Wedding jewelry includes the bride's rings, the groom's ring if he chooses to wear one, the bride's accessories, and perhaps the attendants' accessories. While this might seem a bit overwhelming to consider, if you take each part separately the process can be fun.
For the bride and groom, the first choice to consider in jewelry is one ring or two? Many men are now wearing wedding rings which mirror the style of the bride's ring. It is not required for men to have a ring, so this should be a mutual choice between you two. Look for a jeweler with a solid reputation and check the Better Business Bureau and your local Chamber of Commerce for references. Bridal fairs, magazines and newspapers will also give you a place to start. Ask family and friends for recommendations as well any newlyweds you know. With so many choices of stones, settings and metals, plan to shop around. You want rings which fit your lifestyle, your personalities and your budget. Pick a jeweler who can offer you solid advice and good service after your purchase. This is a personal decision and not a time for high pressure sales or shady service.
For the bride, you will want special pieces to wear with the gorgeous dress you bought. Consider the style of your dress and how you want to feel on your big day. Finding earrings, necklaces and bracelets which highlight you and your dress is important. But your wedding jewels don't have to be new. They can be the "something borrowed" if a friend splurged on the most gorgeous diamond drop earrings you have ever seen. If you have always dreamed of wearing your great grandmother's stunning gold and ruby clip ons, find a jeweler who can update them to posts or change the setting. If your husband-to-be bought you a special necklace on your trip to the Olympic National Forest, wear it with love. Pin on the Chinook Indian broach five generations of his family have worn for every wedding. Wearing a family heirloom can be a special way to honor the tradition of love in your families.
Matching earrings or necklaces with a local touch can be great attendants' gifts. These can be chosen to match the color of their dresses, with a native Washington stone, or as individual tokens of your appreciation. You don't have to purchase diamonds or rubies, simply think about each woman and buy a piece that matches who they are as a person. These can become treasured mementos of the time you all spent together on such a special day.
Wedding jewelry can entail such a large variety of choices that many brides get a bit swept up in the excitement. Plan your budget carefully, honor yourself and your fiancé, and choose a reputable jeweler. Once you get started, you will soon find yourself having a ball sifting through all the glittering options.