Headlines

And the Average Cost of an Engagement Ring This Year Is …

Published

7 years ago

June 13, 2017

INSTORE Staff

Overall wedding costs are down.

The average price paid for an engagement ring in the first quarter of this year was $3,406, according to new data released by research firm The Wedding Report.

That was virtually unchanged from 2016, when the average cost over the full year was $3,407.

Spending on wedding bands was also flat.

The average price of a woman’s band in first-quarter 2017 was $785. That compared with $786 in 2016.

The price of a man’s band was unchanged at $456.

The average amount U.S. couples were spending on their wedding as of first-quarter 2017 was $25,961. That represented a 2.8 percent decrease from the 2016 figure of $26,720.

The Wedding Report noted: “While average spending for most items remained flat, the reason for the decline in overall spending is due to falling demand for services like, transportation, entertainment, and beauty. Couples seem to be looking for alternatives or other options, [rather] than the traditional route, for these services.”

The figures were based on responses from 3,401 couples.

Read more at The Wedding Report

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”