Wedding Bands: Who Pays?

There is no clear tradition dictating who buys wedding bands. While traditionally, each person pays for the other's ring, nowadays, each half of the couple is expected to pay for their other half's band. However, some couples split the cost, while others buy each other's bands. Ultimately, it depends on what the couple decides, and it's essential to have open communication about expectations and preferences.

There are no rules, it's up to the couple

There are no rules when it comes to who buys the wedding bands—it's entirely up to the couple. While there are some traditions, modern weddings are no longer governed by the gender rules of the past, and traditions have changed accordingly.

Some couples choose to pay for each other's bands, while others split the cost evenly or start a shared wedding bank account to pay for the bands. If one person bought the engagement ring, the other may pay for the wedding bands. If the couple has already combined their finances, it makes sense for them to split the cost of the wedding bands. This doesn't mean that they have to contribute equally, though. They could divide the total cost proportionally to their individual incomes, for example.

Some couples gift each other their wedding bands, while others buy their own rings or shop for both rings together. It's perfectly acceptable to buy your own ring if you so choose.

Ultimately, it's essential for the couple to have open communication about their expectations, likes, and dislikes. Being transparent with each other will ensure a smooth process when it comes to purchasing wedding bands.

Traditionally, each person pays for the other's ring

Traditionally, each person pays for the other's wedding band. This custom assumes that weddings involve a bride and a groom, but modern weddings are no longer governed by gender rules of the past. Nowadays, each half of the couple is expected to pay for their other half's wedding band. This tradition is not set in stone, and there are no hard-and-fast rules.

Many couples today choose to pay for each other's wedding bands, in keeping with tradition. However, there are other ways to approach it. For example, if one person bought the engagement ring, the other might pay for both wedding bands. Alternatively, couples may choose to split the cost evenly or start a shared wedding bank account to pay for the bands.

The important thing is to have open communication about expectations, likes, and dislikes, as a wedding is often the first significant financial expenditure a couple will take on together. Being transparent about finances will go a long way toward making this a smooth process and preventing any negative feelings that could arise from such a large financial investment.

When it comes to choosing the wedding bands, most couples today go to their jeweller and pick out the bands together, with each person having the final say in their ring. The bands do not necessarily have to match, but couples may opt for complementary designs or metals to symbolise their union.

Modern couples often pay for each other's rings

Modern couples often pay for each other's wedding rings, a break from the traditional approach where the groom or his family pays for the bride's ring, and the bride or her family pays for the groom's ring. This modern approach is especially common when the couple shares finances or pays for the wedding together.

There are several ways that modern couples can approach the purchase of wedding bands. One option is for each person to pay for the other's ring, maintaining the spirit of the traditional approach while removing the gendered language. This option can make the exchange of rings on the wedding day feel more special.

Another option is to split the cost of the wedding bands evenly, especially if the couple has already combined their finances or is paying for the wedding together. This approach can be adjusted based on each person's income, rather than dividing the cost equally.

Couples can also start a shared wedding bank account to pay for the rings, or one person can pay for the wedding bands if the other person paid for the engagement ring, which is typically a more expensive purchase.

Ultimately, there is no one "right" way to decide who pays for the wedding bands. Open communication is key, and couples should decide on an approach that works best for their unique relationship and financial situation.

Some couples split the cost

While tradition has it that each person pays for the other person's ring, modern couples are doing things differently. Some couples are splitting the cost of their wedding rings, especially if they've already combined their finances or are paying for all or part of their wedding together. This doesn't necessarily mean that they contribute an equal amount to the bands, though. Dividing the total cost proportionally to individual incomes is a common practice when it comes to splitting costs as a couple.

Some couples choose to pay for the band for each other, as tradition has shown. However, there are other ways to approach it. For example, if one person bought the engagement ring, the other person may pay for each of the wedding bands.

As with most relationship situations involving money, talking it out and coming to a mutual agreement is the best course of action. Maybe you buy both the wedding rings, and your partner covers a different wedding expense. Maybe your parents chip in. Maybe you buy your own ring, and your future spouse buys theirs. It's all about what works for you, your partner, and your families.

Many couples today go to their jeweler and pick out wedding bands together, with each person having the final say in their ring. The bands will not necessarily match but will be representative of what each individual personally wants to wear as a symbol of their own style and what the ring symbolizes.

It's best to communicate openly about expectations

There are many traditions and expectations surrounding weddings, and while some couples choose to follow these, others prefer to take a more personalised approach. Wedding bands are no exception.

Open Communication is Key

When it comes to purchasing wedding bands, it is best to communicate openly about expectations. This is especially important if you and your partner have differing views on traditions or financial situations. By discussing your preferences, budget, and any family expectations, you can ensure that you are both on the same page and can make a decision that works for both of you.

Navigating Traditions

Traditionally, each person in the couple is expected to pay for the other person's wedding band. In heterosexual marriages, this often translates to the bride (or her family) buying the groom's band, while the groom (or his family) pays for the bride's. However, modern weddings are no longer bound by these gendered traditions, and many couples choose to go their own way.

Exploring Options

There are several options for purchasing wedding bands that you can consider. You could choose to buy each other's bands, make a joint purchase, or split the cost evenly. If one person bought the engagement ring, the other might pay for the wedding bands. You could also start a shared wedding account to contribute to and spend from. Ultimately, the decision is up to you as a couple, and it's important to find an arrangement that suits your unique circumstances.

Timing and Customisation

It's recommended to start shopping for wedding bands three to four months before the wedding and finalise the purchase by the six-week mark. This is especially important if you plan to customise the rings with engravings, as this can take extra time.

A Symbol of Your Union

Remember, your wedding bands are a symbol of your love and commitment to each other. It's essential to choose something that reflects your unique relationship and that you'll both love wearing every day. Whether you opt for matching bands or unique rings that reflect your individual personalities, the most important thing is that they hold meaning for you.

Frequently asked questions