Franklin Dean
The number of ring pillows used in a wedding is typically one, carried by a junior member of the bridal party known as the ring bearer. The ring pillow is used to transport the wedding rings safely down the aisle during the ceremony. While some couples opt for traditional small, ornate pillows, others choose whimsical or thematic containers that reflect their personal tastes, such as seashells, antique books, or decorative boxes. Ultimately, the choice of how many ring pillows to use depends on the couple's preferences and the specific needs of their wedding ceremony.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To carry the wedding rings down the aisle |
| Who carries it | A junior member of the bridal party, often a young male relative or friend |
| Size | Traditional ring pillows are 8" by 8" but bigger or smaller options can be chosen |
| Colour | Usually white or a colour that reflects the wedding's colour scheme |
| Style | Simple or embellished with ribbons, flowers, butterflies, etc. |
| Substitutes | Ring boxes, books, seashells, ornaments, balloons, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Ring pillow alternatives
While a ring pillow is the most traditional option for the ring bearer to carry the wedding rings down the aisle, many couples are now opting for more creative alternatives. Here are some unique and fun ideas for ring pillow alternatives:
Ring Boxes
A ring box is a great alternative to a ring pillow, especially for rustic or outdoor weddings. You can opt for a simple wooden box, or a glass or velvet box with a clear lid, which can be personalised with your initials. To make it extra special, fill it with moss or flowers and greenery. After the wedding, you can use it as a jewellery box and display it in your home as a reminder of your special day.
Books
For bookworms, a shared favourite book or a romantic novel hollowed out to hold the rings is a perfect choice. You could even fashion the book into a heart shape or use a decoupage wooden block with a script. If you're feeling extra adventurous, consider using a vintage, battered book and attaching the rings with a piece of yarn, ribbon, or twine.
Seashells
Seashells are a beautiful alternative, especially for beachfront or ocean-themed weddings. You can use a real shell that holds special memories or a decorative one that matches your wedding colour palette. For a unique touch, create your own shell ring box using a clam or oyster.
Bells
If you want your ring bearer to make a joyful noise, give them bells to ring instead of a pillow. This affordable option will enhance your ceremony with a sweet melody.
Balloons
For a playful and whimsical touch, opt for an oversized balloon. You can add lettering such as "Here comes the bride" and have the ring bearer carry the rings in their pocket. Just be sure to securely attach the balloon to avoid any unexpected flyaways!
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Ring pillow substitutes
Typically, a single ring pillow is used in a wedding. However, modern couples are increasingly opting for creative alternatives to the traditional ring pillow. Here are some unique and personalised substitutes for a ring pillow at your wedding:
Seashells
Seashells are a beautiful option for beachfront or tropical-themed weddings. You can use a real shell or a decorative one that matches your wedding colour palette. For a whimsical touch, fill the shell with flowers and greenery to create a visually striking and natural cushion for your rings.
Custom Ring Dish
A custom ring dish is a simple and elegant alternative to the ring pillow. Engrave it with your initials, wedding date, or a meaningful quote. You can even incorporate your wedding colours and theme. After the wedding, the dish can be displayed in your home as a cherished reminder of your special day.
Wood Slice
For a rustic or outdoor wedding, a wood slice makes a perfect ring pillow substitute. Attach the rings to the wood with yarn, ribbon, or twine, or carve out a small hole for the rings to sit securely. This option adds a natural and whimsical touch to your ceremony.
Books or Bibles
If you and your partner share a love for literature, consider using a hardback book as your ring "pillow." Create a secret compartment by cutting out the centre of the book to safely store your rings. Alternatively, a Bible can be used by the ring bearer, especially if you want to incorporate religion into your ceremony.
Ornament or Antique
For a festive wedding during the holiday season, replace the traditional pillow with a festive ornament. Alternatively, carry the rings in an antique or heirloom box passed down through generations, infusing a sense of history and sentiment into your big day.
These are just a few ideas, but the possibilities for ring pillow substitutes are endless. Feel free to get creative and choose an option that reflects your personal style, venue, season, and budget.
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Ring pillow sizes
Wedding ring pillows, also known as ring bearer pillows, are usually small and usually ornate. They are used to carry wedding rings during the ceremony, and they often feature ribbons that can be tied to the rings for safety. The pillows can be in any colour, but white silk is traditional.
