When you become engaged, you get to wear a beautiful diamond ring on your finger. But the ring shopping doesn’t stop there. You still need to get a wedding band.

For women, wedding bands are meant to complement the engagement ring. This means there are finer details that need to be considered.

For men, on the other hand, you have a lot more flexibility. We’ll take a look at some helpful tips when shopping for wedding rings for each person. 

Wedding Bands for Women

1. Metal Bands

The most classic type of wedding band is the metal band. There are no additional stones and it is a simple, plain ring. This will allow the engagement ring to be the center of attention, providing only a small accent. The metal band’s timeless elegance makes it a versatile choice that pairs well with any engagement ring style, ensuring a cohesive and balanced look. Its simplicity also symbolizes purity and commitment, which aligns perfectly with the values of a wedding ceremony. Just like selecting the perfect ring, planning the celebration itself often involves careful decisions, such as consulting a typical wedding menu guide to ensure every detail reflects the couple’s unique tastes and preferences.

Metal bands usually come in:

• White gold
• Yellow gold
• Rose gold
• Titanium
• Silver
• Stainless steel
• Platinum

Platinum and titanium are usually the easiest to maintain throughout the years. They are also less prone to scratching. However, it completely depends on your budget and desired style.

2. Pavé Bands

If you want a wedding ring that is a little more intricate than a typical metal band, then you may want to consider buying a pavé band instead.

These types of bands will feature small diamonds along the curve of the ring. Sometimes they go all the way around. Other times they only go about halfway. 

3. Notched Bands

Notched wedding bands are a popular choice when you want to pair the band with an engagement ring to look like a puzzle piece. These are often made to match one another.

The band has an actual notch around the front where the diamond engagement ring will sit. This will keep the stone in place and keep the rings from shifting on the finger.

These types of bands will have diamonds that go around the ring to match the style of the engagement ring.

Wedding Bands For Men

1. Select A Style

The same types of metals are used in men’s rings as women’s rings, but the styles are a bit different.

The classic band sits flat around the ring finger and is usually a plain metal with the occasional texture, if desired. The dome or curved band is found to be the more traditional type of wedding band that curves along the edges for more comfort.

However, some men like to add a bit of flair to their rings by adding diamonds or gemstones as an accent.

2. Decide On The Width

Men’s engagement rings differ from women’s as they usually come in a variety of widths. The average width is about 6 mm, but can also range anywhere from 2 mm to 10 mm.

The wider a band, the more expensive it can become. Think about your budget as well as the style you like best. Remember, the thicker your band, the more uncomfortable it could be on your finger.

3. Choose A Finish

One of the final decisions will be the finish of the ring. The type of metal you choose might determine what finish would suit the ring best. Some of the more popular choices of finish include:

• High polish
• Satin
• Matte
• Brushed
• Hammered
• Sandblasted

4. Consider Something Unique

There are many unique variations of men’s wedding bands that have come onto the market. Some companies use redwood to line the inside. Others even have fossilized dinosaur bones carved into them.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun when choosing your wedding band if something unique speaks to you.

Conclusion

When selecting the right wedding band for you and your partner, it’s most important to think about what you want to wear for a lifetime. Consider your personal style, daily activities, and how the band will complement your overall look. The right choice should not only symbolize your commitment but also pair seamlessly with the best wedding shoes and outfits you’ve chosen for the big day. Remember, your wedding band is a reflection of your unique journey together, so take the time to find one that truly resonates with you both.

For some, it may be a simple metal band that allows the engagement ring to be the star of the show. For others, you may want a unique carbon fiber band made from an old whiskey barrel.At the end of the day, it needs to be timeless rather than something that’s only meant for a wedding photo on social media.