Wedding Bands: When To Pick The Perfect One

Wedding bands are a symbol of marital commitment, so it's important to choose the right one. While there's no perfect time to buy your wedding bands, it's recommended to start looking three to four months before the wedding and have them in hand a month before. This is especially important if you want a custom design, which can take six to eight weeks. You should also consider the metal type, width, fit, and whether you want any engravings or stones. Your wedding band should reflect your personal style and be comfortable enough for everyday wear, as it's a piece of jewellery you'll likely never take off.

Start your search early

It's never too early to start looking for your wedding bands. After all, your wedding day is just one day, but your wedding band will be with you for life. While some couples wait until the last minute, or even just a month before the wedding, it's recommended that you start your search about three to four months before the big day. This is especially important if you're looking for a custom design, which can take six to eight weeks, or if you want to shop around for the perfect ring.

Starting early gives you time to browse and try on different styles, and to make sure you're happy with your choice. It's also a good idea to try on wedding bands with your engagement ring, so you can see how they look together. If you're planning to wear them together, you'll want to make sure they complement each other and fit well on your finger. You might even want to consider buying them as a set.

If you're looking for a unique design or a custom band, starting your search early is crucial. Customization can take time, and you don't want to be rushed or stressed as your wedding day approaches. By giving yourself a few months, you can also take advantage of sales and discounts, and you won't feel pressured to settle for something that's just "good enough."

Additionally, don't forget to consider the practical aspects of your wedding band. Think about your lifestyle and choose a band that suits your daily activities. If you work with your hands or lead an active lifestyle, opt for a simple, durable design that won't get damaged easily. Also, consider the maintenance and upkeep of your band—more intricate designs may require extra care and time to keep them looking their best.

Remember, your wedding band is a symbol of your marital commitment, so take your time to find the perfect one. Starting your search early ensures you'll have a ring you'll love for a lifetime.

Shop with your engagement ring

When it comes to choosing a wedding band, you should start your search early. While there aren't strict rules about pairing your engagement ring with your wedding band, you should love how they look together, as that's how you'll likely wear them. It's up to you whether you want the set to be a perfect match or complementary. Try on options both with and without your engagement ring to make sure you love the look worn both ways.

The shape of your diamond in the engagement ring can impact which wedding ring style will suit it best. Different diamond shapes, such as round, princess, oval, or emerald, have distinct characteristics and proportions that look better with some wedding ring styles than others. This will give you the best idea of how the rings will look together.

If you plan on wearing your engagement ring and wedding band as a pair, it's helpful to try them on together before buying. You can see if the styles look good together and fit well without any gaps.

You can also look online for ring inspiration. Take cues from celebrities like Hailey Bieber or Sofia Richie, and let their styles spark your creativity.

Additionally, consider your lifestyle when choosing a wedding band. If you're constantly working with your hands or playing sports, opt for a simple solid gold design or a low-profile ring. If you have an active lifestyle but want sparkle, consider a wedding ring with channel-set gemstones.

Keep your lifestyle in mind

When choosing a wedding band, it's important to keep your lifestyle in mind. You'll be wearing your wedding band every day, so it's essential to select a ring that suits your daily activities and personal style. If you work with your hands, play sports, or lead an active lifestyle, opt for a simple, solid gold design or a low-profile ring. These options are also ideal if you don't want the hassle of extra upkeep. If you want to add some sparkle to your ring without compromising durability, consider a wedding band with channel-set gemstones.

Your occupation and hobbies should also be considered when choosing a wedding band. If you have a job that involves working with machinery or tools, you may want to choose a ring that won't catch or conduct electricity. Additionally, if you're someone who likes to work on projects with your hands or engage in outdoor activities that could damage your ring, a low-maintenance band might be the best option.

When deciding on a wedding band, it's crucial to think about the level of maintenance you're comfortable with. More intricate wedding bands require more time and care to keep them in good condition. If you're not interested in the extra upkeep, a simple gold or platinum ring might be the best choice.

