A ring bearer is responsible for presenting the wedding rings to the bride and groom. The tradition dates back to ancient Egypt and is often fulfilled by a young family member. The rings are usually carried on a cushion, and the bearer is often dressed similarly to the groomsmen. It’s a great way to involve children in the wedding ceremony and teach them about its importance. Etiquette suggests involving the ring bearer in the trial process and giving them a small gift as thanks.
A ring bearer, or page, is an attendee of a wedding charged with presenting the bride and groom with their wedding rings. Often, this part is played by a guy who is a relative of the bride or groom, but it can also fall to the better man to carry the rings. If using a child, the rings are usually worn on a large ornamental cushion as a symbolic gesture.
The history of using a ring pillow dates back to ancient Egyptian weddings, when jewelry was displayed on rare ornamental pillows during a wedding. As it became common in Europe to exchange wedding rings, the ring bearer became an important part of the ceremony. The two traditions merged, leading to the pillow being used as a container for carrying rings.
If you’d like to have a ring bearer at your wedding, it’s common to ask a young family member. Typically, ring bearers are between the ages of 6 and 10, with older boys being appointed ushers or groomsmen. Ring bearers are usually matched with flower girls, who are around the same age. They often walk down the aisle together during the entrance ceremony.
Some couples who choose to have a ring bearer make the job a ritual rather than a functional task. Instead of entrusting their real wedding rings to a child, they instead sew fake rings onto the pillow for the bearer to wear. In these cases, the actual rings are usually worn by the best man or bridesmaid. If real rings are placed on the pillow, they are often attached or secured in some way to prevent them from being lost.
Most couples choose to dress the ring bearers in an outfit similar to that worn by the groomsmen. If it is impractical or impossible to find similar suits in small sizes, it may be sufficient to let the boy wear a tie, cummerbund or bracelet that matches the groom’s attire. In some cases, ring bearers will be formally dressed as a page, wearing traditional period costume. This variation is often seen in Renaissance themed or extremely formal weddings. If you choose to dress your ring bearer for the ceremony, you may want to ensure that he or she has a comfortable change of clothes for the reception.
Having a ring bearer is a great way to involve young family members in the wedding ceremony and to teach them the importance of a wedding. If the bride or groom has a child from a previous relationship or a much younger sibling, this gives the child a chance to feel involved in the process. It can also help ward off jealousy over girls who become flower girls or junior bridesmaids.
Etiquette suggests that the ring bearer should be involved in the trial process. This opportunity to practice can help your child feel comfortable in the role and familiarize themselves with the procedures of marriage. The bride or groom may wish to give the ring bearer a small gift as thanks for their help.
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