The best time to buy your wedding band is right before or just after your engagement, as you’ll be full of excitement for your upcoming marriage – these strong romantic feelings can be easily channeled into a timeless piece of jewelry you’ll both adore as much as you do one another.
How to pick a wedding band for your engagement ring?
The first step when deciding how to pick a wedding band is knowing the different types of engagement ring settings. The shape of the center stone, the size, and whether or not the ring has a halo all affect the types of wedding bands that will look good with your engagement ring.
How long does it take to get a wedding band made?
If you are having your wedding rings custom made, allow even more time. Certain styles can take longer, and retailers may require about 3-6 weeks to custom make your wedding bands. The recommended time to begin the search is about 6 months before the wedding to ensure that you aren’t under pressure or rushed.
When is the best time to buy a wedding ring?
The recommended time to begin the search is about 6 months before the wedding to ensure that you aren’t under pressure or rushed. If you leave it till the last minute, you might not have time to get that perfect ring and will have to make do with second best.
How long does it take to get a wedding ring sized?
Generally, allow about a 3-4 weeks to have your rings sized and ready. If you are having your wedding rings custom made, allow even more time. Certain styles can take longer, and retailers may require about 3-6 weeks to custom make your wedding bands.
Are you supposed to pick out your wedding band?
Most couples today go to their jeweler and pick out wedding bands together as a couple, with each person ultimately having final say in their ring. It is often the case that the bands will not match.
How far in advance should you buy your wedding ring?
around three to four monthsSo, when do you buy your wedding rings? We recommend around three to four months prior to your wedding. This gives you plenty of time to browse ring styles, take a few shopping trips to try them on and to decide together which bands are best for you and your lifestyle.
Should I buy the wedding band at the same time as the engagement ring?
Buying your wedding bands and your engagement ring as a full bridal set can really simplify the shopping process. You don't even have to think about finding a match because they will already be perfectly paired. It also makes shopping easier, because you're just looking at sets to decide on one you both like.
Do girls pick out their wedding band?
Traditionally, the groom picks out the ring for his bride, one of the few choices he has to make for the wedding. However, modern bridezillas are trying to take control of this, too, with an increasing number of women choosing their engagement ring.
How soon is too soon for a ring?
If you're too young to get married then there's really no wrong time, but we'd recommend no sooner than 2 months in. If you're bridging the gap to marriage, around 4-6 months is a good time-frame.
What is the rule for how much to spend on a wedding ring?
Rule of thumb: Spend 2 months of your income on an engagement ring. If you are making $1000 per month, spend $2000 on an engagement ring. If you're making $2500 per month, spend $5000.
What happens to engagement ring after wedding?
Move the Ring Traditionally, the wedding band goes first on the finger so it's closest to the heart. To ensure the proper position, some brides temporarily move their engagement ring to their right hand. Then, after the nuptials, they return the ring to their left hand over the wedding band.
Can I use my engagement ring as my wedding ring?
Can You Use the Engagement Ring as a Wedding Ring? If you're still wondering if you can use the engagement ring for your wedding ceremony, the answer is yes. The only factor that should go into this decision is the couple's personal preferences. There are no official rules.
Do you wear your engagement ring after you get married?
Traditionally, you wear your engagement ring and wedding ring together on the fourth finger of your left hand. As far as how to stack them, tradition holds that you'll wear the wedding band inside the engagement ring so that it's closer to your heart (aww).
Do guys wear a ring when they are engaged?
Many men choose to wear their engagement ring on the ring finger of the right hand. Others may even choose to wear it as a necklace strung from a simple chain. However you may want to wear it, the consensus is that there are no rules - you can be as traditional or unique as you want.
Who should pay for wedding rings?
The wedding rings are a split cost between the bride and groom's families. The groom's family pays for the bride's ring and vice versa. Who pays for the wedding flowers? The bouquet should be a gift from the groom to the bride.
What is the salary rule for engagement rings?
One of the most infamous wedding etiquette rules, though, revolves around the engagement ring. It's known as the "three months' salary" rule, and it implies that a buyer should put three months of their salary toward a sparkler for their future spouse.
Should the wedding ring be more expensive than the engagement ring?
In general, engagement rings are bigger and flashier than their wedding ring counterpart. They typically feature a larger center stone (often, a diamond), and are characterized, for many, by their bling factor. Thus, the engagement ring is generally the more expensive of the two rings.
Which should cost more wedding band or engagement ring?
Since they're often decorated with diamonds or precious stones, engagement rings are typically more expensive than wedding rings. The type of metal, carat size, and intricacy of the ring design can push the price up considerably, which makes wedding bands less expensive on average.
How to know if you have found the right wedding band?
