Your Wedding Jewellery Timeline: What to Buy and When

When planning a wedding, it’s easy to get swept up in dresses, flowers and table plans but your jewellery deserves just as much thought. These are the pieces that will frame your face, grace your hands, and carry the memory of your day for decades to come.

Whether you're planning far ahead or navigating a shorter timeline, here’s how to make sure you find the right jewellery at the right time, without last-minute stress.

6–12 Months Before: Engagement Ring Final Touches and Wedding Band Research

If you already have your engagement ring, this is the perfect time to bring it in for a clean and polish before your wedding day. It’s also when you’ll want to start thinking about your wedding bands.

At Walter Bull & Son, we offer both classic designs and bespoke options, so whether you’re looking for a traditional match or something more personal, we’ll guide you through materials, shapes and finishes to suit your style.

If you’re planning to engrave your bands or create a custom design, we recommend starting at least six months ahead to allow plenty of time for crafting, resizing and personalisation.

3–6 Months Before: Bridal Jewellery and Gifts

With your dress or outfit sorted, now is the time to decide on your wedding day jewellery. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and hair accessories should complement your overall look without overwhelming it. Try your options on with your outfit if possible and consider neckline, hairstyle and fabric tones.

This is also a good moment to think about gifts for your bridal party or family. A pair of delicate earrings, a birthstone pendant or a personalised cufflink can be a meaningful way to say thank you. We can help you choose or create something that feels both thoughtful and enduring.

1–2 Months Before: Final Fittings and Resizing

By now, your jewellery choices should be finalised, but it’s important to check the fit. Fingers can change size slightly depending on the season or time of day, so if you haven’t had your rings resized since the engagement, this is your moment.

We also recommend a final clean and polish of all pieces you’ll be wearing on the day. Our workshop can ensure your diamonds are gleaming, your pearls are perfectly strung and every clasp is secure, giving you one less thing to think about when the big day arrives.

1 Week Before: Pack and Prepare

As you begin to gather everything you need for the ceremony, don’t forget to include your jewellery in your checklist. We advise storing each piece separately in soft pouches or boxes to avoid tangles and scratches. If you’re travelling for your wedding, keep your jewellery in your hand luggage and never checked in.

Give your rings one last check to ensure they’re clean and ready for close-ups. And remember, if anything needs urgent attention, our team in Cirencester is always happy to help.

After the Wedding: Clean, Check and Cherish

Once the day is done, your jewellery becomes part of your story. Rings will be worn every day, necklaces might become heirlooms, and gifts exchanged between loved ones will hold quiet sentimental weight.

Bring your pieces in for a post-wedding check-up to make sure settings are still secure and to keep everything in its best condition. A professional clean helps preserve the magic of the day and ensures your jewellery will last a lifetime.