When you get into wedding-planning mode, you have a lot of important decisions to make. Big or small guest list? Traditional or alternative ceremony? Band or DJ? Chocolate or vanilla cake?
As you delve deeper into this list, you run the risk of becoming overwhelmed by too many choices and burning out.
Don't let shopping for your wedding jewelry become a symptom of the problem. Note the warning signs at each stage of this cycle:
Excitement: Yay! We're getting married. This is so amazing. We're going to wear these rings forever as a symbol of our love, and it's going to be perfect.
Wonder: Wow, there sure are a lot of choices. Look at this store! And this ring! And this one! There are just so many options.
Overload: THERE ARE JUST SO MANY OPTIONS. WHY ARE THERE SO MANY OPTIONS.
Apathy: I guess I like that one. Sure, round-cut is fine. White gold, yeah. Whatever, let's just make a decision and get some food.
Exhaustion and Eventual Purchase: Yayyyy...
This is definitely not the experience you want when going ring shopping. Here are 8 tips for making this process simpler, more affordable and a lot more fun.
1. Buy online.
Going into an actual store is much more of a production than, say, browsing wedding jewelry from your phone or tablet on the couch on a Sunday afternoon.
When you shop online, you can look at a much wider selection than most stores have in stock. Plus, you can stay in your PJs.
2. Read the fine print.
Do your homework before committing to an online store, and be wary of online stores without clear policies.
Does the store offer a certificate of authenticity? What's its return policy? Does it offer free shipping or any other perks?
3. Read reviews.
This is important if you're buying wedding jewelry from an online or retail store. Read customer reviews on the company's website, Yelp, Google Plus or other resources.
Pay attention to what customers love about their rings. Do they value the same criteria you do? Be wary of any complaints or red flags that might be deal breakers for you.
4. Buy ring sets.
A little-known fact about wedding jewelry shopping is that you can save a significant amount when you buy rings in sets. For example, our trio ring sets – which include an engagement ring, plus two wedding bands – are beautifully matched and can save you up to 65% off retail prices.
We also offer flexible plans, including our She Said Yes! special that allows you to buy an engagement ring first, then pick out matching wedding bands later on for a 10% discount.
5. Have a style in mind.
You might be browsing trio ring sets and immediately fall in love with "the one," but usually it's best to have a few ideas of styles you're looking for.
By narrowing the options in advance, you'll spend less time searching through rings you have no interest in. Plus, it'll push you and your partner to define what you actually like and dislike.
6. Set a budget.
It's a good policy to set a range of how much you're willing to spend before you start looking (and fall in love with something you can't afford!). Have a discussion about it as a couple, and settle on a ballpark figure you're both comfortable with.
7. Find a flexible payment plan.
It's understandable if you're not prepared to pay for your wedding jewelry all in one go. Look for a store that offers a flexible payment plan that will meet your financial needs.
My Trio Rings' payment plan, for example, is totally customizable. You set the schedule, and there are no fees or deposits.
8. Fall in love.
Just like picking your perfect match in a relationship, you want to fall head over heels with your rings before you commit. You'll know when you can't wipe that dopey grin off your face.
Browse our stunning trio rings sets