Wedding season often inspires unmarried couples in love to make the next step and get engaged. And with an engagement comes the opportunity to shop for engagement rings and wedding bands. However, this is the most important jewelry women and men wear, so careful forethought and planning is essential. This type of purchase is one in which you never want to experience buyer’s remorse. Here are a few tips to help.

1. Decide on a budget that you BOTH agree to and stick with it. While there is certainly a temptation to go with big and blingy, the last thing either of you want is a feeling of bitterness when you get the bill. Be reasonable and responsible, and remember that the love you two share will outshine any diamond ring you long to purchase.
2. Select wedding bands you BOTH appreciate. Don’t limit yourself to a matching wedding band set. It’s perfectly fine to purchase each band as a single, in order to appeal to the taste of each partner. For example, most women prefer diamond wedding bands, while many men nowadays prefer something simple and less ostentatious. Shop for wedding bands together and make the effort to ensure that each partner is happy.
3. Shop only with reputable retailers, and shop several retailers before making a decision. If you purchase an engagement ring or some wedding bands from a private individual through Craigslist, eBay or even at a Pawn Shop, you are really taking a risk. If you do decide to go that route, be sure you get a written guarantee of the authenticity of the jewelry, then get the pieces appraised by a professional jeweler to be sure.

Lastly, educate yourself on your options before you set out to shop. Decide ahead of time what types of metals, cuts and settings you prefer. If you are prepared with decisions, knowledge and a set budget when you shop for your symbols of love, you’ll find the experience to be enjoyable and memorable. That’s the way it should be.