The standard size for a ring pillow is 8 inches by 8 inches, but you can go bigger or smaller depending on the age and size of your ring bearer. For example, a 5-inch by 5-inch pillow would be more suitable for a young ring bearer.
If you're looking for a rustic theme, a wood slice ring pillow is a good option. These usually come in smaller sizes, such as 4.5 inches. Burlap and lace are also popular choices for rustic weddings, and these pillows are often around 7 inches by 7 inches. For a winter wedding, a knit heart-shaped pillow with a ribbon adds a cosy touch and can be around 5.5 to 7 inches in size.
There are also various creative alternatives to the traditional ring pillow, such as a small pumpkin for a fall wedding, a seashell for a beach wedding, or a festive ornament for a holiday wedding. These alternatives can be dressed up with ribbons or flowers to add a whimsical touch.
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Ring pillow colours
The colour of your ring pillow is entirely up to you and your preferences. Here are some ideas to consider:
Traditional
If you're having a traditional wedding, you might want to stick to a classic white satin pillow. This is a simple and elegant option that will never go out of style. You could also choose a white silk pillow, which would add a touch of luxury to your ceremony.
Matching the Wedding Colours
If you want to coordinate your ring pillow with the rest of your wedding, choose a colour that matches your wedding colour scheme or theme. This could be a shade that complements your bridesmaids' dresses or the groomsmen's ties. You could also add ribbons to the pillow that match your wedding colours.
Seasonal and Venue-Based Choices
If you're having a beach wedding, you might want to consider a seashell as your ring bearer "pillow". You can use a real shell or a decorative one that matches your wedding colours. For a rustic wedding, a ring pillow made from burlap or other nature-inspired materials would be a perfect choice. If you're tying the knot during the holiday season, a festive ornament or a dish engraved with a meaningful quote can be a whimsical and seasonal option.
Personalisation
You can also choose a colour that has personal significance to you and your partner. For example, you could select a shade that matches an accent in your home or an adornment that your partner gave you. This will make your ring pillow even more special and unique to you.
Remember, the ring pillow is a fun way to add a personal touch to your wedding, so choose a colour that reflects your style and tastes.
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Ring pillow retailers
While it is not mandatory to have a ring pillow at your wedding, it is a nice addition to your decor and can help transport the rings safely down the aisle. If you have a young ring bearer, it is also a good idea to give them something to carry, whether that is a ring pillow or a unique alternative.
There are many retailers that sell ring pillows at various price points, so you do not have to break the bank. Here are some ring pillow retailers to consider:
Etsy
Etsy is a great option if you are looking for a handmade, customizable, and personalized ring pillow. You can find a wide range of wedding ring pillows on Etsy that can be tailored to your theme and style.
Amazon
If you need a last-minute ring pillow, Amazon is a perfect choice due to its fast shipping and vast options.
Walmart
Walmart offers affordable ring bearer pillows, with many options under $10. You can find a variety of designs, including decorative throw pillows and ring bearer pillows with satin ribbons.
The Knot Shop
The Knot Shop is a one-stop shop for all your wedding decor needs, including ring pillows. They offer a range of unique, rustic, and vintage options to match your wedding theme and color scheme.
Unbox the Dress
Unbox the Dress creates artisan-crafted ring bearer pillows custom-made from your heirloom wedding dress. This option is perfect if you want a one-of-a-kind, personalized ring pillow made from your family's wedding dress.
In addition to these retailers, you can also get creative and make your own ring pillow or use a unique container that reflects your personal taste, such as a seashell, a festive ornament, or an antique book.
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Frequently asked questions
Typically, only one ring pillow, also known as a ring bearer pillow or ring cushion, is used in a wedding. This pillow is carried by a junior member of the bridal party, known as the ring bearer, who is often a young male relative or friend of the couple.
No, it is not necessary to use a ring pillow. Some couples choose to forgo the traditional pillow and opt for creative alternatives such as seashells, ornaments, or personalised containers.
Unique alternatives to a ring pillow include a small pumpkin for a fall wedding, a bird's nest for a woodland-themed wedding, or a remote-controlled car that the ring bearer can "drive" down the aisle.
Ring pillows can be purchased from various retailers, including Etsy, Amazon, Walmart, and The Knot Shop. Etsy offers customisation options, while Amazon provides fast shipping for last-minute purchases.
Yes, you can make your own ring pillow using materials such as leftover fabric, ribbons, or other sentimental items. You can also decorate a simple pillow to match your wedding colours and theme.
