Ah, the wedding ceremony! A symphony of emotions, a kaleidoscope of colors, and a moment filled with promises whispered under the Florida sun (or perhaps the twinkling lights of an Orlando ballroom). But amidst the vows, the music, and the occasional happy tear, there's one crucial detail that often gets overlooked: who holds the wedding rings?

Fear not, lovebirds and stressed-out wedding planners! This seemingly small detail can actually be a fun and meaningful aspect of your ceremony. Today, we'll delve into the world of ring bearers (and bearers-to-be), exploring 5 unique options to ensure those precious circles of gold (or platinum, or whatever your taste may be) make their grand entrance at precisely the right moment.

Before we begin, a word of caution: While the sight of a cherubic toddler toddling down the aisle with a pillow clutched in their tiny hands might be undeniably adorable, it's important to remember that the real wedding rings are valuable and irreplaceable.

So, while I encourage you to get creative and involve special individuals in your ceremony, I strongly advise against entrusting the actual rings to little ones. Instead, consider using beautiful ring boxes, decorative pillows, or even custom-made pouches to hold decoy rings for the little ones to carry. Now, onto the fun part!

5 Options for Your Ring Bearer (or Bearer-in-Spirit):

1. The Classic Choice: The Beloved Best Man

This is the tried-and-true option. The best man, being your closest confidante and fellow adventurer, is a safe and reliable choice.

Pros: He'll likely be standing right next to you anyway, ensuring a smooth handoff during the ceremony. Plus, it's a timeless tradition that many couples find comforting.

Cons: Don't be surprised if he uses the opportunity to crack a few jokes at your expense during his toast later (but hey, that's what best men are for, right?).

Wedding rings before a wedding ceremony begins in Orlando, FL

2. The Modern Twist: The Maid of Honor

Equality reigns supreme in modern weddings, and the Maid of Honor is more than just the "bridesmaid with a cape." Entrusting her with the rings empowers your ceremony and sends a powerful message about shared responsibility and friendship.

Pros: It adds a touch of modern flair to your ceremony, and who knows, your Maid of Honor might even have some hidden organizational skills that come in handy when it comes to ensuring the rings arrive on time.

Cons: If the best man and Maid of Honor are on opposite sides of the aisle, a well-coordinated handoff is crucial to avoid any awkward shuffling during the ceremony.

3. The Family Connection: A Sibling or Close Relative

There's something special about involving family members in your wedding ceremony. Be it a younger brother, a favorite cousin, or even a beloved aunt, entrusting a cherished family member with the rings adds a personal touch and signifies the importance of family in your life together.

Pros: It's a meaningful way to include loved ones in your special day and creates a lasting memory for them as well. Plus, your family member will likely be incredibly honored and excited to be involved.

Cons: Similar to the best man scenario, be prepared for some lighthearted teasing or inside jokes later on. Just remember, it's all in good fun (hopefully)!

4. The Furry Friend Factor: The Pet Ring Bearer (with a Twist)

Bride with her two dogs who were her ring bearers in her wedding ceremony in Orlando, FL — **Dogs Can Be in The Ceremony!**

Adding your pets to the ceremony whether they are your ring bearers or not is a great way to personalize.

Let's face it, our pets are often more than just companions; they're family. So, why not include them in your wedding celebration? Now, before you envision Fido sprinting down the aisle with rings dangling from his collar, remember the decoy ring advice.

Instead, consider having a specially-designed harness or bandana for your furry friend to wear, symbolizing their inclusion in your special day. You can even get creative and have them walk down the aisle with a miniature ring box (empty, of course!) attached to their leash.

Pros: It's a unique and adorable way to involve your beloved pet in the ceremony, and who wouldn't love to see some canine cuteness on their wedding day?

Cons: Be prepared for the possibility of unexpected barks or even the occasional "bathroom break" detour. Remember, animals are unpredictable, so have a backup plan in case things don't go exactly as rehearsed.

5. The DIY Option: The No-Bearer Approach

If you're looking for Mr. or Ms. Right.

Guy Swenson - Your Partner in your Perfect Wedding Ceremony

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but Guy Swenson is here to make sure the details are just right. I don't just marry people; I create unforgettable experiences filled with laughter and tears. So, once you are ready to go, let's chat about crafting a ceremony that reflects your unique love story.

About Guy Swenson

Guy Swenson is a professional wedding officiant for Guy Thee Wed, LLC. He loves marrying amazing couples! Check him out on Instagram @GuyTheeWed

The Ring Bearer: Guardians of the Most Important Bling (But Not Literally)