Getting engaged is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful trying to plan a wedding while sticking to a budget. One question many brides ask is: can I use my engagement ring as my wedding ring too?
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about engagement rings doubling as wedding rings.
We’ll look at the pros and cons, traditions, costs, and alternatives so you can decide if using one ring for both purposes is right for you.
Is It Acceptable to Use Your Engagement Ring as Your Wedding Ring?
It’s completely acceptable to use your engagement ring as your wedding ring as well. Many brides opt for this route because it saves money and the engagement ring already holds sentimental value.
Some couples like the symbolism of one ring marking both the engagement and marriage. If you love your engagement ring and want to keep wearing it, go for it!
Just check with your partner first to make sure they agree. While not all couples follow the tradition of getting a second ring, what matters most is that you both feel happy with whatever rings you exchange at your wedding.
Traditions and Etiquette Around Engagement Rings Becoming Wedding Rings
There are some traditions and etiquette to consider when deciding if your engagement ring will also be your wedding ring. While it’s perfectly acceptable, some couples prefer to exchange new rings at the wedding for symbolic reasons. This dates back to when betrothal and marriage involved separate rings.
Another factor is the style – some engagement rings are ornate or have protruding diamonds that may make them uncomfortable for daily wear. Etiquette says you should check with your partner before assuming your engagement ring will double as a wedding ring. Some prefer picking out new rings together to mark the marriage.
Discuss your thoughts and goals openly. There’s no right or wrong way – what matters is finding an option you both feel good about.
Reasons Why Some Brides Choose to Use One Ring
Using your engagement ring as your wedding ring can be a meaningful choice for several reasons. Some brides want to daily wear a ring symbolizing both the engagement and marriage.
For others, it reduces costs associated with buying another ring. Using one ring can also hold sentimental value by representing the entire relationship journey.
Some engagement rings have intricate designs or personalized details, making brides want to continue wearing them. Choosing a single ring streamlines decisions and coordinating jewelry.
And for a practical standpoint, reducing to one ring means less chance of losing one. Ultimately, it’s a personal choice each bride must make based on her priorities and preferences.
Tips for Styling Your Engagement Ring as Your Wedding Ring
If you decide to use your engagement ring as your wedding ring, you may want to give it a fresh look for the big day. Consider resetting the center stone higher to visually change the setting.
You can also add diamond accents along the band for extra sparkle. Another option is to have side stones changed to a contrasting metal, like rose gold. For vintage rings, updating the prongs can make the center stone appear larger.
If your engagement ring has a solitaire setting, adding a diamond eternity band attached to the ring can give it a bridal feel.
And don’t forget to get your ring professionally cleaned before the wedding for maximum shine. With small tweaks, your engagement ring can look like a completely different piece of jewelry.
Options for Customizing Your Engagement Ring for Your Wedding
If you want to transform your engagement ring into a wedding ring, there are many customization options. Consider adding more diamonds or other gemstones to the band to make it more elaborate.
You can also have the band redesigned to fit your style, like changing the metal or adding engraving.
If you want a different look, resetting the center stone in a new setting can completely change the style. For vintage rings, you may want to update the setting and have the prongs reinforced so the center stone is secure.
Don’t be afraid to dream up your ideal design – your jeweler can likely create whatever you envision. Just make sure to discuss your budget beforehand. With some creativity, your engagement ring can get a makeover to be unique on your wedding day.
Should You Switch Your Engagement Ring to Your Right Hand?
Once you get married, you may be wondering what to do with your engagement ring. Some brides choose to wear it on their right hand along with the wedding band on their left.
This allows you to keep wearing it without having a stacked look. If you prefer minimalist style, wearing your engagement ring on the right hand can be a good option.
Some women move their engagement ring to their right hand before the wedding ceremony, keeping the left hand ring finger open for the wedding band. There’s no wrong way to wear your rings! It’s up to you and what feels comfortable. Consider your personal style and job.
