What Does the Ring-Bearer Carry?

Keep those precious rings safe!

The three-year-old nephew or seven-year-old cousin is going to be the ring bearer.  He will be almost painfully cute in his suit, bow tie, and boutonniere.  He’ll carry a lacy, satin pillow.  But what will be on that pillow?

Many people assume that the actual, real wedding rings are on that ring-bearer’s pillow, tied to it with the satin ribbons provided for the purpose.  My unwavering advice is never, ever to let a young child carry the real wedding rings.  It’s a lovely tradition to have a small child ceremonially bring the rings to the couple.  In reality, it is a much better idea to have the rings safely in the pocket of a responsible adult, such as the best man or the officiant.

If you are concerned about appearances, you can put a couple of cheap rings on the pillow instead, but in my experience no one is paying attention to details like that.  They are much more interested in seeing the radiant bride(s) or the happy groom(s).