The role of ring bearer is typically given to young children, usually between the ages of three and eight, and is often performed by boys. However, there is no reason why girls cannot be ring bearers too. The term is gender-neutral, and while it is usually associated with boys, this is simply due to tradition. In fact, the role of ring bearer is an adorable alternative to the role of flower girl, which is typically performed by girls. So, if your little niece or sister would rather carry the ring than a bunch of petals, feel free to make her your ring bearer!
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Age | Typically between 3 and 8 years old, but can be older |
Gender | Usually male, but can be female |
Role | To carry the wedding rings down the aisle |
Clothing | A miniature version of the groom's or groomsmen's suit |
What You'll Learn
The role of a ring bearer
The ring bearer is often a boy, but it is becoming increasingly common for girls to take on the role. The ring bearer is usually related to the couple in some way, such as being the child of the maid of honour or best man, or the couple's nephew or niece. The ring bearer is often dressed in a small tuxedo or suit, or a miniature version of the groom's outfit.
The ring bearer usually carries the rings on a small pillow, known as a ring bearer pillow, but this is not required. Alternative options include carrying the rings in a briefcase, bouquet, or box. It is common for the ring bearer to carry fake rings as a precaution, with the best man carrying the real rings.
In addition to presenting the rings, the ring bearer may also be included in other wedding activities, such as the rehearsal dinner. The ring bearer is typically invited to the wedding reception, even if it is an adults-only event.
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Gender-neutral term
The role of a ring bearer is typically given to young children, usually between the ages of three and eight. They are responsible for carrying the wedding rings down the aisle during the ceremony. While the term "ring bearer" is commonly used to describe this role, some people may prefer to use a gender-neutral alternative.
- Ring Carrier: This term is modern and less traditional while still conveying the role of the person.
- Ring Presenter: Emphasizes the role of presenting or offering the rings during the ceremony.
- Junior Attendant: This title is more general and can be used for any young assistant at the wedding.
- Attendant: This term can be used to describe anyone at the wedding, whether they are in the wedding party, a guest, or even the photographer.
- Flower Child: This term is suitable for young individuals carrying flowers or rings and takes the pressure off gendering someone who may not want to be gendered.
- Flower Carrier/Petal Tosser: Genderless and ageless terms that can be used for older individuals carrying flowers or petals down the aisle.
Some people may prefer to stick with the traditional term "ring bearer" as it is already considered gender-neutral by some, and changing it may not be necessary. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for those involved.
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Alternative names for a female ring bearer
While the role of ring bearer is typically associated with young boys, there is no reason why a girl cannot take on this role. The term "ring bearer" is gender-neutral, and some people believe there is no need to change it based on the gender of the person performing the role. However, if you are looking for alternative names for a female ring bearer, here are some suggestions:
- Ring Princess
- Ring Fairy
- Ring Maiden
- Ring Queen
- Band Beauty
- Ring Security
- Ring Bearette
- Bearer/Bringer of the Rings
- Flower Child
- Star Child
- Saturn (the ringed planet)
- Junior Usher
- Junior Groomsman
These suggestions offer a range of creative and fun alternatives to the traditional title of "ring bearer" for a female.
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Age of a ring bearer
The role of a ring bearer is typically given to young children, who are usually between the ages of three and eight. However, there is no age limit to who can be a ring bearer and the role can be given to someone younger or older, or even to an adult.
If the ring bearer is younger than three, it is recommended to speak with the child's parents to see if they can escort the child down the aisle. If the ring bearer is ten years old or older, they can be given a junior groomsman role, which includes more responsibility and involvement in pre-wedding events.
The ring bearer is usually male, often referred to as the "ring boy", but the role can definitely be given to a female. The term "ring bearer" is considered gender-neutral by some, and does not need to be changed for a female. However, some people prefer to give female ring bearers alternative titles such as "ring princess", "ring maiden", or "bearer/bringer of the rings".
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What a ring bearer wears
The role of a ring bearer is usually given to young children, typically between the ages of three and eight. They are responsible for carrying the wedding rings down the aisle during the ceremony.
There are several options for what a ring bearer can wear. The most common choice is a miniature version of the groom's outfit, including a tuxedo jacket, pants, vest, shirt, shoes, bow tie or long tie, pocket square, studs, and cufflinks. This allows the ring bearer to stand out from the groomsmen while still coordinating with the groom's look. Alternatively, the ring bearer can wear the same outfit as the groomsmen, including matching accessories such as a long tie, bow tie, and pocket square in colours that complement the bridesmaids' dresses. This option makes the ring bearer feel like "one of the guys." If the ring bearer is too small for a tuxedo, they can opt for just the pants, a shirt, a bow tie, suspenders, and shoes, or a toddler's tuxedo with matching shoes.
It is important to note that the ring bearer's parents typically pay for their child's outfit and accessories. Therefore, it is considerate to give them options at various price points or offer to pay for the outfit yourself if you prefer a more expensive option. Additionally, providing guidance or choosing the exact outfit you want can be helpful for the parents.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the title of ring bearer is gender-neutral, so a woman can be a ring bearer.
A ring bearer is responsible for carrying the couple's wedding rings down the aisle during the ceremony.
Ring bearers typically wear miniature versions of the groom's or groomsmen's suits, such as tiny tuxedos, suits, or khakis with bow ties and suspenders.
Ring bearers are typically between the ages of three and eight years old. However, there is no lower age limit, and ring bearers can be older.