Who Buys The Bride's Wedding Band?

There are many traditions and expectations surrounding weddings, and one of the most important symbols of the occasion is the exchanging of rings. But who pays for these tokens of love? Traditionally, the bride (and/or her family) buys the groom's wedding ring, while the groom (and/or his family) pays for the bride's. However, this tradition assumes a binary couple and does not take into account more modern approaches to weddings and relationships. Nowadays, many couples decide to split the cost of the wedding rings, especially if they have already combined their finances. Others may choose to buy their own rings, or perhaps a close relative or friend may offer to pay as a gift. Ultimately, there are no hard-and-fast rules, and it is up to each couple to decide what works best for them.

The bride and groom buy each other's bands

While there are traditions and conventions surrounding the exchange of wedding bands, there are no hard-and-fast rules about who buys the wedding bands.

Traditionally, the bride (and/or her family) buys the groom's wedding ring, while the groom (and/or his family) pays for the bride's. This tradition assumes that weddings include a bride and a groom, but modern weddings are no longer governed by these gender rules.

Nowadays, each half of the couple is expected to pay for their other half's wedding band. However, some couples are splitting the cost of their wedding rings, especially if they have already combined their finances pre-wedding or are paying for all (or part) of their wedding together. This doesn't mean that each partner has to contribute an equal amount to the bands, though. The cost could be divided proportionally according to individual incomes, for example.

Some couples gift each other their wedding bands, while others buy their own rings or shop for both rings together.

The best course of action is for the couple to talk it out and come to a mutual agreement.

The couple buys both rings together

There is no hard-and-fast rule when it comes to who buys the wedding bands. While tradition dictates that each person buys the other's ring, modern couples are increasingly choosing to buy both rings together.

More and more couples are choosing to buy their wedding rings together. This approach can be especially practical for couples who have already combined their finances or are paying for the wedding together.

Even if you decide to shop for your rings together, you can still surprise your partner by keeping the budget a secret. This way, you can stay within a certain budget while ensuring your partner gets a ring that matches their taste.

If you're buying both rings together, it's important to have an open and honest conversation about your finances. Discuss whether you'll be contributing equal amounts to the rings or dividing the total cost proportionally based on your individual incomes.

Some couples choose to buy each other's rings as a gift, while others view the rings as a shared expense, especially if they already have a joint bank account.

Advantages of Buying Rings Together

• Both members of the couple know the ring will match their partner's taste.
• It can be more affordable, as the cost of the rings can be split between two people.
• It can be a fun and meaningful experience for the couple to shop for the rings together.
• It allows for open communication about finances, which is essential for married life.
• It ensures that both partners are on the same page about financial decisions.

Tips for Buying Wedding Bands

• Decide whether both people will be involved in setting the budget.
• Set priorities for the ring, such as the type of metal, engraving, band size, and any desired gemstones.
• Consider working with a gemologist to find the perfect ring within your budget.
• Leave enough time before the wedding to allow for any necessary resizing or engraving.
• Discuss your financial history as a couple and consider whether you typically split costs evenly.
• Think about your future plans and budget accordingly, especially if you have a honeymoon or a home purchase on the horizon.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose rings that are meaningful to you and your partner, regardless of who pays for them.

The bride buys the groom's band

Wedding ring traditions have evolved over the years, and while gender roles previously dictated who bought the wedding rings, this is no longer the case. There is no hard-and-fast rule about who buys the wedding bands, and it is entirely up to the couple to decide.

Traditional Approach

Traditionally, the bride (and/or her family) buys the groom's wedding ring, while the groom (and/or his family) pays for the bride's. This tradition assumes a binary couple, with a bride and a groom, and does not account for same-sex marriages or non-binary individuals.

Modern Approach

Today, many couples choose to make both ring purchases together, especially if they have a shared bank account or prefer to split costs. Some couples opt to purchase rings for each other, while others use the same pot of money to pay for both rings. In some cases, couples may decide to split the cost of the wedding bands proportionally, based on their individual incomes.

Practical Considerations

The groom's wedding band is often a last-minute purchase, with most of the attention focused on the bride's engagement and wedding rings. However, it is important to give sufficient time for custom jewellery design work or to address any issues like incorrect ring sizes or engraving flaws. When deciding who buys the wedding bands, couples should consider their financial history and future plans, such as honeymoon expenses or purchasing a home.

Communication is Key

Open communication is crucial to overcoming this dilemma. Discussing preferences and financial situations can help prevent any negative feelings associated with this significant investment. It is essential for couples to feel comfortable with the decision, as the wedding rings will be worn for a lifetime and should evoke fond memories.

The groom buys both rings

While there is no general rule about who buys the wedding bands, there are several traditions and modern approaches that couples can follow.

In some traditions, the groom buys both wedding rings. He can then pick out one for himself and give the other to the bride as a gift. This approach can be seen as a romantic gesture, with the rings serving as gifts that the couple exchanges.

The Couple Buys Each Other's Rings

Traditionally, the couple buys each other's wedding bands. This approach has been the common practice for a long time and is often considered romantic and straightforward.

The Couple Splits the Cost

In modern times, it is becoming increasingly common for couples to split the cost of their wedding rings. This approach may make sense for couples who have already combined their finances or are paying for their wedding together. It allows them to contribute proportionally to the cost of the rings based on their individual incomes.

Other Options

Other options include buying the rings themselves, allowing families to contribute or pay for them, or even opting for ring tattoos instead of traditional bands.

Ultimately, the decision about who buys the wedding bands is entirely up to the couple. They can choose to follow traditions, go ring shopping together, or make a decision based on their financial situation and preferences.

The couple splits the cost of the rings

There are no hard-and-fast rules about who buys the wedding bands. While traditionally, the bride (and/or her family) buys the groom's wedding ring, and the groom (and/or his family) pays for the bride's, nowadays, many couples split the cost of their wedding rings. This approach might make sense if you've already combined your finances, or if you're paying for your wedding together.

When splitting the cost, you don't have to contribute an equal amount. For example, you could divide the total cost proportional to your individual incomes, which is a common practice when splitting costs as a couple.

If you're planning to buy each other's wedding bands, it's a good idea to be open and honest about your finances. Discuss what you're both comfortable spending, and whether you want to stick to suggested norms, like spending two to three months' salary, or go for a more budget-friendly option.

You could also consider buying a set of inexpensive bands for the ceremony, which can be replaced with higher-quality rings in the future. This might be a good option if you have big honeymoon plans or are in the process of purchasing a home.

Remember, there's no one "best" place to buy wedding rings. You can visit your local jeweller or order them online.

Frequently asked questions