When it comes to the big question of who carries the rings down the aisle, there are a few different options. Traditionally, the ring bearer is responsible for carrying both rings down the aisle. But some couples are choosing to have the best man or maid of honor carry one ring instead. So what’s the best option for you? And what is a ring bearer, anyway? Keep reading to find out!
What is a ring bearer?
The term “ring bearer” refers to the little boy or girl who carries both rings down the aisle in some wedding ceremonies. The young person typically walks on an aisle runner, often with lighted candles on a tray attached to the back of his or her outfit. The ring bearer is often chosen from the bride’s and groom’s younger siblings, nieces and nephews, or sons and daughters of particularly close family friends.
Ring bearers are usually between four and eight years old, but older children can sometimes serve in this role as well. The ring bearer’s duties include carrying the rings down the aisle, handing them off to an usher or clergy member, and sometimes presenting one of the rings to the best man or maid of honor. Some couples choose to forgo the tradition of having a ring bearer and have one of the groomsmen or bridesmaids carry the rings instead. Ring bearers are a fun and charming part of many weddings.
Does the ring bearer carry both rings?
Traditionally, the ring bearer is responsible for carrying both of the wedding rings down the aisle. This task usually falls to the youngest member of the bridal party, who is typically between the ages of four and eight years old.
The ring bearer’s duties don’t stop at simply carrying the rings. He or she may also be responsible for handing the rings to the clergy or an usher, who will present them to the bridal party at the appropriate time.
In most cases, a ring bearer does not hold onto both of the rings until they are needed by one of the bridesmaids or groomsmen. In fact, it is typically considered acceptable protocol for the ring bearer to give one of the rings to the best man or maid of honor just before the exchange of vows.
This tradition can be traced back to the days when rings were considered symbols of ownership. By giving one of the rings to a member of the bridal party, the ring bearer was essentially putting it into safekeeping until it was needed by the bride and groom.
There are some couples who choose to forgo the tradition of having a ring bearer, but that doesn’t mean that the rings won’t make it down the aisle. Many couples elect to have one of the groomsmen or bridesmaids carry the rings instead.
When do ring bearers walk down the aisle?
The ring bearer usually walks down the aisle before the bride, often with a flower girl. However, there is no hard and fast rule and it can depend on the order of the ceremony.
Does the ring bearer have to be a boy?
No. The ring bearer is the small child who carries the wedding rings down the aisle while walking in front of the bridal party. Traditionally, it’s a young boy, but many couples have chosen to change that tradition by using a flower girl or other female figure to carry one or both of the wedding bands.
Typically, the ring bearer is a young child who is tasked with carrying both rings down the aisle. However, if you don’t have any young children available, you can also ask a close friend or family member to perform this role.
Do you need a ring bearer?
If you’re not sure whether you need a ring bearer, consult your wedding planner or venue coordinator. Most venues will have a list of preferred vendors they recommend for certain services, and a ring bearer may be included.
Your wedding planner can help to make sure the rings are presented in an orderly fashion and that everything runs smoothly on your big day. Plus, your planner can make recommendations based on their vendor knowledge. If you don’t, have a wedding planner, ask friends or family if they know anyone who could be a ring bearer.
If you’re still having trouble finding someone to carry the rings, consider using a flower girl instead. She can also scatter petals down the aisle as she walks.
