Once you're on the road to getting married, it can feel like every decision has been planned for you. From flowers and outfits to wedding rings, tradition dictates a lot when it comes to wedding ceremonies. Yet, it can also make you feel disconnected like your big day doesn't reflect your personality and interests. If the idea of exchanging rings doesn't excite you, here are some unique alternatives to consider.

Explore Unique Wedding Jewelry Options

People have been exchanging rings as part of marriage ceremonies for thousands of years. Every culture in the world goes about this slightly differently, and not everyone chooses traditional gold and silver. From the materials to the design, you have the opportunity to tailor your ring exchange to fit your unique love story.

If you would like to exchange rings that are more meaningful and personalized, explore these options: 

• Tattooed rings - these can be intricate or simple and will last forever.
• Natural materials - rings made from wood, stone, or metal are perfect if you and your partner love the outdoors.
• Customized gemstones - choose your favorite gem, your birthstone, or something with spiritual meaning.
• Vintage rings - prioritize upcycling by browsing antique shops, estate sales, or online marketplaces for rings that have stood the test of time.

Once you open your mind to the possibilities, you'll find that there is an entire world of alternative jewelry to consider when picking your rings.

Thinking Outside the Box With Wedding Accessories

Your wedding is all about you and your partner. So if you don't enjoy wearing a ring, you can choose a wedding accessory that fits your lifestyle and personality instead. You can exchange lockets, bracelets, watches, or any piece of timeless jewelry that reflects your love.

Alternatively, you can give each other keepsakes such as keychains, cufflinks, pocket knives, stuffed toys, and more. Whichever item you choose, arrange to have it engraved with a short message. If the item is small, you can engrave it with your wedding date to personalize it.

Once you free yourself from the idea that rings are the only possibility, you have the chance to dig deep and discover something that will be a true reflection of you and your partner. Whether it's a pair of Mickey Mouse ears to symbolize your love of Disneyland or vintage pocket squares to comment on your love of fashion, the accessory you pick should be a symbol of what brought you together. 

Take Action on Your Wedding Day

Getting married is a sacred commitment to love and support your partner for the rest of your life. If the idea of exchanging expensive jewelry and personalized keepsakes feels too materialistic, you can honor this momentous time in your life by taking action instead. Here are some impactful ways to commemorate your love on your wedding day:

• Commission a piece of art from a local artist
• Organize a tree-planting ceremony
• Volunteer together at a local charity or community event
• Encourage your guests to donate to your favorite non-profit
• Launch an initiative or project together that will make a positive impact on your community

The way you choose to spend your wedding day will help you center your shared values throughout your marriage. Take lots of photos and videos of the activity you plan for your wedding day so that you and your partner can reminisce and recommit to your values each time you look back at your wedding album.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose symbols of love and commitment that resonate with you and your partner. Whether you opt for traditional rings, alternative jewelry, or an activity on your wedding day, what matters most is the love and devotion you share.