Your Herts and Beds Wedding - October/November 2026 (Issue 118)

Established in Hitchin in 1760, Gatwards is the UK’s oldest family jeweller and is now in its eighth generation of the Gatward family. We spoke to the experts at Gatwards to discover their top tips for choosing the perfect wedding bands Your wedding bands are among the most meaningful pieces of jewellery you will ever buy and symbols of your commitment that you’ll wear every day for years to come. To make choosing them a little easier, here are some of our top tips on what to consider. 1. CHOOSE YOUR METALS CAREFULLY It’s important to consider the metal of your engagement ring when selecting a wedding band. Different metals can wear at different rates, so combining certain metals may not always be advisable. For example, platinum can cause greater wear to softer gold alloys when the two rings are in constant contact. Choosing compatible metals can help minimise wear and keep both rings looking beautiful for years to come. Your jeweller can advise you on the best combination for your particular rings. 2. TRY BOTH RINGS TOGETHER Your wedding band should sit comfortably and beautifully alongside your engagement ring. While many modern engagement rings are designed to sit flush with a wedding band, antique or more intricate styles may require a shaped or fitted ring to achieve the perfect fit. Trying both rings together will allow you to see how they look as a pair and ensure they sit comfortably without unnecessary friction between the two. 3. GET PROFESSIONALLY SIZED Getting the right ring size is essential for both comfort and security. The required size can vary depending on the width and style of the band, while temperature can also affect the size of your fingers. Fingers naturally expand when warm and contract when cold. Having your finger professionally measured by an experienced jeweller, ideally while trying on the style of ring you intend to wear, will help ensure the best possible fit. 4. DON’T LEAVE IT TOO LATE Wedding rings are often made to order and can take between four and six weeks to arrive, although bespoke designs or alterations may take longer. Shopping early gives you plenty of time to explore different styles, make your decision and allow for any adjustments, without the added stress of wondering whether your rings will be ready for the big day! 5. YOUR RINGS DON’T HAVE TO MATCH While some couples choose matching wedding bands, there’s no rule that says they have to be identical. You may find that you each prefer a different style to reflect your individual tastes. From diamond-set bands to wider, textured or more contemporary designs, the most important thing is choosing rings that you both love and will enjoy wearing. For more than 260 years, Gatwards has helped couples find wedding rings that feel truly personal. Many couples also choose to add an engraving – whether it’s a wedding date, initials or a meaningful message – creating a lasting reminder of their special day. And, if you’re looking for something completely unique, Gatwards offers a bespoke service, bringing your ideas to life. You can even choose to recycle your own gold into your wedding bands, creating an even more personal connection to your jewellery. Speak to the Gatwards team to find out more. Matching metals ENQUIRE NOW! 01462 434 273 marketing@gatwardsofhitchin.co.uk www.gatwardsofhitchin.co.uk 20 Market Place, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1DU 59

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