The width and fit of your wedding band are also important considerations. The most common widths are 4mm (narrow), 6mm (medium), and 8mm (wide). You can also choose between a standard fit, which is flat on the interior, and a comfort fit, which is round on the inside and outside. Keep in mind that the width and fit don't determine the size, so make sure the ring is custom-fitted to your finger to avoid slipping or discomfort.

Finally, consider your day-to-day style when choosing a wedding band. Do you usually wear jeans and a tee, sportswear, or suits and ties? Answering these questions will help you select a ring that aligns with your lifestyle and personality.

Don't worry about matching

Matching wedding bands are a sweet way to symbolise your union. Historically, men's and women's wedding rings did match, and this tradition is still common in some cultures. However, there is no hard-and-fast rule that says your wedding bands have to match. In fact, it is becoming more and more common for couples to choose different bands to express their individuality and unique personalities within their union.

If you and your partner have vastly different tastes, there is no need to compromise on a matching set. You can each choose a ring that you love and that reflects your style. This is especially true if you have different preferences for metals. For example, if you are a silver person and your partner prefers gold, or if one of you wants a wider band while the other prefers something more delicate.

There are also practical considerations. If one of you has an active lifestyle or works with your hands, a durable and simple band might be preferable, whereas your partner might want something more intricate that requires extra upkeep.

If you want to strike a balance between matching and unique, you can consider matching certain aspects of your wedding bands, such as the type of metal or overall style, while still allowing for individual preferences in the design. For instance, you could both choose rose gold bands but with different patterns or widths. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and your partner, and there is no wrong answer.

Factor in your budget

When it comes to wedding bands, there are many factors to consider, and one of the most important is your budget. Wedding bands can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, so it's essential to determine how much you want to spend before you start shopping. Here are some factors to consider when budgeting for your wedding bands:

• Metal Choice: The type of metal you choose for your wedding bands will significantly impact the cost. Platinum and palladium are more expensive options but are highly durable and require less maintenance. Gold, particularly white gold, is a popular choice and often comes at a great price point, but it may need to be rhodium-plated over time to maintain its colour. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider a tungsten band, which is considerably less expensive than gold or platinum. However, keep in mind that tungsten cannot be resized or repaired.
• Band Width: Wedding bands come in various widths, and the wider the band, the more metal it requires, which will drive up the cost. Consider the look you want and your finger size when deciding on the width of your band.
• Diamonds and Gemstones: Adding diamonds or gemstones to your wedding band will increase the price significantly. The size, carat weight, and quality of the stones will all play a role in determining the final cost. If you're considering a diamond or gemstone band, be prepared to spend more than you would on a plain metal band.
• Customisation and Engraving: If you want your wedding band to be customised or engraved, it will likely cost more. Customising your band to match your engagement ring or adding a personal message through engraving can be a beautiful touch, but it will add to the overall price. Hand engraving is typically more expensive than machine engraving.
• Eternity Bands: An eternity band with diamonds or gemstones going all the way around the ring is a stunning choice but comes with a higher price tag. If it's within your budget, an eternity band creates a beautiful visual when paired with an engagement ring.
• Matching Sets: If you're looking for a wedding band that perfectly matches your engagement ring, your options may be more limited, and the price may be higher. You can also consider complementing your engagement ring with a band that has a similar style and colour without being an exact match, which can give you more control over the cost.
• Discounts and Deals: If you purchased your engagement ring from a jeweller, they may offer you a discount or special value if you also buy your wedding bands from them. Keep an eye out for wedding band events or promotions, as these can be a great opportunity to find a wide selection of rings at great values.

Remember, your wedding bands are a symbol of your love and commitment, and they will be with you for a lifetime. While it's important to consider your budget, don't be afraid to prioritise this purchase over other wedding expenses. You can always upgrade your wedding band later if you're working with a tight budget now. Start your search early, and don't be afraid to shop around to find the perfect bands that fit both your style and your budget.

Frequently asked questions