You've got the engagement ring (after dropping a few hints of course), now it's time to pick out the perfect wedding ring to go along with it-and we've got all the help you'll need. Before saying "I do" to the perfect wedding ring, check out our guide on every important factor to consider.

1. Narrow Down Your Wedding Ring Choices
Diamonds or gemstones, platinum or gold-narrowing down your ring options may seem overwhelming, but don't panic. Just take it one step at a time. Start with style: Are you envisioning a simple band or one with embellishments? Do you want your wedding ring to be the same metal as your engagement ring? Do you think you and your partner's rings should match? Work out these kind of questions beforehand so you can zero in on exactly what you're looking for, then start shopping around.

2. Consider Buying Your Ring and Your Bands Together
If you prefer to be surprised by the engagement ring, this may not work, but knowing what bands go with the engagement ring can help you make a decision. For example, if you have a unique engagement ring, you may want a simple, no-fuss band, whereas a simple engagement ring may call for the added sparkle of a diamond pavé band. Also think about how the rings fit together. If you're planning on wearing your engagement and wedding ring side by side, 24/7, look for a contour or shadow band designed to interlock with the matching engagement ring. If you're planning on wearing your wedding ring alone, you may want a more intricate style that will look great with or without your engagement ring. Talk to your jeweler about finding a band that works with your ring (some can even create both at the same time).

3. Start Your Ring Search Early
Once you have a basic idea of what kind of ring you'd like, it's time for the fun part: trying them on! Give yourselves at least two to three months before the wedding date to ring shop. You'll need this time to browse, research prices and revisit rings that catch your eye. If you have your heart set on a custom ring, you'll probably need even more time. And keep in mind: Extras, like engraving, can take up to one month.

4. Mix It Up
Don't fret if you like platinum and your partner likes yellow gold. There's no rule that says you have to choose the same metal or even style. You could compromise with braided bands that blend the two metals together or just be totally different-the key to finding something you both love is choosing wedding bands that reflect your individual styles.

5. Set a Budget
Shop with the assumption that you'll spend about 3 percent of your total wedding budget on the rings. Depending on the retailer, a plain, 14-karat gold or simple platinum band can cost around $1,000. Embellishments, like diamonds or engraving, will quickly add to the cost, so factor that into your budget if you plan to personalize your rings with any of these extras. The price of engraving is usually based on the number of characters, the font used and whether it's engraved by hand or machine (hand is usually pricier).