Wedding Band: The Perfect Timing

There are no hard and fast rules about when to buy a wedding band, but most sources recommend starting to look around three to four months before the wedding and making the purchase at the six-week mark at the latest. This gives you time to browse, decide on customisations and deal with any unforeseen delays. If you're engraving the rings or opting for custom designs, you'll need to allow extra time. It's also worth bearing in mind that sales tend to happen at certain times of the year, so you might want to plan your purchase with this in mind.

Shop 3-4 months before the wedding

Wedding bands are a huge symbol of love and commitment, so it's important to choose the right one. While there's no specific timeline for buying wedding bands, it's recommended that you start looking 3-4 months before the wedding day and have them in hand a month before. This gives you extra time in case your rings take longer than expected to be sized or shipped.

Starting early is especially important if you want something unusual or with diamonds or gemstones, as most wedding bands are made to order. You don't want to risk an unforeseen delay, so the more time you have to figure out the details, the better your chances of selecting something that will stand the test of time.

If you're planning to get your wedding band engraved, keep in mind that this may take a few extra days. If you want custom bands, the process can take at least six to eight weeks, depending on your specific requests and the jeweller.

To make the process stress-free, treat it as a fun pre-wedding activity and a chance to guide your fiancé towards choosing a ring that you love. You can go wedding band shopping together or do it separately and let the reveal happen on the wedding day as a sweet and romantic gift exchange.

If you're looking for ways to save money, keep an eye out for sales and discounts. Buying your wedding band during a sale can save you a significant amount, and you can also look for alternative stones that are conflict-free, sustainable, and ethically sourced.

Custom bands can take 6-8 weeks

Custom wedding bands can take 6-8 weeks to create, so it's important to plan ahead if you want something unique. While there's no one-size-fits-all approach to buying a wedding band, most couples should start their search at least three months before the wedding. The more time you have to figure out the details, the better your chances of selecting a band that suits your style and personality.

Custom wedding bands are made to order, so it's crucial to allow enough time for the design and creation process. Six to eight weeks is a standard timeline for custom jewellery, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the jeweller's workload. If you're considering custom bands, it's a good idea to start the process early, especially if you want something unusual or with intricate details.

When it comes to wedding bands, you have the freedom to choose a style that reflects your unique love story. Whether you opt for a simple metal band or a more intricate design with diamonds or gemstones, the most important thing is that the band represents your commitment to each other.

To ensure you have enough time for any unforeseen delays, it's recommended to have your wedding bands in hand at least a month before the wedding. This will give you extra time if your rings need adjustments or take longer than expected to ship. Planning ahead will help reduce stress and ensure a more enjoyable wedding planning experience.

Remember, your wedding band is a symbol of your love and commitment, so take the time to find something that truly reflects your style and personality. Whether you choose a custom design or a ready-made option, allowing 6-8 weeks for custom bands will ensure a timely and stress-free process.

Shop in-store, not online

While there are many reputable online vendors for wedding bands, there are several reasons why you should consider shopping in-store for your wedding bands.

Firstly, wedding bands are a significant purchase, both financially and emotionally. By shopping in-store, you can try on a variety of styles to get a sense of what you and your partner like and what suits you both. This is especially important for comfort, as you'll be wearing these rings every day. You can also get a better sense of the quality and craftsmanship of the rings by examining them in person.

Secondly, wedding bands come in a range of metals, from platinum and gold to titanium and tungsten. By shopping in-store, you can see these metals in person and decide which option is the best fit for your lifestyle and personal style. For example, if you work with your hands, a stronger metal like tungsten or platinum might be a better choice. You can also get a better sense of the weight and feel of each metal, which is difficult to gauge from online images alone.

Another advantage of shopping in-store is the opportunity to consult with a professional jeweler. They can guide you through the process, answer any questions, and provide advice on sizing, metal types, and any additional features you may want, such as engravings or gemstone settings. They can also help ensure that your wedding bands are properly sized, which is crucial, as some rings, especially eternity bands, cannot be resized.

