Shopping for wedding rings can be a challenging process for engaged couples. A wedding ring is a symbol of devotion and unconditional love. Therefore, it is only fitting that you and your partner carefully choose the rings that embody you as a couple. Here are some useful tips that can help once you start shopping for the perfect wedding rings.
Set a budget
Before you start shopping around for wedding ring options, you first need to identify your budget. Discuss with your partner and list down your priorities. Are you willing to spend a lot on a platinum band, or are you comfortable with sterling silver? Are you particular about the size of your diamond, or do you want to go with a more unconventional stone?
Some recommend that you should set aside around 5% of your overall budget for your wedding rings. However, it still depends on your wedding priorities and the things that truly matter for both of you. Come up with a figure that you and your partner are both comfortable with. Try to stick within your price range and always be upfront, especially with your jeweler. Remember that you can still get the wedding rings of your dream even with a tight budget.
Think long-term
When choosing your wedding rings, keep in mind that you will be wearing it for decades, so it should be something that can put a smile on your face every time you look at it. Envision yourself 10 years from now wearing your rings. Will you still be comfortable wearing them once you turn 60 or 70 years old? It is pointless to buy a fancy ring with a big diamond if it will only hurt your finger or be an eyesore once you get older. Avoid going for the latest trends as they often change for a reason. It is perfectly fine if you want to step outside the box and choose an untraditional wedding ring, but you should make sure that you will love it for future years.
Start early
One of the common mistakes of couples is they tend to overlook their wedding rings. Ideally, you should begin your search two months before your big day. Remember you need to consider several factors, and buying your wedding rings in a hurry will only lead to serious issues in the long run. In addition, ring engraving, customization, and alteration can take some time to be finished, so you must start the process early on.
Shop together as a couple
Compared to your engagement ring, buying wedding rings should not be a surprise. Make sure that you buy your wedding rings as a couple. It can be a great bonding activity that can further strengthen your relationship. You can even turn the activity into a date to make it more memorable. Depending on your preferences, you can either opt for identical wedding rings or go for different styles with matching features. By shopping together, you can narrow down your options and help each other find the one that suits them best.
Think about your lifestyle
Do you have an active lifestyle or spend the whole day at your desk? Does your job require you to use your hands continuously? If you have an active lifestyle, avoid rings with extensive carvings and go for a thinner band instead. Or, if you work with your hands, a ring with few embellishments can be an excellent option for you. Be practical when choosing your wedding rings and go for something that can fit perfectly into your daily lives. Choose something functional yet stylish. You will just be wasting your hard-earned money if you buy a ring that doesn’t feel good on your finger.
Consider your styles
Consider your personal style and preferences. Look at your jewelry and think about what grabs your attention when you are at a jewelry store. Determine your style and talk to your partner about what he wants. If you have different tastes, make sure to discuss your options with one another. If you decide to get different wedding ring styles, ensure that you are both in agreement with your decision, and neither of you needs to compromise just to make the other one happy. There is no rule that states that your wedding rings should match, but it would be nice if there is a feature in your rings that connects you as a couple.
Know your ring options
Many couples get overwhelmed when buying wedding rings since there are several options to choose from. The first thing you need to determine is your metal. Some of the popular metals are white gold, yellow gold, platinum, sterling silver, and rose gold. Platinum and gold are among the most expensive ones, while white gold and sterling silver are affordable alternatives. You can also opt for industrial metals such as tungsten and titanium, which have gained popularity in the past years. Aside from choosing your metal, it is also vital that you focus on the quality. Check for the markings on the inside of your rings. Some of the aspects you should see are the manufacturer’s mark, the quality mark, and the type of metal.
Find a reliable jeweler
Another factor you need to discuss with your partner is where to buy your wedding rings. You can either buy it online or at a physical store. Each option has its own set of pros and cons. For instance, shopping online allows you to compare several rings in the comfort of your home. Online rings also tend to have a lower price tag compared to those offered at brick-and-mortar shops. However, you won’t be able to try it on and examine the ring for any defects.
If you opt to buy in a physical store, you get the chance to build a relationship with your jeweler. You can ask for discounts, and they can help you choose the perfect ring based on your budget. Make sure that you go with a trusted and experienced jeweler such as Love & Promise Jewelers that offer high-quality and beautifully crafted jewelry at a reasonable price.
Choosing your wedding rings is an essential aspect of your wedding preparation. Make sure that you plan in advance and choose your rings wisely.