The right hand position keeps your engagement ring safe if your job involves using your hands frequently. Do what feels right for you when it comes to wearing your engagement ring on your wedding day and beyond.
Buying a Separate Wedding Band to Go with Your Engagement Ring
Many brides opt to buy a separate wedding band to wear with their engagement ring. This allows you to pick a band that complements your engagement ring style.
For example, if you have a solitaire diamond engagement ring, you may want a simple, thin wedding band. Or you could choose a contoured band that fits nicely against the engagement ring.
If your engagement ring has side stones, look for a wedding band with a cut-out design to showcase the stones. Don’t be afraid to mix metal colors and band widths either.
Play around with different looks before deciding. You want something that looks cohesive but not overly matched. And remember to buy your wedding band well in advance of the big day to allow for resizing and other alterations. Finding the perfect companion to your engagement ring takes time but is part of the fun!
How to Incorporate Your Engagement Ring Into Your Wedding Day Look
Your engagement ring will likely be a focal point on your wedding day. Here are some tips for showcasing this special piece of jewelry:
- If your engagement ring is ornate or has a large center stone, opt for a simple wedding band that won’t compete. A plain metal band allows your e-ring to take center stage.
- Play up the sparkle by keeping other jewelry minimal. Avoid bracelets or necklaces that will distract from your rings. Simple stud earrings work best.
- Get your ring professionally cleaned right before the wedding so it’s extra shiny for photos.
- Draw attention to your ring finger with your bouquet hold. Ask your florist to arrange flowers so your left hand is visible.
- During portraits, don’t be shy about showing off your ring. Extend your left hand, or place it gently under your chin.
- If you get a French manicure, ask for an extra clear coat of polish on your ring finger so the diamond pops.
- With a few small styling tricks, your engagement ring can be an elegant detail in your bridal look.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Your Engagement Ring After the Wedding
After you tie the knot, you may be wondering what to do with your beloved engagement ring. Here are some ideas for giving it new life:
- Turn it into a necklace. A jeweler can attach your center stone to a delicate chain or pendant. Wear your e-ring close to your heart.
- Stack it with your wedding band. Slide your engagement ring and wedding band together on one finger for an eclectic, layered look.
- Charm bracelet. Remove the center stone and use the setting as a charm on a bracelet. Add other charms that symbolize your relationship.
- Ring holder. Mount your e-ring on a decorative stand to keep on your dresser. It becomes a beautiful piece of home decor.
- Gift it. Consider passing your ring down to a daughter or niece who may cherish it someday. What a meaningful heirloom.
With a little creativity, your engagement ring can take on a new purpose. It represents a special chapter in your love story to treasure in new ways.
People Also Asked (FAQs)
Do you need a wedding ring if you have an engagement ring?
No, you do not need a wedding ring if you already have an engagement ring. Some couples opt to just have one ring that serves as both the engagement and wedding ring.
What happens to engagement ring after marriage?
Typically, the engagement ring becomes part of the wedding set after marriage. Some brides move the engagement ring to the right hand, and wear only the wedding band on the left. Others stack their engagement ring and wedding band together on the left hand.
Can you wear an engagement ring as a regular ring?
Yes, you can absolutely wear your engagement ring as a regular ring even after getting married. There are no rules saying you must stop wearing your engagement ring. Many women continue to wear their engagement ring on their right hand.
Can any ring be considered a wedding ring?
While any ring can be used in a wedding ceremony, traditional wedding rings often have a plain, simple band and are made of precious metals like gold, platinum, or silver. However, non-traditional wedding rings may have stones, engravings, and be made of other materials.
Conclusion
Engagement rings and wedding rings serve different purposes, but can sometimes be the same ring. While wedding rings symbolize the marriage union, engagement rings symbolize the promise to get married. Some couples use one ring for both the engagement and wedding to save costs. And an engagement ring can still be worn as a regular ring, even after marriage. So in many cases, an engagement ring can also serve as the wedding ring. The key point is that any ring can be a wedding ring as long as it holds significance for the couple.