming nuptials as the pair intends to keep the wedding ceremony private.

Mario revealed to OK! magazine: “I said to the producers they could film the engagement as long as the cameras were in the background and they weren’t dictating to me what to do. But our wedding is just for us.”

The lovebirds think their relationship is made of stronger stuff then ‘TOWIE’’s other couples because it’s the most realistic.

Lucy explained: “We’re the only couple who met off camera.”

Mario added: “We’re the only couple who have lived together too.” Lucy Mecklenburgh and Mario Falcone say their engagement is for real.