In a traditional wedding ceremony order, the vows are followed by the ring exchange. The groom usually goes first, though we invite you to be progressive. He puts the wedding band on the bride's finger while repeating a phrase like, “I give this ring as a sign of my love.” Then, it's the bride's turn.
Traditionally, the groom goes first in the exchange of rings. Although most couples choose to follow tradition, there's no rule that says you can't switch things up. If one of you is more comfortable than the other in front of an audience, then you might want that person to go first, so the other will be less nervous.
In a traditional ceremony, the ring keeper is the Best Man, and he holds the rings until called upon for the Ring Exchange in the wedding ceremony. But it doesn't have to be the Best Man; anything goes here.
Traditionally, the wedding band goes first on the finger so it's closest to the heart. To ensure the proper position, some brides temporarily move their engagement ring to their right hand. Then, after the nuptials, they return the ring to their left hand over the wedding band.
Traditionally, the groom says his vows first followed in turn by the bride. That said, some couples may choose to say them in unison to each other, and if you'd rather the bride go first, speak to your registrar or celebrant well in advance to see if it's something that can be arranged.
What Is a Ring Bearer? A ring bearer is responsible for carrying the couple's wedding rings down the aisle during the ceremony. One of the youngest members of the wedding party, the ring bearer is usually between three and eight years old.
Traditionally speaking, though, the bride's family pays for the bulk of the wedding—venue, reception, photographer, flowers, etc. As such, the mother of the bride is typically more 'in charge' of these things (along with the bride, of course) than the mother of the groom is.
Tradition has it that each person pays for the other person's ring. So in a traditional wedding, the groom or his family would pay for the bride's ring, and the bride or her family would pay for the groom's ring.
This leaves many wondering which finger their new ring should go on or if they should even be wearing their engagement ring to the ceremony. It's perfectly normal, however, to wear both the engagement ring and the wedding ring during your wedding ceremony – how you wear them is up to you.
Tradition dictates that the best man holds both wedding rings before the ceremony. Of course, if you feel more comfortable giving the rings to the maid of honor (or another member of the wedding party), go ahead and pass it off to someone you trust.
In the name of the Holy Spirit, I now solemnly declare you husband and wife. Let no one put asunder those that have been joined together today in the presence of almighty God. You may now kiss the bride.
Reasons for Passing Down Wedding Rings
By passing on a wedding ring that has been in your family for generations, it enhances the feeling that the new family you're starting is a part of that tradition and heritage. It's a way to honor and form a connection with your ancestors, linking them to your future family.
A ring warming ceremony is a tradition that involves passing around the wedding bands to guests. Upon receiving the rings, guests “warm” them up with a prayer, good wishes, or positive vibes for the couple's future together. Wedding rings are a visible symbol of a couple's commitment to one another.
The Significance of Wedding Rings
The exchange of wedding rings represents the commitment and love shared between two individuals who are building a life together. It is a symbol of the bond between them and serves as a constant reminder of their vows to one another.
A simple, effective, and subtle way to drop ring hints is to comment on other people's engagement rings. So, if your friend just got engaged and there's something you love about her ring, comment on it to your partner. For example, “John picked out such a gorgeous ring for Sarah!
The officiant can ask, “Who gives this woman to be married to this man?” The audience or her parents will answer, “She gives herself, but with her family's blessing.” If your parents are not comfortable in giving a response verbally in front of your families and friends, they can opt to answer with non-verbal cues.
Traditionally, the bride's family pays for the wedding, but that custom is rapidly changing. Couples are increasingly choosing to handle at least half of the wedding expenses on their own. Early planning and a written budget can help avoid miscommunication when deciding who pays for what.
The mother of the bride is traditionally escorted by her son if she has one. Otherwise, any close male relative, the best man, or a groomsman walks with the mother of the bride during the procession.
Traditionally, the wedding band is placed first on the left ring finger and then the engagement ring is placed on top of it. The wedding band symbolizes the bonded commitment between you and your partner, so wearing it first keeps the ring closest to the heart.
Marriage Traditions and Etiquette — According to tradition, the bride pays for the groom's wedding band along with a gift. The groom is normally the proposer, so he pays for the wedding band and engagement ring.
The Flower Girl(s) and Ring Bearer(s): The ring bearer and flower girl precede the bride down the aisle. Traditionally, the ring bearer carries the wedding rings (or decoys, if they're too little to be trusted with the real things), tied to a small pillow.