So you’ve found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Congratulations! This is one of the happiest times of your life, and you want to seal it with an engagement and wedding ring.

As the person intending to propose, it’s understandable that you have questions like “When should I buy the ring,” and “What kind of ring should I get?”

Let’s be honest for a minute here. You can spend your money any way you choose to, and there is no black-and-white rule on what kind of rings you and your future spouse must wear. Some of the most gorgeous and popular men’s wedding band fashions are quality silicone rings, and many women have left behind the traditional diamond wedding set in favor of their favorite gems.

Take the pressure out of choosing the stereotypically perfect ring, and look for a design that matches three things: the love you have for your intended, their taste, and your budget. Once you have those three factors determined, the next question is, “Is it time to buy the ring yet?” Here, we’ll break down that question to help you decide when you should start this part of your marital journey.

Plan Before You Buy

We get it. You finally decided to take the leap, which is both exciting and terrifying, and you want to buy the ring and get it done! But this really is a big deal for you and your significant other, and, like any important move in your life, you should plan for it first.

By now, you should know what your SO likes and what kind of proposal they have dreamed of getting. This is something they’ll share with their loved ones, friends, and children over the years, and it’s up to you to make it something they’re proud to relate.

Timing is crucial, so plan in advance to choose a date that is memorable to both of you. Many couples get engaged between November and February, giving this time of the year the nickname “engagement season.” Demand for rings during these months is at a high, so you may want to consider buying your ring before the demand is high and supply is limited.

You can still propose at Christmas or during the holidays when the family is together, but you should buy the ring before then. Giving yourself time to budget, look for the perfect ring, and shop when it’s on sale is still romantic, but financially wise.

When to Start Planning

Getting engaged is something you should never jump into too quickly. When you think you’ve met the love of your life, you can start choosing the ideal proposal moment, but give yourself at least three months to plan for the ring and set up the circumstances around the big event.

Keep in mind that selecting a custom ring and having it sized or engraved can take two months or longer. Talk to the jeweler about a timeframe you can both be confident with. Let them know when you’re planning to propose, and they’ll give you a better idea of which type of ring to buy that will be ready by that date.

Factors to Include in Your Decision

Working within the three-month buffer, you have some flexibility in choosing the right ring and waiting for a sale opportunity to buy it. During that time, there are some factors to consider as you search for the ideal engagement and wedding ring.

The most vital thing we can stress to you is that you are shopping for your partner’s tastes, not yours. You might fall in love with a gorgeous ring you’d love to see on their finger, but if they don’t like it, it will be a daily reminder that you chose your tastes over theirs. If the proposal is a surprise, try to find little ways to get an idea of their ring preferences. If possible, ask their friends and family for suggestions, but remind them to keep it a secret.

Think about their lifestyle, too. If they are active with their hands, they probably won’t want a ring that can get caught on things or get dirty easily. Athletes, in particular, usually prefer rings that are minimalistic with slimmer bands.

Finally, pay attention to the other jewelry your SO wears all the time. If you know it’s likely that they’ll continue to wear the same pieces of jewelry for years, try to make sure their new ring won’t contrast with those items.

Ready to Propose? Start Shopping Now

So when should you buy the engagement and wedding rings? If you’re planning on proposing any time within the next four months, it’s time to start shopping. Take this flexible period and find out your future spouse’s ring preferences. Find a jeweler that you feel comfortable working with, browse their options, and discuss your budget and hopes. Start early and remember that you’re shopping for something that will be a daily reminder of your love for your spouse.