Which Comes First the Engagement Ring Or Wedding Band?

From the moment you say, “Yes!”, you can’t wait to show off your engagement ring. Once a wedding band is added into the mix, you might be wondering how to wear your engagement ring and wedding band together. We often hear these types of questions from soon-to-be brides. Is there a right way to wear your wedding rings? What do I wear first the engagement ring or the wedding band?! These questions are all answered below with our guide explaining how to wear your engagement ring and wedding band.

Customary Engagement Ring Traditions

In most Western cultures it’s customary to place your engagement ring on the ring finger of your left hand. According to legend, it was believed that an important vein—called the vein of love—runs from the left ring finger directly to the heart. Wearing your engagement ring on that hand is a romantic tradition showing your loved one is close to your heart always. We love that!

It’s The Big Day, Now What?

Up until the wedding day, you’ve had your engagement ring on your left hand without the worry of a band. But now it’s time to exchange vows and also exchange wedding rings, so what do you do with your engagement ring?

Many brides place their engagement ring on their right hand or some even leave it safely at home while the ceremony is taking place. This makes it easier to smoothly place your breathtaking wedding band on your left hand, without having to worry about taking off the engagement ring or putting both rings on in a particular order. Of course, if you’re comfortable (and maybe practiced a bit beforehand) you could elect to keep that dazzling sparkler on your left hand where it’s been since you first slipped it on.

Wearing The Rings After The Ceremony

Traditionally, the wedding band is placed first on the left ring finger and then the engagement ring is placed on top of it. The wedding band symbolizes the bonded commitment between you and your partner, so wearing it first keeps the ring closest to the heart.

Modern Rules for the Modern Bride

Even though there are conventional ways to wear both bridal rings, there are essentially no rules for how you choose to wear them after the ceremony. It completely depends on your personal taste!

If you decide, for instance, that you’re more comfortable wearing your engagement ring first with your wedding band on the outside then bravo! Your confidence looks good on you.

Stray From Tradition

Some brides choose to customize their engagement ring or wedding band so the rings fit together in harmony, even going so far as having them soldered together as one solid piece. Others have decided to stack multiple wedding bands to create a nested look surrounding the engagement ring.

If your engagement ring and wedding band don’t fit comfortably together, you have the option of wearing the wedding ring on any finger you like! This is a popular option for those who want a glamorous wedding band that deserves a spotlight of its own.

A Little Help From Your Friends at Azzi Jewelers

Overall deciding how to wear your engagement ring and wedding band is completely up to you. If you have yet to purchase a wedding band, visit our Lansing jewelry store to browse an impressive selection of bridal jewelry from the industry’s most sought-after designers. We can’t wait to help you search! Discover the perfect ring at Azzi Jewelers today.