If you don’t already have a trusted jeweller, ask around for suggestions. Look for a retailer with an excellent reputation.

Many of the area’s top jewellers advertise in this magazine and will happily take the time to chat.

The engagement ring was the big surprise, but you really should choose your wedding rings together.

Bear in mind your budget, but also remember that the exchange of rings is one of the most meaningful parts of your wedding.

These rings will be on your fingers from that day forward and will always be a reminder of your special day, so they have to be right.

Take the time to shop around and have a clear idea of what you want. Look through some catalogues to get an idea and visit your jeweller to have a chat about your thoughts.

Many women will already have a vision in mind, but there are a few things to consider.

Decide whether you want matching or separate bands – it is possible to buy rings together so they co-ordinate. However, remember that you are two separate people and may want your rings to reflect this.

You may want to match the wedding ring to the engagement ring, which may be slightly trickier if your engagement ring is unusually shaped.

Of course it may be easier, and more individual, to get something made, and you may be surprised at how reasonable this can be, so it is well worth making enquiries.

Another way to make your ring completely unique is to have it engraved with a loving phrase, the date of your wedding or perhaps your pet names for each other.

Consider your lifestyle and whether you really want a huge rock – probably not ideal if you use your hands a lot for manual labour.

Choose a band metal – the three most popular are yellow gold, white gold and platinum. Yellow gold is more traditional, but white gold tends to go better with both gold and silver, while platinum is more expensive, but stronger.

There are also some more unusual alternatives such as titanium, palladium and zirconium.

Remember that jewellers cannot stock every ring in every size, so your ring may have to be ordered.

This can take six to eight weeks, so make sure you allow plenty of time for them to be made.

Tips on choosing the right jewellery for your wedding day...

To ensure the pieces you choose are flattering, bear in mind factors like neck, face shape, bust size and how the hair will be worn. Long, slender necks can carry off a choker beautifully, whereas a thicker neck will benefit from a drop style necklace such as a lariat.

• Try on the jewellery with your dress so you can see how they work together. Bustier-top style dresses create an open space, which cries out for a more dramatic piece such as an ornamental cross or a necklace with a number of tiers, while a high neckline works well with a stunning pair of earrings or bracelet.

• Consider how your jewellery will look from the back during the service. A beautiful clasp looks fantastic, especially if you’re wearing your hair up.

• Think of your budget – diamonds always look fantastic as they catch the light and make you look radiant, but they are pricey, so diamante or Swarovski crystals may be a better option, while pearls provide a classy look.

• If you want to introduce some colour, make sure your stones tie in with your bouquet. Also consider your skin tone when deciding on white, or yellow, metal. Platinum is a cooler colour; white gold will have a more creamy appearance, whilst yellow gold most suits a warmer skin tone.