Bridal Buzz

Thanks to Matthew Trent for answering this week’s reader question:

I’m interested in designing a wedding band for my fiancé, but I don’t know the first thing about this process. What are some helpful things to help me along the way?

Often times, the design of a wedding band is an afterthought—it becomes all function and no form. While many men are fine with this, others want more in a ring but don’t want the design to be too over-the-top.

A great way to get started is to observe your fiancé and what he surrounds himself with. What is his lifestyle? Aside from a watch does he wear other jewelry? Take notice of what he comments on or points out in magazine. No matter what the item is, it will help give you a deeper insight into his style and preferences. This will also help you discover what he does not like, which is just as important as it will help you narrow the options.

When deciding on a designer, it’s important to explore your options and meet with several designers who interest you. You want to feel comfortable throughout the design process, and it is important that your needs, wants, and ideas are understood. I always recommend working with someone who not only has experience, but can also provide you with drawings and eventually a 3D model for you to see before you commit to the final execution of the design. This may or may not be the same person who designed your engagement ring.

Selecting and designing a wedding band should be a fun process that should not take months and months to be completed. A custom ring will generally cost a bit more than something off the rack, but the time and personal element invested in a custom design will be meaningful and well worth it. The goal is to create and present a piece you put your heart into, however complicated or simple.