Engagement rings are one of the most expensive and stressful purchases during wedding planning. A surprise proposal is always dreamy and romantic. But reality check — a marriage is a financial partnership too! And it starts with that proposal with the engagement ring. So, after you secure the big ‘Yes,’ it’s time to talk to your partner about the planning and budget, including buying the ceremonial engagement rings. Here’s a step-by-step budget guide to help you out.
Figure Out Who’s Paying
It’s the first step in the task before jumping on any other shiny details. No matter how awkward it seems, having a frank conversation with your partner regarding the engagement rings is a must. Figure out who’ll foot the bill, as it’s very crucial to determine the budget. Will it be a 50-50 split? Will the rings be gifts from respective partners? Will any family heirloom or family money be involved? These are the main questions you’ll need to be clear on.
Calculate the Specific Budget
Once you’re clear about who’s paying, settle the budget. Come up with a number together with your partner that won’t hurt any party’s wallet immediately or even in the long run. Experts suggest making a list of things that’ll cost a significant amount of money in the next one to two years of your married life, like a destination wedding, your honeymoon, saving for a home, etc. Then you can decide a figure to spend on your engagement rings that won’t upset those big ticket items.
Do Your Research and Shop Local
You need to find a trusted place to purchase your engagement rings. You can ask your family, friends, and coworkers or do the research by yourself. Try a wholesale diamond seller or a local jeweler, as such spots generally offer better values for your bling compared to high-end legacy designers, posh brands, or big-box retailers. They might have smaller storefronts or less outfitted interiors, but they say not to judge a book by its cover!
Prioritize Your “Cs”
This point is applicable if you want a diamond, which is basically the case with engagement rings! The ‘Four Cs’ is the gospel of diamond shopping, i.e., cut, color, carat, and clarity. Point to be noted, the priciest diamonds are always the whitest, clearest, and biggest, and the round cuts often come with the heftiest price tags. So, to avoid the other C, which is confusing, it’s better to start on the carat and then work on the rest.