Weddings are a deeply personal celebration of a couple’s love for one another. Every couple shows their personal sense of style throughout the wedding – with their fashion, music, invitations, and more.
Many are bucking tradition with unique ceremonies, destination weddings, and truly inventive reception offerings. If you’re already planning on a unique wedding, why not go all the way and invest in a truly personal symbol of your union?
For decades, couples have gone the traditional wedding band route, but there many options out there. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most unique and memorable wedding ring alternatives to celebrate your union.
1. Get a Wedding Tattoo
In many ways a tattoo is an even more apt way of signifying your eternal love than the traditional wedding ring. After all, what could symbolize your commitment to one another more than permanently etching an emblem of your union directly onto your body?
The best part of getting a wedding tattoo instead of a ring is the flexibility and opportunities for creativity. Whether you tattoo a wedding band onto your finger or get a creative piece personalized for your spouse-to-be, it will forever serve as a reminder of the bond you share.
Take the time to get the tattoos a day or two before the ceremony and then cover them up with a delicate satin ribbon so as not to ruin the surprise.
2. Replace the Ring with Other Jewelry
If you know your partner still appreciates a bit of bling but shys away from tradition, a necklace or bracelet make perfect alternatives. These other types of jewelry can be just as meaningful and symbolic. All that’s important is what matters to you, and you know that better than anyone.
Throw back to the 70s and wear ID bracelets engraved with each other’s names or commission a custom crafted piece of jewelry unique to you and your partner. What truly matters is that the piece you decide on is personal and meaningful to you.
3. Craft a Display for the Home
You’re building a home together, and what could be more symbolic than creating a piece of art representing your promises to one another? Perhaps it’s a collage of goals for your lives together or a painting you can add to every year on your anniversary. Whatever is meaningful to you, you can design something that follows your feelings and represents your union as a couple.
You’re going to be spending a great deal of time together in your home, so it only makes sense that the symbol of your shared lives would be prominently displayed there.
Incorporate your art piece into a unique wedding backdrop so that all your guests can take photos with the symbol of your union.
4. Surprise Each Other
Instead of spending money on wedding rings, a great alternative is to put aside the amount you would have budgeted and use it to purchase a special gift for your partner. If each half of the couple thinks and plans, you will end up with something truly special.
Not only can the items you purchase become a symbol of your marriage, but they will also be a lasting representation of your love and thoughtfulness.
5. Engrave a Personalized Plaque or Card
Engravings come in all shapes and sizes. You can create something your spouse can display in a personal area or something small enough to fit into their wallet like a business card, only it’s a constant reminder that they are loved.
You can have your names and wedding date, or a quote that is meaningful to both of you, added to the card.
6. Plant a Tree
Imagine the symbol of your union standing tall, firmly planted as a part of the Earth itself. Not only will a tree beautify the planet, but it will grow and flourish alongside your marriage.
It can become the cornerstone of your new yard or be planted somewhere you can visit every year on your anniversary. No matter where it is, watching it thrive can become an activity you enjoy together for a lifetime.
7. Custom Brew Your Own Batch of Alcohol
If you’re fond of wine or other drinks, a fun wedding band alternative is to create a special blend, or purchase a case of your favorite vintage to enjoy on special occasions.
You could even order a cask or two of freshly prepared whiskey or other fine liquor and allow it to age until its ready to crack open on your 10th or 20th anniversary.
Whatever you choose, every time you take a sip of your wedding brew you’ll be reminded of how far you’ve come together as a couple.
Commission a craft brewery to create a beer with a flavor profile made just for your wedding. You can even give a bottle to each of your guests as a wedding favor.
8. Save for a Destination Wedding or Vacation
If spending money on jewelry isn’t your thing, how about a trip where you can create a lifetime’s worth of memories? For couples with wanderlust, this will truly be a magical experience.
Use the money you would have spent on the rings to plan a destination wedding, or put it toward a romantic vacation experience in the future. A ring might not be for you, but a hot air balloon ride in Paris could create an unforgettable memory you’ll share with your grandkids.
9. Donate to a Worthy Cause
As a couple, you share values and goals. What could be more meaningful than donating to a cause you both wholeheartedly support? You can make it an anniversary ritual, and it will always be something you contribute to and help grow together.
Not only will you be helping others, you’ll be creating a foundation of charity and giving for your marriage.
Got any other creative ideas for wedding ring alternatives? We’d love to hear from you in the comments! Also, be sure to check out our Facebook and Pinterest pages for more wedding inspiration!
