Etiquette for Wedding Rings
The ring ceremony is a traditional part of many weddings. Here, the bride and groom exchange rings as a symbol of their commitment to each other. While the tradition behind the ring ceremony varies depending on the couple's culture or religion, there are some basic rules of etiquette for wedding rings. Although couples do not have to adhere to these rules, the rules serve as a helpful guide when you are selecting and wearing wedding rings.
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Purchasing the Ring
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The groom purchases his fiancee's engagement ring, and when it's time to select wedding rings, the groom pays for these rings as well. The Emily Post Institute reports that the cost of the wedding rings falls on the groom or his family, if they are helping with the wedding.
Style
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The style of the wedding rings depends on the preferences of the couple. According to WedNet, tradition calls for the bride's and groom's wedding rings to match, but modern couples do not have to follow this standard. However, couples will probably want to select rings in the same type of metal, such as yellow gold or white gold, but it is unnecessary to purchase his-and-hers ring sets. Many brides choose a wedding band that complements their engagement rings.
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Where to Wear
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Both the bride and groom wear their wedding rings on their left ring finger. If the bride is not comfortable wearing two rings on her left hand, she can choose to wear her engagement ring on her right ring finger, according to WedNet. The bride wears her wedding ring below the engagement ring, which should be closer to the knuckle.
When to Wear
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Tradition calls for the couple to wear their wedding ring at all times. However, couples interpret this tradition in a number of ways. Some people choose to wear their rings at all times, while others might take them off when they do physical work or clean. Diamonds can get caught on things, so if wearing the ring poses a hazard, then there is no reason to keep it on.
Wedding Ceremony
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During the ceremony, the bride may choose to wear her engagement ring on her right hand so that her groom can place her wedding ring on her left hand. After the ceremony, she can move the engagement ring back to the left hand, above the wedding ring.
Engraving
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Many couples choose to engrave something on their wedding rings. Although tradition does not require engraving, many couples engrave their initials or wedding date on the ring, according to WedNet. Couples can also choose to engrave a special saying or phrase that is meaningful to them.
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References
- Photo Credit rings image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
