Wedding Rings – What Women Want

Is the big white dress, exchange of wedding rings and fairy tale marriage every woman’s dream?

In the movie, Muriel’s Wedding, the lead character dreams of getting married – a traditional white wedding complete with meringue dress, wedding rings, and fairytale Prince. She becomes obsessed with the idea of marriage; only when those wedding rings have been swapped will she feel like she’s finally ‘made it’. The movie taps into a cultural obsession. Marriage has been a major pursuit for women for centuries. For Muriel, the idea of exchanging wedding rings becomes a perpetual fantasy as she yearns for a glamorous wedding to her very own Prince Charming who will take her away from her tedious life and low self esteem.
 

Wedding rings and happy endings

The notion that for a woman to be successful in life she needs to have exchanged wedding rings is one that should be an outdated one, and yet the fantasy of a blissful marriage is one that is still very much alive and kicking. From the Vicar of Dibley Christmas special where she meets a tall, dark stranger and falls in love at first sight, the exchange of wedding rings is seen very much as the ‘happy ending’ and conclusion to the character’s quest in life.
 

The exchange of wedding rings

Even for women who value careers and independence, the exchange of wedding rings can still have a massive hold over us. Feminists and sociologists have investigated the institution of marriage and obsession with wearing wedding rings, as one that is fundamentally patriarchal. Nicky Falkof, author of Ball and Chain: The Trouble with Modern Marriage writes: “Wedding rings have always been the symbol of this contract. In ancient Rome a man claimed a woman with the giving of a ring, making it a sign of ownership rather than affection. Greek and Italian custom dictated the giving of complex puzzle rings - very difficult to remove or replace quickly - as a way of ensuring a wife's fidelity. In most European countries, the ring was traditionally exchanged along with a promise of money from the bride's father, which was often the primary motivation for the marriage. Cash, mistrust and ownership - hardly a recipe for romance.”

Luckily, the institution of marriage has moved with the times and now the exchange of wedding rings is often based on mutual respect, trust and equality. And the fairytale white wedding still remains the number one dream for many women today.
 

Marital bliss – Safe, secure and dependable

The fact that politicians flaunt their wedding rings and marital bliss demonstrates that every picture is worth a thousand words when it comes to great PR. The family photo opportunity is one that might be rather cynically employed, but there’s no doubt a politician who shows his family man side is crucial in a world where sleaze and corruption are never too far behind. Finding a partner, exchanging wedding rings and having a few kids could be just the thing if you’re thinking of becoming a politician.
 

Buy your wedding ring from the Jewellery Company

The Jewellery Company has a wide range of wedding rings to suit all tastes and budgets. From plain gold bands to contemporary diamond rings, you can find your perfect wedding rings and order online.

Set in tasteful ring boxes and with free UK delivery, The Jewellery Company is the perfect place to find wedding rings for your big day. For more information, browse our website, or call us on 0800 023 2283.