Who Buys the Wedding Band? A Quick Look at Etiquette and Options

LISA

Krikawa Key points:

• There’s no universal rule: couples decide who buys the wedding band based on what works for them.
• Traditional etiquette had each partner buying the other’s ring, but today, splitting costs or joint purchases are more common.
• LGBTQIA+ and non-traditional couples often create their own ring-buying traditions, designing or purchasing bands together.
• Custom rings often feel like a shared investment, making collaboration key to deciding who pays.
• Open communication about finances, timelines, and preferences is essential to a smooth ring-buying experience.

You’re planninga wedding, and everything seems like chaos. There’s the guest lists and cake tastings, clothing shopping and try-ons, tailoring appointments and more—and suddenly a straightforward yet essential question pops up amid all of this: who buys the wedding band?

This is a timeless query, and in today’s modern world, it ultimately depends on the couple. In this quick guide, we’ll unpack traditional etiquette, contemporary trends, and thoughtful ways you as a couple can approach this decision together.

What Traditional Wedding Band Etiquette Says

Historically, wedding customs were far more rigid. Traditionally, the groom purchased the bride’s wedding band, and the bride either bought the groom’s ring or his wedding gift in exchange. This reciprocal gesture often symbolizes commitments and mutual respect.

But times have changed. With marriage and family dynamics changing, it’s no longer just about who buys the wedding rings by gender or role—it’s about partnership and what makes sense for your relationship.

Who Buys the Wedding Bands Today?

Today, there’s growing recognition and understanding that there's no one-size-fits-all answer that works. Some couples still follow tradition; others split the costs, or one partner may cover both bands. The key is open communication. Here are some of the most common approaches:

1. Each Buys the Other’s Band

• Romantic and symbolic
• Keeps the spirit of gifting alive

2. Shared Purchase

• Ideal for couples with joint finances
• Helps ensure both rings fit within the wedding budget

 3. One Person Pays for Both

• Common when one partner has a higher income or took on the engagement ring expense
• Works well in long-term financial partnerships

No matter what you choose, the real win is making this decision together.

What About Us? Non-Traditional Couples

You don’t need to fit into any bride-or-groom mold, and you may be wondering, who buys the wedding band in our case? The great news: you get to define your own traditions. In fact, many LGBTQIA+ couples find delight and joy in designing or buying their wedding bands together. Whether you split the cost, gift each other, or one person covers both, what matters most is mutual agreement, intention, and this glorious journey you are about to go on with one another.

How to Decide: A Step-by-Step Conversation

Still feeling a bit anxious or unsure about how to bring the topic up? Here’s a simple guide:

1. Start the Conversation Early

• Mention it when discussing wedding budgets or timelines.

2. Talk About Financial Comfort Levels

• Are you combining finances?
• Do you want to split the cost or surprise each other?

3. Align on Ring Styles and Budget

• Do you want matching designs or unique looks?
• Are you going custom or choosing from ready-to-wear collections?

4. Shop or Design Together

• Many couples now design rings as a shared experience, which can also clarify who will buy wedding bands in a way that feels fair.

What About Custom Wedding Rings?

When couples opt for customized wedding rings, they often ask us: Does it change who should buy the wedding bands? And the answer is: not necessarily, but the collaborative nature of custom design can make the purchase feel more like a shared investment—and a chance to ensure the rings are exactly what both of you envision.

At Krikawa, every ring is made from scratch, with no off-the-shelf shortcuts. That means each design is tailored to yourpreferences, budget, needs, and timeline. We offer virtual consultations, shipped ring sizers, and sample kits to make the entire process as easy as possible, even for our clients who are long-distance.

Additional Considerations to Note:

• Budgeting: Wedding bands can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Having a candid talk about your budget before choosing who buys the wedding band will help avoid surprises later on.
• Timelines: Custom rings often take 8-12 weeks. Planning early is crucial, especially when coordinating multiple purchases.
• Surprise Factor: Some couples prefer an element of surprise. If you’re planning to gift a band to your partner, be sure to gather their ring size and design preferences discreetly.

Quick Krikawa Recap:

1. Who buys the wedding band?

A: Anyone can buy the wedding band—there’s no rule. Some couples split the cost, others gift each other, or one partner pays for both.

2. Who buys wedding bands in non-traditional or LGBTQIA+ relationships?

A: It’s entirely up to you as a couple. Many LGBTQIA+ partners design and buy their wedding bands together or agree on what’s fair.

3. Shouldn’t each person buy the other’s wedding band?

A: Yes—if it feels meaningful to you and your relationship. Exchanging rings as gifts is symbolic, but it is just as fine to split the cost or handle it jointly.

4. Is there any modern etiquette for who buys the wedding rings?

A: Modern etiquette says couples decide together. Tradition matters less than what works for you, your relationship, and your budget.

5. Do custom wedding bands or rings change who buys the band?

A: Not usually. Custom rings often lead to shared decisions, so many couples view it as a mutual investment rather than a solo purchase.

Create Your Own Rules and Traditions: There’s No Wrong Answer

Whether you’re asking who buys the wedding band or who buys the wedding bands in plural, the best answer is always going to be the one that aligns with your values and vision as a couple. Forget rigid rules and traditions if they don’t suit you and focus instead on what makes your relationship strong and beautiful every day: honesty, collaboration, and shared celebration.

If you’re tired of cookie-cutter bands and rings and have dreamed of something more, Krikawa is here to help with wedding bands that reflect your one-of-a-kind journey.

Explore our handcrafted, exceptional collection to inspire you today, and know that you are never limited to what you see!

Our designers are here to help you bring your ideas to life. Reach out to us and custom-design a wedding band unlike any others.

After all, these rings, like your commitment to each other, are forever.