Your wedding band will be worn forever, so don’t rush the process. Take time to check out different styles, widths, and textures. Similar to your wedding gown, you’ll know when you’ve found the right one. Don’t be scared to bookmark some of your favorite ring styles, share them with your fiancé, and “sleep on it”. If you still love a particular design after several days, you know you’ve found the perfect ring.
What is the secondary piece to the engagement ring?
The wedding band is typically the secondary piece to the set. Let the engagement ring do the shining and let the wedding band beautifully complement it. For instance, if your engagement ring has many diamonds around the band and a diamond in the center, you might want to choose a band that is simple (sans diamonds).
Do wedding bands and engagement rings have to match?
Your engagement ring and wedding band do not have to match, but they should convey a similar look and feel. Use one of the design elements in your engagement ring to tie into your band (i.e. style, such as classic or vintage; same-shaped stones, or engraving).
Do wedding rings match?
Your wedding ring does not need to match his ring. He should pick a wedding band that works with his style, just as you should pick one that works for you. There’s no need to match in any way, even down to metal (unless you want to).
How to start a wedding band?
One of the simplest ways to start your band search it to use your engagement ring as a guide. Although there will be times when you rock your wedding band solo, you want to make sure it complements your engagement ring when worn together. Go to local jewelry stores and try on everything—even styles you never thought you'd consider. When it comes down to making a decision, select a band you love and can see yourself wearing for a lifetime. Make sure it’s comfortable, conducive to your lifestyle, and looks great alone as well as with your engagement ring. Finally, “Make sure your jeweler has a great warranty that will take care of your jewelry for you,” advises Haas. They’ll be your go-to for any cleaning, sizing, changes, or repairs for the lifetime of the ring.
What is the width of a wedding band?
Most of the time, brides will match the width of their wedding bands to that of their engagement rings, with the most common being between 2 and 4 mm. That said, mixing widths can create a unique look, so don’t be afraid to shop for something bigger or smaller, depending on the overall vibe you want to achieve.
What to ask a jeweler before buying a ring?
Before making your purchase, ask about things like costs for adjustments, replacements, and insurance.
How to keep your rings from tarnishing?
For cleaning between trips to the jeweler, scrub with a soft toothbrush and some gentle dish detergent under hot water (just make sure to close the sink).
What is a finish on a men's ring?
“Finishes on men’s rings specifically are popular,” mentions Haas.”And not always just the traditional high polish.” When it comes down to the final details of your band, a finish can really set the accessory apart and help your ring standout. Whether you long for a more textured look found in stone, brush, matte, hammered, or sandblast, or you prefer a satin or high polish, a finish is a final touch that will truly make your band your own.
Do pave diamonds fall out?
While pavé styles (small diamonds line the band) add lots of sparkle and flair, the gems can come loose and fall out over time, especially if you live an active lifestyle. If you still want the glam look but don’t like the risk of missing stones or snags that come with pavé, consider a channel setting instead.
Do you have to agree on a wedding band?
Wedding bands are very personal, and there’s no rule that says a couple needs to agree on a metal or style. It’s all about finding what you love and what reflects your individual styles, together! If you do want to have similar bands, consider a unisex option, a braided band that blends two metals you both love, or a similar element such as a hammered finish. Whether you match, find something unique, or forego bands altogether, coming to a solution you love together is what it’s all about.
Wedding band designs you should know about
You'll be glad you checked these wedding band styles before making a choice:
Two-tone
Not sure which precious metal would match most of your jewelry pieces? Pick out a two-tone wedding band! This will make it extra stress-free when it's time to set your fashion looks apart! Browse
Curved
Curved bands are also known as guard bands because they help hold your engagement ring very securely on your finger.
Eternity
For brides who love wearing bold pieces of jewelry, eternity bands are classic and elegant, with just a little touch of sparkle which doesn’t get in the way when you’re accessorizing an outfit or jewelry look. If you seek a super-comfortable fit, consider wearing half-eternity bands.
Jackets
Jackets (or ring enhancers) are similar to curved bands, but they cover both sides of your wedding band instead. Jackets are exquisite, showcase accented diamonds, and will boost any engagement ring style. Browse
Fancy
If you're looking for something outside the box, fancy wedding band designs can include everything including wide, twisted, double rows, or roped details. You might only make a few additions to your closet every season, but they'll always appear different when you pair them with a fancy wedding band! Browse
When Do Men Purchase Their Wedding Bands?
Men will typically purchase a woman’s wedding band at least six weeks before the wedding takes place, though shopping a couple of months before the big event is advisable.
The Origins of Wedding Bands
In Egyptian, Roman, and Greek cultures, it was definitely most common for the man to choose/offer wedding rings first.
Wedding Hand: Left or Right?
As mentioned above, Egypt and Rome set the standard of the fourth finger being traditionally used as the ring finger.