Finally, shopping in-store allows you to make a special memory together. Trying on wedding bands and finding the perfect rings can be a fun and romantic experience for you and your partner. It can be a wonderful part of your wedding journey and a chance to create lasting memories together.

While online shopping offers convenience, there are clear advantages to visiting a physical store for your wedding bands. By taking the time to shop in-store, you can ensure that you and your partner find rings that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

Buy during a sale

Buying during a sale is a great way to save some money on your wedding bands. There are a few things to keep in mind if you plan to buy during a sale. Firstly, don't wait until the last minute as you may not find what you want and you may end up feeling stressed. It's recommended to start shopping about three to four months before the wedding and make the purchase at the six-week mark, at the latest. This gives you enough time to find the perfect ring and avoid any potential delays. If you're engraving the rings or opting for custom designs, it may take a few extra days or weeks, so plan accordingly.

Keep an eye out for sales and promotions offered by jewellers. These can happen during certain times of the year, such as Black Friday or Christmas, or you may come across a store-specific sale. By purchasing during these sales, you can take advantage of discounted prices and save a significant amount of money. It is also a good idea to compare prices and shop around to ensure you're getting the best deal.

When buying during a sale, it's important to have a clear idea of what you're looking for. With so many options available, from metal choices to stone settings, it can be overwhelming. Communicate with your partner and decide on key aspects such as metal type, band size, stone preferences, and any engravings you may want. This will help you make the most of the sale and ensure you end up with a ring that truly reflects your style and personality.

Additionally, consider the timing of the sale in relation to your wedding date. While there is no "too early" to buy a wedding band, especially if you're getting a good deal, you may want to avoid purchasing it too far in advance. This is because your finger size can change over time due to various factors, and you want to ensure the ring fits comfortably on your wedding day.

By following these tips, you can successfully buy his wedding band during a sale and benefit from both a financial and emotional perspective. A well-timed purchase can ease the financial burden and allow you to focus your budget on other aspects of the wedding. More importantly, the wedding band you choose will be a symbol of your love and commitment, so finding one that suits your partner's style and reflects your unique love story is essential.

Shop with your fiancé

Shopping for wedding bands with your fiancé can be a fun pre-wedding activity and a great way to guide them towards buying a ring that you will love. Plus, you'll both be there in person to try rings on, so there won't be any mystery surrounding ring sizes.

• Start looking for bands about 3-4 months before the wedding day: It's recommended to start your search early, especially if you want something unusual or with custom details. Most wedding bands are made to order, so leaving plenty of time will help avoid unforeseen delays. Aim to have the rings in hand at least a month before the wedding.
• Discuss finances and budgeting: Talk openly about your budget and how you plan to split the cost of the rings. Be honest about what you both prefer and can afford to prevent any negative feelings from arising. Consider your financial history as a couple and whether you've always split costs evenly. You may also want to take into account any other upcoming expenses, such as a honeymoon or a new home.
• Decide on the metal type: Gold is the most popular option, but platinum, tungsten, and palladium are also good choices. If you want your bands to match, deciding on the metal should be the first step. If you're looking for something unique, you can also mix metals. Consider your lifestyle and the type of jewellery you usually wear. If you work with your hands, opt for a stronger metal that can withstand wear and tear.
• Think about adding stones and gems: Diamonds, sapphires, and rubies can make your wedding bands unique and add sparkle. However, this will increase the cost, so consider your budget and how practical it is for your lifestyle.
• Get the right size: Make sure you know the correct ring size for both of you to avoid delays due to resizing. If you plan to have your bands engraved, keep in mind that this may also extend the delivery timeline.
• Shop around: Compare prices and styles from different jewellers, both online and in-store. Don't be afraid to look at alternative options like Etsy, local jewellers, or even pawn shops to find the best deal.

Remember, the most important thing is to find bands that you both love and that reflect your individual styles. Enjoy the experience of shopping for these symbols of your commitment to each other!

Frequently asked questions