The Story Behind With This Ring I Thee Wedd Ceremonies
Almost 30 years ago when I first started officiating weddings, I named my business “With This Ring I Thee Wedd.” At the time, I thought these words were romantic and conveyed the tradition of exchanging wedding rings symbolizing a life long commitment to another human being. It wasn’t until I was well entrenched as a wedding officiant and attending bridal showcases that I realized my business can be mistaken for a jeweler!
As result, I decided to I add the word ceremonies to my business name about three years ago making the full name of my business, With This Ring I Thee Wedd Ceremonies, LLC!
Ever Wonder About How The Exchange of Wedding Rings Came About?
Since we are on the subject of rings, let’s talk about rings. The exchange of wedding rings dates back 3000 years. Egyptian pharaohs were the first to use rings to represent eternity. Why? Because a circle has no beginning and no end. During my wedding ceremonies, I talk about the rings having no beginning and no end just as the couple’s love for each other has no beginning and no end.
If I’m the one holding the rings just before the exchange, I always send up a special wish for the couple’s marriage. But if I’m not the one holding the rings, who has the rings? This varies couple by couple. Traditionally, the best person and person of honor have the wedding rings. Usually, I suggest that the best person hold both rings so the person of honor is free to assist the bride with her flowers and/or dress and veil. As a way to incorporate the parents, especially if there are no attendants, I will suggest that both sets of parents come forward with the rings. I’ve also suggested grandparents be the “ring bearers.” One of my favorite designees is the family dog!
Are you aware of the various ring rituals that couples incorporate into their ceremony? One of my favorite rituals is the ring warming ceremony. The rings are held in the wedding officiant’s palm and the guests are invited to offer up a silent wish, prayer or positive vibe for the success of the couple’s marriage. Recently while researching Hawaiian customs for one of my couples, I learned about the ring washing ceremony. The wedding rings are “washed” before the couple exchanges them. The water is meant to refresh the rings for the couple’s new beginning and new life together. There are so many creative ways to personalize you wedding ceremony. Use the vast experience of your vendor team to make your wedding what you want it express!!
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