Wearing the engagement ring during the wedding is a question I often get asked when brides are picking up their wedding band. As is the custom in most western countries, the wedding band is the first ring on your wedding ring finger, followed by the engagement ring and then the eternity ring. In light of this though, the last thing most brides want to be thinking of when they are exchanging their vows is taking off their engagement ring.
Which hand do you wear your engagement ring on your wedding day?
Provided your hands are similar in size, most brides choose to wear their engagement ring on the right hand ring finger temporarily. Being such a special day filled with love and lifelong memories, it is certainly nice to have both rings on. In doing so, you won’t have to worry about your engagement ring as it is never too far away. It is a good idea to check how close your fingers are in size prior to the wedding day, as there is usually a half a size difference between your two hands. The last thing you want is to get the ring stuck on the wrong finger the morning of the wedding.
Maid of Honour to look after your engagement ring
Similar to the best man carrying the wedding rings, you might entrust your engagement ring with your maid of honour. If the bridesmaids’ dresses don’t have anywhere to discreetly carry the engagement ring, you might also consider giving it to the best man. It’s certainly a good idea to ask your jeweller for a jewellery pouch or something similar for the best man to carry the rings in safely, as ideally you want it to be less bulky than a ring box. Then, at an appropriate time, after you have exchanged your vows (usually just before signing the marriage certificate), add your engagement ring to your ring finger. That way you will be photo ready should your photographer choose to take a photo of your hands whilst you sign the marriage certificate.
Choose a family member to look after your engagement ring
Another nice way to include a family member that may not have a job is to give them the task of looking after your engagement ring. Consider asking your mother to hold on to your engagement ring during the ceremony. This is a lovely way of assigning the mother of the bride with a very important task on what is undoubtedly a very special day for her daughter. Another option might be a younger sister or a sister in law that may not have been heavily involved in the wedding prior.
Wedding day bracelet
If you are wearing some bridal jewellery, sometimes you might be able to clip your engagement ring into it. Much like a charm bracelet, your engagement ring will adorn your bracelet until you need it. Just be sure to check that the bracelet is secure enough, as the last thing you want to be doing is searching down the isle for your engagement ring.
However, in saying all of this, everyone is different. Ultimately, you want to feel comfortable and stress free on your wedding day, so we recommend you choose the option that works best for you. After all, it is your special day.
If you need further advice or tips for your wedding day, feel free to contact one of our team members on (07) 3210 6288. We are always on hand to help wherever we can!