Ring Bearer: Why Always A Boy?

The role of the ring bearer is steeped in tradition and is usually given to a young boy, often wearing a tiny tuxedo or suit. The role is not necessary for the wedding to take place, but it is a charming addition to the ceremony. The ring bearer is usually a young boy, but this is not a requirement, and the role can be performed by girls or non-binary children, as well as adults or pets. The tradition is believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt, where jewels were carried on ornamental pillows during wedding ceremonies. In Medieval times, a young child would carry the bride's train and a book of prayers while the rings were presented on the tip of a sword.

The tradition of ring bearers in weddings

The tradition of having a ring bearer at weddings is a charming and memorable addition to the ceremony. While not an essential part of the wedding, ring bearers add a special touch and are often one of the most memorable parts of the celebration. The role of the ring bearer is typically given to young children, usually boys, who are relatives or close friends of the couple. The tradition is believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt, where valuable jewels were carried on ornamental pillows during wedding ceremonies and other celebrations. In medieval times, a young child known as a page boy would carry the bride's train and a book of prayers while the wedding rings were presented on the tips of swords. Over time, wealthy families replaced the swords with pillows as a symbol of their riches, and the page boy was given the duty of carrying the pillow, often wearing a small suit or tuxedo.

Today, the ring bearer is usually between the ages of 2 and 10, and their role is to carry the wedding rings down the aisle on a pillow or cushion. The child precedes the bride, often walking alongside the flower girl. Modern ring bearers don't always carry the wedding rings and may instead hold an alternative item such as a sign or a box with fake rings. The ring bearer's outfit is typically similar to that of the groomsmen, with tiny tuxedos, suits, or khakis with bow ties and suspenders being popular choices. The gender roles of the ring bearer are completely up to the couple, and it is not uncommon to have a girl or a non-binary person fulfil the role.

In recent times, there has also been a trend of having adult friends or family members, such as grandparents, act as ring bearers. Additionally, pets, such as dogs, have become a popular choice for ring bearers, adding a unique and memorable touch to the wedding. Overall, the tradition of the ring bearer is a symbolic and charming element of the wedding ceremony, often bringing smiles to those in attendance.

The role of a ring bearer

The tradition of having a ring bearer is believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt, when treasured jewels were carried on ornamental pillows during wedding ceremonies and other celebrations. In medieval times, a young child known as a page boy would carry the bride's train and a book of prayers down the aisle, while the wedding rings were presented to the couple on the tips of swords. Wealthy families replaced the swords with pillows as a symbol of their riches, and the page boy was given the duty of carrying the pillow, often wearing a small suit or boys tuxedo.

Today, the ring bearer is usually dressed similarly to the groom and groomsmen, in a tiny tux, a small suit, or khakis with a bow tie and suspenders. The ring bearer walks down the aisle after the wedding party and delivers the rings to the best man or wedding officiant. In some cases, the ring bearer may carry an alternative item, such as a sign or a box with fake rings, especially if the child is very young.

While the role of the ring bearer is traditionally given to a young boy, it is not uncommon for couples to choose a girl or a non-binary person for the role. Some couples also choose to have their pets, such as dogs, act as ring bearers, adding a unique and memorable touch to the ceremony. Overall, the role of the ring bearer is an important and special part of the wedding ceremony, often bringing smiles to those in attendance.

Choosing a ring bearer

The ring bearer is a wedding party role typically given to young children, usually boys, who walk down the aisle carrying the wedding rings on a pillow. However, this role can be performed by anyone, including girls, non-binary people, adults, or even pets!

When choosing a ring bearer, it is important to consider their relationship to the couple. Typically, the ring bearer is a young family member or the child of a close friend. They might be the son of the bride, godchild of the groom, nephew, second cousin, younger sibling, or the child of the maid of honour or best man. If the couple has children, this can be a sweet way to include them in the wedding.

It is also important to consider the age of the ring bearer. Traditionally, ring bearers are between the ages of 2 and 10 years old, with 3 to 8 years being the most common age range. This ensures the child is mature enough to handle the role and can walk down the aisle on their own. If the ring bearer is too young, their parent or another adult can carry them during the processional, or they can be pulled in a wagon or small car.

The ring bearer's outfit should be coordinated with the wedding party, typically dressed similarly to the groomsmen. For example, if the groomsmen are wearing suits, the ring bearer might wear a small suit or tuxedo. The formality of the wedding and the venue and time of year should also be considered when choosing the outfit.

Finally, it is important to speak to the ring bearer's parents to ensure they are willing to take on the responsibility and to discuss any potential issues or quirks. The ring bearer's parents are typically responsible for paying for the child's outfit and accessories, as well as attending pre-wedding events and arriving early on the wedding day.

What should a ring bearer wear?

When deciding what the ring bearer should wear, it's important to keep the formality of the wedding in mind. Traditionally, ring bearers wear a small suit or tuxedo, often a miniature version of what the groom or groomsmen are wearing. This can include a dress shirt, jacket, and necktie or bow tie. If the wedding is more formal, a classic ring bearer suit is a popular choice. For a less formal or outdoor wedding, the ring bearer can wear more casual attire, such as a linen shirt, lightweight jacket, bow tie, suspenders, and shorts. If the wedding is on the beach, the ring bearer can wear a seersucker romper and a Peter Pan collared shirt or a lightweight jacket, bow tie, suspenders, and shorts.

If the ring bearer is too small for a suit or tuxedo, he can wear just the pants, a shirt, a bow tie, suspenders, and shoes. For toddlers, a tuxedo-style onesie with a clip-on bow tie is also an option, although this is less common.

The ring bearer's outfit should coordinate with the groom's or groomsmen's attire. If the groomsmen are wearing suits and ties or tuxedos, the ring bearer should wear something similar. For a pop of colour, consider having the ring bearer wear a bright-coloured suit and carry a wooden sign.

For a unique look, the ring bearer can wear something completely different from the groom and groomsmen. A festive ring bearer at a Christmas-themed wedding, for example, might wear a boutonnière of silver holly.

Don't forget to include the ring bearer's parents in the conversation about attire. It's customary for the ring bearer's parents to pay for their child's outfit, so be sure to give them options at different price points.

Does a ring bearer have to be a boy?

The role of a ring bearer is a wedding party role typically given to young children, usually boys, who are relatives or close friends of the couple. The child, often dressed like the groom and groomsmen, precedes the bride down the aisle, carrying the wedding rings on a pillow.

However, there is no requirement for the ring bearer to be a boy. The role can be performed by a girl or a non-binary person. In fact, the tradition of having a ring bearer is itself optional. Couples who choose to include a ring bearer can also consider having their pet play the role.

The tradition of having a ring bearer is believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt, when adults would carry treasured jewels on ornamental pillows during wedding ceremonies and other celebrations. In Medieval times, a young child, known as a page boy, would carry the bride's train and a book of prayers down the aisle. During this era, wealthy families replaced the presentation of rings on swords with pillows as a symbol of their riches, and the page boy was given the duty of carrying the pillow.

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