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The wedding

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After the wedding

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Married lifeThe first month after the wedding

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Engagement rings & wedding bands: Settings and metals

The setting holds the stone and shapes daily wear. Bezels and low settings suit active hands; halos add sparkle; platinum and gold each have trade-offs.

The key points

  • Solitaire, halo, three-stone, pavé or bezel
  • Low-profile settings snag less
  • Platinum is durable; white gold needs re-plating
  • Check which bands will sit beside it

Read more about settings and metals

A bright bridal boutique with gowns on racks and a fitting areaWedding dressesWedding dress shopping: when to start, what to bring, how to knowA DJ controller and headphones ready for a receptionReception, food & musicWedding music: what to play for every momentA bride in a white off-the-shoulder gown and a groom in a navy suit waving to seated guests as they enter their receptionReception, food & musicWedding Reception Entrance Songs: How to Choose Music for Your Grand Entrance

Quick answers

Should we hire a band or a DJ?

Bands bring live energy; DJs bring range and usually cost less. Watch real performance videos and ask who will MC.

Reception, food & musicAll questions

Which wedding vendors should we book first?

The venue, then the vendors who can only work one wedding a day: photographer, videographer, band or DJ, and a planner if you want one.

Vendors & contractsAll questions

What is the difference between an engagement ring and a wedding ring?

The engagement ring is given at the proposal and usually has a center stone; the wedding band is exchanged at the ceremony and is often plainer. Many people wear both.

Just engagedAll questions

What is the first thing to book for a wedding?

The venue and date. Caterer, photographer and band or DJ usually come next.

Planning & timelineAll questions

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