Humanist Wedding Vows

What You Need To Know About Wedding Rings

There is so much significance behind wedding rings. They symbolize unity, love, faithfulness, devotion, and much more. Behind every couple s wedding rings are stories of how they got engaged, wedding memories, and unique ideas. Aside from being eye catching and beautiful wedding rings convey so many messages. Not only do these messages differ between each couple, but they also vary based on cultural background and ethnic customs.

The Customs Behind Wedding Rings

Most people know the basics behind wedding rings. The wedding band is worn on the ring finger. But depending on where you live, it can be worn on the left or the right hand. In Western countries people where wedding rings on the left hand, whereas in Russia, Germany, Bulgaria, Norway, Poland, and other countries, they are worn on the right hand. The ring finger was once believed to have the vein of love and so that is how the tradition of wearing it on this finger began.

In Western culture, wedding rings are gifts exchanged between the couple on their wedding day and often an engagement ring is presented to the woman when the man proposes. Other cultures exchange wedding rings at other times.

A European custom for wedding rings is to have the spouses name and the wedding date engraved on the inside of the bands. That way the ring not only symbolizes the marriage union, but also their commitment to one another.

In some cultures, the best man is in charge of taking care of the wedding rings. He will then present them to the couple at the time they exchange their vows. Many see that this is the best man s primary job; to act as protector of the wedding rings. In other cultures it is the job of the ring bearer to bring forth the wedding rings on a pillow. Typically a young boy is chosen for this job and usually he is selected from the relatives of the couple.

So if you are looking to get a wedding ring, think of the meaning and traditions behind the wedding rings. Then consider what the wedding rings for you and your future spouse will symbolize in your relationship.