How wide is a wedding band?
Wide Wedding Bands. These are modern and trendy and very different from the traditional styles. To be considered a wide ring, the width must be at least 7 mm. If going for this style, ensure that it matches your engagement ring, as wide wedding rings can look weird with certain engagement ring styles.
Why does it take so long to buy wedding rings?
Shopping for wedding rings can take time, because there are two people involved. The best way to go about this is to first be familiar with the various styles, metals and designs available to you on the market.
What is the best gold for a wedding ring?
This is the traditional classic choice for a wedding ring. When choosing yellow gold, it is best to go with 14 karat or 18 karat gold. These have the best look and durability. Yellow gold with over 75% purity is going to be too soft for daily wear and will easily scratch and loose shape.
Why do people wear wedding rings every day?
After all, a wedding ring will be worn every single day for the rest of your life! It signifies the greatest commitment that you have made and is a enduring visible symbol of your marriage.
How long does it take to get wedding rings made?
Generally, allow about a 3-4 weeks to have your rings sized and ready. If you are having your wedding rings custom made, allow even more time. Certain styles can take longer, and retailers may require about 3-6 weeks to custom make your wedding bands.
What are the two main categories of wedding rings?
There are so many wedding ring styles available on the market that choosing one can be overwhelming! However, most wedding rings fall into two categories: Traditional or modern.
What does a wedding ring represent?
Throughout history, wedding rings have symbolised love, loyalty and faithfulness. This tradition springs from ancient times and is widely found in almost every culture.
Why don't brides choose their rings?
For brides-to-be who don’t choose their rings, it’s often because they don’t want to spoil the surprise of the proposal.
What happens if you are not married?
Every relationship has a different arrangement when it comes to money. Chances are that if you’re not married, your finances are separate from your partner’s. That means you’ll be picking out a ring your partner’s money is paying for.
Is it better to pick out your ring yourself or pick it out yourself?
There’s no better way to ensure you’ll love your ring than picking it out yourself. For some couples, though, that can be a sensitive subject. Here’s how to make ring shopping an experience that helps you bond before your wedding instead of making you fight.
Do you need to settle for a custom ring set?
Speaking of widening your selection, don’t forget that a custom ring set is an option. You don’t need to settle for what you find in the store, especially if you know what you want.
How to pick a wedding band?
A marriage is a union of two individuals, and each person is bound to have a style they like best. When picking out wedding rings together, discuss your likes and dislikes with your partner. It will help determine the perfect band for your new spouse.
Who Pays For The Wedding Rings?
Historical examples suggest the bridge should purchase the groom’s ring and vice versa, but this is not always the case. In some instances, the parents of the bride or groom may step in to pick up the cost. More often, though, the cost of the wedding rings is part of the wedding budget. This allows for easier planning and payment.
Why do you wear a twisted wedding band on an oval engagement ring?
We love a twisted wedding band for oval engagement rings because this style enhances the trendy vibe of the diamond shape. Pair your oval engagement ring with one wedding band, or take a cue from Blake Lively’s stylebook and create a custom ring stack with multiple wedding bands for a non-traditional look .
What does a wedding band mean?
After all, the wedding band signifies your transition from being engaged to getting married, and like your engagement ring, it’s something you’ll be wearing for the rest of your life. You have the engagement ring of your dreams —now it’s time to find the perfect wedding band!
What is the best band for an engagement ring?
A flat, unembellished wedding band is an ideal match for an engagement ring with a bezel setting. This type of band should easily sit flush under the raised stone of the engagement ring, making it a great option for active brides or anyone who wants a minimal look.
What is the meaning of the engagement ring and wedding band?
After all, the wedding band signifies your transition from being engaged to getting married, and like your engagement ring, it’s something you’ll be wearing for the rest of your life. You have the engagement ring of your dreams —now it’s time to find the perfect wedding band!
What style of ring goes with a Halo?
Pair with: pavé wedding band. A pavé style is one of our favorite ways to pair your halo engagement ring with a wedding band. This option is great if you want to achieve maximum sparkle status. If you’re feeling stuck in terms of how to pick a wedding band, pavé styles are a timeless choice and are generally flattering for most ring types.
What is the best wedding band for an emerald cut engagement ring?
An eternity wedding band is oh-so opulent, which is why it's the best wedding band for emerald cut engagement rings. An eternity band is made of stones that go all the way around the band (it's named the 'eternity' band because there is no beginning or end) and can feature emerald, princess, and asscher cuts.
What is the best wedding band for a solitaire ring?
A curved wedding band is the best wedding band for a solitaire engagement ring. This style fits around the engagement ring, framing it and making it appear even larger by adding sparkle and width. A notched wedding band is very similar—instead of curving around the outside edge of your engagement ring, the band has a small dip in the center ...
