What is a Ring Warming Ceremony?
Posted by Georgina Bennett on 12th Oct 2016
A ring warming ceremony involves having your wedding guests hold your wedding rings either before or during your ceremony. As each wedding guest holds your rings, they pass their blessings and give good luck and wishes for your marriage.
Variations:
Often the rings are passed from guest to guest during the ceremony, then returned to the couple to exchange. If you have a larger wedding, you may prefer to set up a table for guests to give their wishes as they enter the ceremony area. You may wish for all guests to participate in your ring warming ceremony. Alternatively, you may select just your closest guests, such as family and special friends to participate as part of the ceremony.
Things to Remember:
Organise someone to be in charge of the rings to help pass them around the guests. This is the ensure they then return safely to the bride and groom for the exchange of the rings. Also keep in mind how long it will take for the rings to be passed around guests to allocate enough time as part of your wedding ceremony. Many guests may also be unsure about what is involved in a ring warming ceremony. Inform them by having your celebrant or MC explain the process, or you may prefer to give an information card as part of your wedding invitations.
Example Wording (for a sign at the entrance or for your celebrant to explain):
Hold the rings in your hand for a moment. Warm them with your love and make a silent wish for ____ and ____, one that will carry them into a bright and lasting marriage.
A ring warming ceremony is a lovely way of involving your loved ones in your ceremony. It also means your wedding rings are even more meaningful, as your family and friends have all given their good wishes to them.
