Wedding planning can be stressful, but that doesn’t mean it has to be. There are many ways you can help relieve your own stress and enjoy the process. This guide will get you on the easiest path to begin your wedding ring shopping.
The differences between an engagement ring and wedding ring are quite distinctive. Engagement rings are usually outfitted and centered around a type of gemstone, traditionally a diamond. There was a time when wedding and engagement rings were very much alike. Nowadays, modern wedding rings have evolved into simpler, delicate styles—such as infinity or eternity bands. The band of a wedding ring is typically a precious, monochromatic metal that can be customized with gemstones or a special engraving.
When shopping for wedding rings, you ought to decide what matches your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Let’s begin by highlighting five important questions you need to ask yourself before embarking on this task.
Where Should You Begin?
Was your engagement ring purchased instead of handed down? If so, this might make your search much easier. Many jewelers sell engagement rings and wedding bands together so that the design of both rings stays cohesive. Many places also offer his-and-hers ring sets for an easy experience, as well. However, if your ring was handed down, that makes it all the more special. Look at different websites and stores to find out what styles you like best paired with your engagement ring.
What Kind of Style?
You want to make sure you and your partner are both on the same page before making a potentially expensive purchase. Doing wedding ring shopping together and narrowing down styles makes the process more special and intimate. Do your research by flipping through some sale catalogs together to find something eye-catching. It’s okay if your rings don’t match. You want to make sure that they reflect your personal style. After all, you’re planning on wearing your wedding ring for a very long time.
What is Your Budget?
Lots of things can affect your budget. This can limit you in terms of style, metal, stones, and so on. Many jewelers offer financing options to help cushion the cost, but keep in mind that spending one or two months of your salary on an engagement or wedding ring is a myth. Setting a budget will keep you from spending too much and make the process less stressful. If your rings do end up being on the costlier side, it might be in your best interest to have them insured.
When Should You Buy?
Having the rings before the wedding is the ideal situation. Once the date is set, choose the rings you want 4-6 months in advance and have them ordered at least 6 weeks prior to the wedding. Personalization, uniqueness, resizing, and any additional accessorizing that needs to be done may take longer to complete.
Where Should You Buy From?
When you’ve made your decisions about style, budget, and timing, that should help you narrow down the best jeweler. Many people look for jewelers who source their gemstones through ethical, fair trade certified, conflict-free, or eco-friendly practices. Do your research so that you know you are comfortable with the jeweler. These days, you can do your wedding ring shopping from home. Online shopping can definitely help ease the burden of going out to dozens of stores. If you are considering buying your wedding ring online, make sure you read the fine print. And remember that you’re purchasing a ring to symbolize your love so have fun with it!
Guest Writer Tess DiNapoli