When it comes to wedding traditions, few questions spark as much uncertainty as who buys the man's wedding ring. In the past, etiquette books and cultural customs offered a clear answer, but today the landscape looks very different. Some couples follow tradition, others split the cost, and many turn it into a romantic surprise.
The truth is, there’s no single rule. The choice depends on personal values, culture, and finances, making the decision as individual as the couple themselves.
A Look at Tradition: Who Bought the Man’s Ring in the Past?
For much of history, men’s wedding rings weren’t as central to ceremonies as women’s rings. In many Western traditions, the groom would pay for both rings as part of his duty to provide, reinforcing the gender roles of the time. By contrast, in some cultures, the bride (or her family) was responsible for buying the groom's ring, symbolising her commitment and the joining of families.
In Europe, the practice of men wearing rings gained momentum later. For example, during the Renaissance, wealthy families sometimes gifted ornate bands to grooms as a sign of alliance and loyalty. In parts of Asia, however, it was customary for families to exchange gifts of jewellery between bride and groom, blurring the lines of ‘who pays.’
Ultimately, these traditions reflected broader social expectations rather than personal preference. What mattered most wasn’t who paid, but how the ring symbolised duty, loyalty, and union.
Modern Practices: Shared, Surprising, or Solo?
Modern couples continue to redefine ring-buying traditions in meaningful ways. What was once a rigid custom has become an opportunity to express partnership, individuality, and balance.
Shopping & Paying Together
Shared decision-making is increasingly common. In fact, 53% of people report shopping for the engagement ring with their partner, showing a shift toward collaboration over tradition. Couples enjoy the process of browsing styles together, so that both rings reflect their personalities and values.
Each Person Buying the Other’s Ring
This approach carries a deeply romantic symbolism. By choosing and gifting each other’s rings, couples emphasise reciprocity and the idea of giving, not just receiving, within the marriage.
The Groom Buying His Own Ring
Some men prefer to purchase their own ring, particularly if they have specific preferences around materials, width, or design. This option allows for complete autonomy over style while still honouring the commitment the ring represents.
Today, what truly matters isn’t who buys the man's wedding band. It’s doing so in a way that feels authentic and reflects the dynamics of your relationship.
What Influences the Decision?
When it comes down to who buys the man’s wedding ring, the decision often depends on a mix of practical and personal factors.
Financial circumstances are one of the most common influences. Couples may decide based on who has the higher income, or they may split costs in line with budget priorities. For a deeper look into budgets, see our guide on how expensive wedding rings are.
Romantic gestures can influence the decision. Some partners enjoy surprising each other, while others prefer the transparency of shopping together.
Cultural customs add another layer. In some traditions, the bride purchases the groom’s ring, while in others, the groom covers both.
The most important step is talking openly. Respectful conversation helps couples address differences respectfully and find an approach that feels balanced.
Making the Choice Work for You
Every couple writes their own rules when it comes to wedding rings. What matters most is finding an approach that feels natural, balanced, and true to your story. A few gentle ways to keep the process simple and stress-free:
Talk it through early so there are no surprises when the time comes.
Explore each other’s tastes, from 18kt white, yellow, or rose gold to platinum, and settings like prong set, floating, timeless, or styles without diamonds.
Share the cost or pool resources if it feels right, turning the purchase into a symbol of partnership.
Leave room for romance, so a thoughtful surprise still feels possible.
Whatever Feels Right for You Both: Choose with Heart and Style
There’s no wrong answer when it comes to who buys men's wedding rings. What matters most is that the decision feels authentic to your relationships. Some couples lean into tradition, while others create new rituals that reflect their own story. The important thing is the love and commitment behind the band.
When you’re ready to explore designs that balance tradition with individuality, browse SH Jewellery’s men’s wedding rings and find a piece that truly feels like yours.
Shop our Men's Wedding Collection
Man’s Wedding Ring: FAQs
Yes, many couples choose to shop for their wedding rings together. It allows both partners to agree on style, comfort, and budget while sharing in the excitement of the process. This collaborative approach has become increasingly popular as modern relationships favour equality and shared decision-making.
Some men prefer to buy their own wedding ring so they can choose a design that suits their taste, lifestyle and comfort. While tradition may have suggested otherwise, today there’s no fixed rule. The decision depends entirely on what feels most meaningful and practical for each couple.
Yes, in many traditions, the bride buys the groom’s wedding ring as a symbolic gesture of love and reciprocity. While less universal today, some couples still enjoy the romance of exchanging rings that they personally selected for each other, making the moment even more personal and memorable.
Couples should discuss financial priorities, personal preferences, and cultural expectations before deciding who buys the ring. Some split costs, others surprise each other, and many simply shop together. What matters most is creating a choice that honours the relationship and reflects shared values, rather than following outside pressure.
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