You already spent time and money finding the perfect engagement ring, picking out your own wedding might seem daunting. But fear not, we’ve got your back! Part of the fun of planning a wedding is making it personal to you and your partner. There are myriad ways opportunities throughout the process to add those special accents. From the big picture to the nitty gritty details, every choice is personal. While the fashion and décor are just some ways to personalize your wedding, this article will focus on how to create a custom wedding band that you’ll love to show off. Whether it’s for you, your partner, or a set, we’ll discuss the benefits of going this route, what the process is like, and how to find the right ring expert for your vision.
The first question we can shed light on is why you might want to get a custom ring at all. With so many options available in person and online the options are there. You may even enjoy the search, fantasizing about what it would look like and being happy to wear it the rest of your life. Or, you may have something special in mind. Maybe it’s an inside joke with your partner and the options come close but aren’t quite right. Or maybe you just have a type A personality. Whatever the reason, there are benefits to going with an expert in this field.
Unlike the other aspects of a wedding, the ring is what you’ll wear regularly if not daily, to express your commitment to your spoiuse. With all the options available it can be exhausting and time consuming to choose a ring. But, if you have a vision in mind and are pickier than most, a custom ring may be the way to go. The pros include working with an expert to create your dream wedding band, personalizing it to your relationship, getting exactly what you paid for, and creative freedom. Working with an expert allows you to have an extra set of eyes, which never hurts. They will be able to advise you on trends, dos and don’ts, and what would enhance it or make it look cheap. It is prudent to let them guide you through the process.Ty Wilson, Co-Founder of CustomMade, says that going custom means you’re creating “a better quality ring over the mass-produced options out there. Because of this, your ring will withstand the normal wear and tear and will save you money in the long run since you won’t have to repair or replace as often.”
The options are literally limited by your imagination. You can add a precious stone that has meaning to you and your partner, or a rock from where you proposed, create a unique design, and even engrave it. You can have their fingerprint inside instead of engraved. You can also be sure that you will never see the same rings anywhere else. That’s the ultimate wedding personalization. Let’s take a look at how the process works, so you have a better idea of what’s involved.
Various brick and mortar stores can accommodate custom wedding bands, so call ahead to make a consultation. Some stores even offer custom engagement rings and will keep the file so you can match the wedding band to what you already have.
The average range for custom bands can be difficult because it depends on the work involved. It can range from $500-$6000 so be very clear about your budget and transparent with your ring designer. Be mindful that your ring designer wants to deliver a product you’ll love so it’s especially important to be clear in your own head when you are communicating what you want. Remember, they are professionals, so if they suggest that something might not work, then heed their advice and try to compromise. Also understand that they work on multiple projects at the same time so hit may be a back and forth depending on what is involved with your vision.
The last thing you’ll want is to spend the dough on something special and be disappointed with the outcome. Whether it’s a bad fit with the engagement ring, uncomfortable to wear regularly, or several other problems that can translate from theory to practice, communication is crucial for this project.
Manlybands.com or Etsy for online are great places to start. There is no end to the options, but again, it’s time to research and shop around. With a little leg work you can find the right mix of experience and value. Check their ratings and reviews and make sure that they can be available to communicate. Ask about returns, exchanges, and cancellations if it’s not already present. Make sure to be clear on shipping dates and allow plenty of time for any hiccups to be resolved.
Generally, online you will fill out a request and someone will get back to you within 48 hours. You will share your vision and they will provide a quote for what it might cost to execute your design. You will then approve the ring and possibly pay at this time. Sizing checks will happen around this time as well. And then you sit back and wait a few weeks (average about six), until your ring is ready. Some stores even offer a 3D tool to see your ring so make sure to check if this option is available.
Consider your budget first and foremost. You’ll want to find the right mix for your needs. If money is not an issue, then you’ll want the most experienced professional with the highest ratings. They will likely be able to use more kinds of materials and have a wider variety of options. Want to put your partner’s heartbeat on the design? Go wild.
If you do have a budget, then be upfront about it to any ring designers or companies. Sometimes they have a minimum, or can’t use certain materials under a fixed amount. So, if Tungsten or wood is the only material you will consider, read the fine print, and be upfront in your request. Etsy typically has reasonably priced custom items. For reference, a set of two durable plain silver bands can be as low as $100 before the warranty.
Keep in mind that this is a collaboration. Expert does not mean mind reader. If you can’t communicate the basics with your ring designer, then they probably won’t be able to create the design of your dreams. A little vetting in this area can go a long way for results.
Keep an open mind within your vision and if someone says they can’t accommodate your request it’s always ok to get another opinion. Not everyone can do everything regardless of how talented they may be. It’s much like getting a tattoo; this isn’t a decision you should rush into and it’s worth it to take time and find the right artist.
Now, for one last option that’s a little outside of the box for custom wedding bands. It is, of course, a DIY band.
Ok, Ron Swanson, this is your time to shine. If you have the tools and the know-how, there are tutorials and step by step guides online to help you create your very own custom wedding band for you or your partner, or both. Even though you may be in your wheelhouse, research is always a good idea. Measure twice, cut once, as they say. If wax sprues and casting flasks mean anything, then this may be the option for you.
This would be ideal for someone who has experience and is on a budget. Or you have a 3D printer and have been looking for projects. This way, you can create exactly what you desire without the go between, just make sure that you really do have enough experience. Let’s avoid the ER and keep all our fingers where they belong, eh? Can’t wear a ring if you cut off its home.
Hopefully you have a better idea of the benefits of going the custom ring route. Most importantly is the creative personalization to declare your unique love. We have provided some places to start your search as well as what to do when you find a designer that speaks to you. As with any kind of wedding band, don’t skimp on the warranty. For something that should last a lifetime, make the investment that it deserves. Include this in your budget when you start. Don’t forget to shop around. It can be tempting to go with the first place that catches your eye. But stay focused and methodical as this will be something you see constantly. You can always get them redone for a later anniversary, but for the effort make it count. And of course, make sure to remember them on your big day. For all this planning and investment, get those pictures, gentlemen! Now it’s time to show up and show out with the custom ring you love.
