01684 574077
There's a lot to organise when you're planning a wedding. The venue, the flowers, the outfits, the guest list and the food all compete for your attention. With so much going on, the wedding rings can easily slip down the to-do list.
But your wedding rings are one of the few parts of the day you'll keep with you for life, so they deserve a little time and thought. Here at Parrys of Malvern, one of the questions couples ask us most is when they should start looking. So let's go through how far in advance you should buy your wedding rings, and what can affect the timing.
As a general guide, it's a good idea to start looking at wedding rings around three to four months before your wedding. This gives you plenty of time to browse, try different styles, get sized properly and allow for any ordering, adjustments or engraving without feeling rushed.
If you're planning something bespoke, or you'd like a ring shaped to fit around your engagement ring, it's worth starting even earlier, ideally six months or more before the big day.
Wedding rings come in far more styles than many people expect. There are different metals, widths, profiles and finishes to think about, from classic court-shaped bands to patterned, diamond-set and textured designs. Trying a few on is the best way to find what feels right, and that's much more enjoyable when you're not up against the clock.
Not every ring will be available in your exact size, metal and width straight away. Some rings need to be ordered in or made to your size, which takes time. Starting early means you won't have to compromise on the ring you really want.
A wedding ring should feel comfortable enough to wear every day for years to come. Getting the size right is essential, and sometimes a ring needs resizing or adjusting before it fits perfectly. Allowing time for this avoids any last-minute stress.
Many couples like to have their rings engraved with their initials, their wedding date or a short message that means something to them. Engraving is a lovely finishing touch, but it's one more step to fit in. You can find out more about our engraving service on our website.
Weddings have a habit of throwing up surprises. Starting early means that if anything needs changing or adjusting, there's time to put it right.
Some wedding rings need more time than others. It's worth starting earlier if any of these apply to you.
Bespoke wedding rings. If you'd like a ring designed especially for you, there's the design process, approval and crafting to allow for. Starting six months or more before your wedding is ideal. Our bespoke commissions service is a wonderful option if you'd like something truly one of a kind.
Shaped or fitted bands. If your engagement ring has an unusual shape or a stone that sits low, a straight wedding band may not sit flush against it. A shaped or fitted wedding ring can be designed to curve around your engagement ring, but this usually takes a little longer.
Diamond-set rings. Rings set with diamonds or other stones may need to be ordered in specific sizes and settings, so allow extra time.
Wedding season. Spring and summer are the busiest times for weddings. If your wedding falls in the peak months, it's worth getting ahead of the rush.
Your ring size isn't always the same all year round. Fingers tend to swell in warm weather and shrink in the cold, and they can change size at different times of day too. If you're getting married in summer but being sized in winter, it's worth mentioning this so your ring can be sized to suit.
It's also best to be sized by a jeweller rather than guessing at home, as width makes a difference. A wider band often needs to be slightly larger than a narrow one to feel comfortable.
It doesn't have to match perfectly in style, but it's a good idea to choose a wedding ring in the same metal as your engagement ring. Rings worn side by side rub against each other, and if one metal is harder than the other, the softer ring can wear down over time.
If you're choosing between metals, you might find our guide to platinum vs white gold for an engagement ring helpful.
| Time before the wedding | What to do |
|---|---|
| 6 months or more | Start looking if you'd like bespoke or shaped rings |
| 3 to 4 months | Browse, try on styles and choose your rings |
| 2 to 3 months | Place your order, confirm sizes and arrange engraving |
| 4 to 6 weeks | Collect your rings and try them on to check the fit |
| The week before | Hand your rings to your best man, maid of honour or ring bearer |
Wedding rings are both valuable and irreplaceable in sentimental terms. Once you've bought them, it's worth making sure they're covered by your insurance. If you need an insurance valuation, we offer professional jewellery valuations in store.
Parrys of Malvern is an independent, family-run jeweller at 115 Church Street, in the heart of Great Malvern. Since 1952, we've helped generations of local couples choose the rings they'll wear for the rest of their lives.
Our handpicked collection of wedding and engagement rings is chosen for quality, appearance and flair. We also offer a free wedding ring consultation, where you can share your ideas and preferences with our experienced team and get expert advice without any pressure.
If you're planning your wedding, visit us at Parrys of Malvern, 115 Church Street, Malvern, WR14 2AJ. We're open Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am to 4.15pm. You can also call us on 01684 574077 or get in touch online.
Book your free wedding ring consultation and let's find the rings you'll love for a lifetime.
