Source: yurakrasil/Shutterstock.com For many couples, they think of the large ticket expenses when it comes to wedding planning. The venue and the catering are the largest expenses you’ll have for your event, but if you’re not careful, all the other items can quickly add up to break your budget. One neglected cost many couples forget is the cost of the wedding bands! Most couples know the woman’s engagement ring will cost a pretty penny, but many don’t include it in the cost of the wedding since it happens before. However, the cost of the engagement ring can actually put a dent in the wedding budget when you think about it! That leaves couples typically wondering what they can do for their wedding bands, especially for a man’s wedding band. You’ll find that men’s wedding bands tend to be less expensive than women’s, especially if you go with a silicone ring for men. Do I Even Need a Ring? Well, that depends. We’d say yes. Todays’ wedding rings symbolize your commitment to your spouse. It’s a way to physically show that commitment, even when your spouse isn’t around. It’s a message to others as much as it’s a message to yourself. You’re in a committed relationship with another person, a familial unit (even if you just have a fur baby!). Having a wedding ring is pretty much a necessity for anyone in a marriage. - We often get asked whether men wear engagement rings. The answer is – sure! Whether a man wears an engagement ring is entirely up to him. Some want to, others don’t. Regardless, you can wear one if you’d like. The choice is yours! Do Men Wear Engagement Rings? Find Out in Our Guide! But, if you and your partner feel strongly about not wearing them, then to each their own! Your marriage is yours, and if you and your partner are in agreement to not wear them for whatever reason, then do so. Source: Kristi Land/Shutterstock.com What If I Work in Hazardous Conditions? The solution in that situation is actually pretty simple. Don’t wear a metal ring! Metal rings don’t stretch with your skin as it swells or contracts with temperatures and can’t usually stand up to harsh chemicals. Plus, they can cost up to 10x more than silicone bands. Most are at least $200 to $300, especially if you choose premium metals. If you work as a first responder, mechanic or in any other career field that experiences hazardous conditions on a daily basis, a silicone ring is the way to go. Our silicone rings are built to withstand extreme temperatures and remain durable even in the toughest of conditions. They mitigate odors, too! Order a Camo Silicone Ring for Your Hunting Hubby What If I Work Out Frequently? That’s okay, too! Silicone wedding bands are perfect for anyone with an active lifestyle. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort or style. Even if you rock climb professionally, our silicone bands are great for you. We also recommend to anyone who works in an office setting to have a simple metal band on-hand for important meetings or events, but have a silicone band for everyday use. It will help you keep your metal band in pristine condition for years to come – and our silicone bands are built for everyday wear without worry they’ll lose shape or comfort over time. Win-win! - By active lifestyle, we mean anything, really! Whether you do a classic cardio workout every morning for 30 minutes or you are a professional athlete, our silicone rings are perfect for you. Our camo silicone ring is perfect for the avid hunter, too. You can not only show off your chosen sport, but have a cool wedding band to go with it! It’ll blend in seamlessly with all your hunting and camo gear, too. Source: Jonathan Karwacki/Shutterstock.com How to Budget for Your Wedding Band Your wedding bands should be factored into your wedding budget. Most couples report spending over $20,000 on a wedding – and the wedding bands can factor into that! Here are a couple of tips for budgeting for your wedding band: - Consider an alternative material: Silicone wedding bands are better for the environment, last longer and are more durable than gold or platinum bands! Ours even come in a variety of colors and styles, perfect for everyone. - Consider where you can cut in other places: Ditch the invitation suite, opt for a cash bar and choose the buffet over the plated dinner. These aspects of your wedding are much more cost effective and make it easier for you to afford your wedding bands.