Matching wedding bands for the bride and groom are making a comeback.
True, this choice isn't for everyone, and some people prefer to select a unique wedding band for themself that expresses their individual personality.
But for others, opting for a pair of wedding bands that match is another way to symbolize a couple’s union and the lives they will be sharing.
Do Wedding Bands Need to Match?
If you haven't had an opportunity to see matching wedding bands, also known as couple wedding bands or paired wedding rings, the bride’s and the groom’s wedding bands are not necessarily identical.
Instead, these wedding ring sets complement one another: They feature the same metals, stones, and colors.
If this idea intrigues you, you can find more details below, along with tips on selecting rings that not only match one another but also your tastes and budget.
Does the Groom Buy Both Rings?
Wondering who buys the groom’s ring or if couples pick wedding rings together? When it comes to selecting wedding rings, there are no hard rules on who should purchase them.
Traditionally, the groom will buy the bride's engagement ring and wedding band while the bride will buy the groom's wedding band. However, more couples today are breaking from tradition and shopping for rings together.
The Appeal of Wedding Rings that Match
Why opt for matching wedding bands? It can be a meaningful way to express your shared journey ahead.
Coordinating your rings helps tell the story of your relationship and provides a physical reminder of your love and partnership.
Bands that match also can showcase unity on the wedding day and in everyday life.
For many couples, these ring sets represent the start of a new chapter, visually cementing their changed relationship status.
Beginning Your Search
When searching for the perfect wedding bands for the two of you, keep the following tips in mind.
Cost Considerations
First, set a budget that works for both of you.
The price of wedding rings can vary greatly depending on several key factors. First, the metal you choose will affect the cost significantly. Precious metals like platinum and gold are the most expensive, while silver, tungsten, and stainless steel are more budget-friendly options. The karat or purity of the gold also impacts the price. 24K gold is the purest and priciest. 14K and 18K gold offer an alloyed mix that is less expensive.
The style and intricacy of the wedding band design are additional cost determinants. Simple unadorned bands are generally cheaper than highly detailed rings with multiple stones or embellishments. The number, cut, clarity, color, and carat size of any diamonds or gemstones will drive up the price as well. Larger center stones and multiple smaller accent stones increase the overall cost.
You'll also want to consider the brand and jeweler you purchase from. Well-known designers and luxury jewelry retailers charge more compared to online vendors or independent local jewelers. Custom-designed rings usually cost more than pre-made options too. Extra engraving or resizing services can add to the total price.
Talk About Your Preferences
Next, have an open conversation about the style you both envision. Look through inspiration images online, on social media sites like Facebook and Pinterest, or in magazines, and talk about your preferences in metal, width, and embellishments.
You should also talk about the number of rings the bride will wear: Some opt to wear an engagement ring, a wedding band, and a third ring that celebrates the couple’s first year together, a child, or a shared future.
(You may be wondering how to keep three rings together. One solution is to use ring guards, which prevent rings from knocking into one another or moving.)
In any case, if your tastes differ significantly, you can always opt for wedding band sets that share a common element, like a type of metal or a stone, but have their own styles.
Do Your Research
It's wise to research options thoroughly before purchasing. Explore jewelry stores together and shop around virtually to get a sense of what's out there. Don't feel pressured into making a decision. Take your time, weighing the pros and cons of different metals and designs.
More on Metals
When choosing metal for your wedding rings, there are a few key considerations.
Gold is prized for its beautiful yellow tone and longevity. Yellow gold or white gold alloys (mixed with silver or nickel) reduce cost, but may cause skin reactions for those with allergies.
Rose gold is another option that offers a unique romantic hue. An alloy of gold and copper, rose gold gets its warm reddish-pink tone from the copper content. Compared to yellow and white gold, rose gold is trendier and a bit more affordable. The pinkish color is flattering on many skin tones and ideal for those who want a wedding band that stands out.
Platinum rings are extremely durable, naturally silver-white, and hypoallergenic but come with a higher price tag.
Silver is affordably priced, but requires more maintenance since it tarnishes over time.
Palladium offers customers a more affordable alternative to platinum. Tungsten and titanium are budget-friendly metals praised for strength and scratch resistance, but resizing these contemporary metals can prove tricky.
For green-minded couples, recycled metals are a sustainable option. Rings made from antique gold or reused materials reduce environmental impact.
Vermeil rings have a sterling silver base plated with gold for shine.
A Note About Ring Sizes
As you're doing your research, take the time to make sure you know what your ring sizes are.
You'll want to get sized properly so your rings will fit comfortably and won't require resizing. Schedule ring sizing as one of your first appointments when shopping together. Most jewelry stores offer complimentary sizing. The jeweler will use a thin metal sizer to determine your current size. For the most accuracy, they may measure both your ring and middle finger.
If visiting a jeweler isn’t feasible, you can print a free plastic ring sizer online to measure at home. Slide different sizer strips through the opening until one fits snugly without constricting. Measure the circular sizer opening with a ruler to determine your approximate size. Keep in mind your ring size may fluctuate slightly over time or in different seasons.
Trying on potential wedding bands gives you the best sense of fit. Pay attention to comfort and ensure the band moves smoothly along your finger but does not slip off easily. A properly fitted band should feel secure without feeling too tight.
The Final Stretch
Once you've narrowed down the selection, schedule appointments to see the potential rings in person.
Try them on and pay close attention to comfort and visual appeal. Engravings inside the rings can be a nice touch, but make sure the text aligns with your style.
Team Effort
Remember, you'll wear these rings every day, so choose something meaningful that excites you both.
With teamwork and good communication, you'll be able to select wedding bands that reflect your love story.
Roger Igo is the founder and CEO of special events venue, The Bell Tower on 34th, which delivers weddings and corporate events. He is the author of “Keep On Going, The History of The Bell Tower on 34th,” a former radio host, a graduate of CEO Space International, and an alumnus of The Disney Institute.