Alternative Ways To Celebrate Your Wedding

what to do instead of a wedding band

Wedding bands are a traditional symbol of unity and love, but they are not for everyone. Luckily, there are endless alternatives for couples looking to forgo the ring exchange. From tattoos to engraved wallet cards, crystals to wine, there are many ways to symbolise your commitment without a wedding band. Whether you're looking for something unique, or you need to skip the ring due to work or health reasons, there's an option to suit every couple.

Characteristics Values
Type Jewelry, Gifts, Experiences
Jewelry Type Bracelets, Necklaces, Rings, Earrings, Watches
Gift Type Homemade gifts, Wine, Crystals, Trees, Photo albums, Poems, Art, Polaroids, Books, Video games, Blankets, Gemstones, Paintings, Drawings, Perfume/cologne, Shoes, Puzzles, Wallet cards, etc.
Experience Type Volunteering, Travel, etc.

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Matching watches

There are many different styles of matching watches to choose from, depending on your personal taste and budget. For instance, you can opt for whimsical designs or complementary styles, antique vintage design pieces, or watches for wanderlust couples. If you're an outdoorsy couple, consider a pair of watches with a unique allure, reminiscent of azure marine waters. Or, if you're a retro couple, go for a set of watches with an alluring contrast of black and gold.

You can also choose from a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, gold-tone stainless steel, or leather. If you want to add a personal touch, consider getting your watches engraved with a special message or your anniversary date.

So, if you're looking for a way to showcase your love and commitment without opting for a traditional wedding band, matching watches could be the perfect choice for you.

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Tattoos

There are endless design options for wedding tattoos. A popular choice is to get a tattoo around the ring finger, where a wedding ring would traditionally be placed. This can be a simple, plain band or a more intricate design, such as a nature-inspired symbol, a heart, an infinity sign, or a Claddagh symbol.

You could also opt for a tattoo of your wedding date, either in standard or Roman numerals. This can be placed on the ring finger or elsewhere on the body. Other options include each other's initials, names, or a phrase from your vows.

For those who want something more discreet, consider getting a small tattoo on the inside of the finger, such as a heart or a hidden letter. Alternatively, go big and bold with a full-finger tattoo featuring flowers, abstract art, or your wedding date.

It's important to keep in mind that finger tattoos tend to fade a bit quicker than tattoos on other parts of the body due to more wear and tear and sun exposure. They may also require touch-ups to keep them looking their best.

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Framed wedding certificate

Framing your wedding certificate is a great way to commemorate your special day and can be a wonderful alternative to a wedding band. It is a popular choice for those who prefer not to wear a symbol of their love but would rather display it in their home.

There are thousands of different frames, and each has its own size, colour, and style. You can choose from a range of materials, including wood, metal, glass, and acrylic. Some frames also come with an easel stand for tabletop display, while others are designed to be hung on a wall. When selecting a frame, it is important to ensure that it is the right size for your certificate.

You can also personalise your framed wedding certificate by adding your names, the date, and a special message. Some couples even include a photo or their wedding vows for an extra special touch.

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Matching necklaces

There are many different styles of matching necklaces for couples. For a classic and elegant option, consider a pair of heart-shaped pendants that interlock when placed together. If you're looking for something more unique, you might choose a pair of necklaces with a sun and moon motif or a set of jigsaw puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly. For a romantic touch, you could select a pair of necklaces with a cupid's arrow and heart design. Those who prefer a more subtle approach might opt for matching bar necklaces with a personalised message or their partner's name engraved on them.

When choosing matching necklaces as an alternative to wedding bands, you can also consider adding custom details such as your wedding date, initials, or a meaningful symbol. These personalised touches will make your necklaces even more special and allow you to carry a piece of your partner with you wherever you go.

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Gemstones or crystals

Gemstones and crystals are a popular alternative to traditional wedding bands, offering a unique way to express personal style and individuality through colour. Gemstone wedding rings are also a great way to showcase a unique personal symbol or highlight birthstone significance.

There are a variety of gemstones and crystals to choose from, each with its own symbolic meaning and significance. For example, a bright red ruby engagement ring says passion, while a dark blue sapphire engagement ring stands for loyalty. Couples might also choose gemstone wedding rings for their personality, uniqueness, and cost.

When choosing a gemstone or crystal wedding ring, it is important to consider the hardness of the stone. Softer stones like amethyst, opal, pearl, tanzanite, and morganite may not stand up to daily wear and may scratch or chip more easily. Harder stones like sapphire, emerald, ruby, aquamarine, spinel, and alexandrite are more durable options.

In addition to choosing the type of gemstone or crystal, couples can also customise their wedding rings by selecting the cut, setting, and metal used for the band. Popular metal choices include rose gold, white gold, and titanium, but there are also alternative metals such as silver, tungsten, cobalt, or ceramic.

Gemstone and crystal wedding rings can be a stylish and colourful alternative to traditional diamond wedding bands, allowing couples to create a unique and personalised piece of jewellery that perfectly blends individuality and sophistication.

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Frequently asked questions

There are many unique alternatives to a wedding band, including exchanging crystals, gemstones, or even a small sapling to symbolise the growth of your love. You could also get creative and opt for ring tattoos, matching necklaces, bracelets, or watches.

If you don't want to wear jewellery, you could consider exchanging framed wedding vows, engraved wallet cards, or even a bucket list of goals to achieve together. You could also donate your time by volunteering at a local charity or sponsor an animal in need.

For an experience-based alternative, you could create a bucket list of adventures to embark on together or donate your time by volunteering at a local charity. You could also plan a special trip, such as hiking to a mountaintop, to symbolise the challenges you will overcome as a united couple.

For a more sentimental option, you could exchange framed wedding vows, engraved wallet cards, or even a small sapling that you plant and watch grow together. These choices will remind you of your commitment and the growth of your love over time.

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