Lyla Dejesus
The ring bearer is a heartwarming moment in any wedding ceremony. Usually, a young male family member of the couple, often a nephew or cousin, walks down the aisle with a ring cushion, carrying the bride and groom's wedding bands. The ring bearer is often dressed in a miniature version of the groom's attire, which makes for adorable photos. This tradition symbolises the couple's commitment to each other and is a moment filled with anticipation and joy as guests eagerly await the exchange of rings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who walks down the aisle | The ring bearer, usually a young child |
| When do they walk | After the maid of honour and bridesmaids, before the flower girl and bride |
| What do they carry | Rings (real or fake), a pillow, a box, a briefcase, a sign, or flowers |
| What do they wear | An outfit that matches the wedding party's attire in style and formality |
| Who do they give the rings to | The officiant or the best man |
| Where do they stand | With the wedding party, or seated with their parents |
What You'll Learn
The ring bearer's role and history
The role of the ring bearer is a cherished and adorable part of any wedding ceremony. The ring bearer is a young participant, usually between the ages of 3 and 10, who is responsible for carrying the couple's wedding rings down the aisle and presenting them to the bride and groom during the ceremony. The ring bearer is often a close relative or friend of the couple, such as a niece, nephew, or child of a close friend. This creates a personal connection and makes the role more meaningful for both the child and the couple.
The tradition of having a ring bearer is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt, where it was customary for treasured jewels to be carried on ornamental pillows during wedding ceremonies. Another theory suggests that the tradition began during medieval times when Northern Europeans presented the bride with her wedding ring on the tip of a sword. The ring bearer role became popular during the Victorian Era, with velvet jackets, short trousers, and round linen collars as the standard dress.
Today, the role of the ring bearer has evolved to be more flexible. Modern ring bearers may carry alternative items such as signs, scrolls, or boxes with fake rings, and it is not uncommon for couples to opt for no ring bearer at all. The ring bearer's outfit is typically coordinated with the groom's or groomsmen's attire, adding to the charm and symbolism of the role.
The ring bearer's duties before the wedding include attending the wedding rehearsal and any pre-wedding events, trying on their outfit, and practicing walking down the aisle with the ring pillow. On the wedding day, the ring bearer walks down the aisle ahead of the flower girl or immediately before the bride, carrying the ring pillow with the attached wedding rings. Once at the altar, the ring bearer presents the rings to the best man or the couple during the ring exchange. The ring bearer then typically stands with the wedding party for the duration of the ceremony or is seated with their parents if they are too young.
Overall, the ring bearer plays a symbolic and important role in a wedding ceremony, adding a touch of innocence and charm while symbolizing the couple's hope for a bright and joyful future together.
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What the ring bearer carries
The ring bearer is a much-loved part of any wedding ceremony. They are usually a young child, often between the ages of three and eight, and a close relative or friend of the couple. The role is symbolic, adding a touch of innocence and charm to the wedding.
The ring bearer is responsible for carrying the couple's wedding rings down the aisle. They usually walk ahead of the flower girl and immediately before the bride. The rings are often presented on a pillow or in a box, but some couples choose to be creative with this aspect, such as using a briefcase marked "ring security".
It is not necessary for the ring bearer to carry the real wedding rings. Many couples choose to give the ring bearer fake rings or decorative signs, while the best man carries the real rings. This is a precaution in case the ring bearer is very young and might put things in their mouth or drop the rings.
In addition to the rings, the ring bearer may also carry a sign with a fun or romantic message, such as "here comes the bride" or "has anyone seen the rings?".
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Who can be a ring bearer
The role of a ring bearer is typically given to young children, usually between the ages of 2 and 8. They walk down the aisle carrying the wedding rings on a pillow and present them to the bride and groom. While it is traditional for the ring bearer to be a young boy, this role can be performed by anyone, regardless of gender.
The ring bearer is often a family member, such as the nephew of the bride, godchild of the groom, or younger sibling. They can also be the child of the maid of honour, best man, or another close friend. If the couple has children, the role of ring bearer can be a sweet way to include them in the wedding.
If the couple does not have children or want to include kids in their wedding, they can choose an adult friend or family member to be the ring bearer. This could be a grandparent, older family friend, or even the best man.
Another option for the role of ring bearer is to include a pet, such as a dog or cat. This can add a unique and memorable touch to the wedding. However, it is important to consider the temperament and comfort of the pet, as well as whether the venue allows animals.
Ultimately, the choice of who can be a ring bearer is flexible and can be tailored to the couple's preferences and the dynamics of their family and friends.
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The ring bearer's attire
The ring bearer's outfit should be within the same colour scheme and match the level of formality as the rest of the wedding party. For instance, tiny tuxedos, suits, or khakis with bow ties and suspenders are all adorable options for a formal wedding. If the wedding is less formal, consider an outfit the child will be comfortable in, such as something they would usually wear.
Traditionally, the ring bearer's parents are expected to pay for their child's outfit and accessories. However, if your wedding budget allows, you may offer to pay for the ring bearer's attire if you have something specific in mind.
It is also customary for the ring bearer to receive a gift from the couple, such as something they can wear on the day of the wedding or a personalised memento.
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The ring bearer's place in the procession
The ring bearer is a much-loved part of the wedding ceremony. Usually a young child, the ring bearer is responsible for carrying the couple's wedding rings down the aisle. This role is symbolic, adding a touch of innocence and charm to the wedding.
In the wedding procession, the ring bearer comes after the maid of honour and bridesmaids, and before the flower girl and the bride. The ring bearer usually walks down the aisle ahead of the flower girl, or immediately before the bride. The ring bearer will carry the rings on a pillow or in a box, and sometimes in a briefcase marked "ring security". Once they reach the altar, they will hand the rings to either the officiant or the best man.
The ring bearer's role is an important one, and they will need to attend the rehearsal and any pre-wedding events. They will also need to be aware of the wedding day schedule and the specific timing of their role in the ceremony.
The ring bearer's outfit should complement the wedding party's outfits and be comfortable for the child to wear. It is also traditional for the ring bearer to be invited to the wedding reception.
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Frequently asked questions
The ring bearer is responsible for carrying the couple's wedding rings down the aisle during the ceremony. They will walk slowly and confidently, carrying the ring pillow or box with the wedding rings attached, and present the rings to the best man or the couple when the time comes to exchange rings.
Ring bearers are typically young boys close to the couple, such as nephews, children of close friends or family members, or the child of the maid of honour or best man. They are usually between the ages of three and eight, but this is not a strict rule. Modern weddings have shown that there are no steadfast rules when it comes to choosing a ring bearer, and you can opt for a girl, an adult, or even your pet.
The ring bearer traditionally carries the wedding rings on a pillow or in a box. However, some couples choose to be creative, with alternatives such as a "`Ring Security` briefcase", ribbons tied to favourite poems or scriptures, or a bouquet.
