Ring Warming Ritual - A Beautiful Way to Involve your Guests in your Wedding
By Mairead Vaughan, Celebrant and Solemniser
What Is a Ring Warming Ceremony?
A Ring Warming Ceremony is a meaningful wedding tradition where your wedding rings are passed among your guests before you exchange vows. As each person holds the rings, they are invited to silently offer their good wishes, prayers, or positive intentions for your marriage.
By the time the rings return to you, they are filled with the love, support, and blessings of everyone present.
This beautiful ritual creates a sense of community and connection, reminding you that your marriage is supported by those who care about you most.
The Meaning Behind Ring Warming
The symbolism of ring warming is deeply rooted in connection and intention.
Each guest becomes part of your ceremony, contributing their hopes for your future together. The rings become more than symbols of commitment — they carry the collective love, wisdom, and encouragement of your family and friends.
For couples who value meaningful traditions without religious structure, a ring warming ceremony offers a perfect balance of spirituality, inclusivity, and personal expression.
Why Choose a Ring Warming Ceremony?
A ring warming ceremony is ideal for couples who want:
A more interactive and inclusive wedding ceremony
A personalised, meaningful ritual
A non-religious or interfaith option
A way to honour family and friends
A memorable moment that reflects their values
It is especially popular in celebrant-led weddings and civil ceremonies, where couples have the freedom to design a ceremony that reflects who they are.
How Does a Ring Warming Ceremony Work?
There are several ways to include ring warming in your wedding ceremony:
1. Passing the Rings by Hand
The rings are placed in a small pouch, box, or on a ribbon and passed from guest to guest while music plays or readings are shared.
2. Warming the Rings from Your Seats
In larger ceremonies, guests remain seated and quietly send their good wishes without physically passing the rings.
3. Small Group Ring Warming
Only close family members and friends participate, making the moment more intimate and time-efficient.
As your celebrant, I guide you on the best approach based on your guest numbers and venue layout.
When Should Ring Warming Take Place?
Ring warming usually happens at the start of the ceremony. This allows the rings to return in time for the traditional ring exchange.
It can be beautifully introduced after the welcome and opening words, setting a warm, emotional tone for the rest of the ceremony.
Personalising Your Ring Warming Ceremony
You can tailor this ritual in many ways:
Use a meaningful container or heirloom box
Invite guests to silently say a prayer, wish, or affirmation
Add a short explanation from your celebrant
Combine with other rituals such as handfasting
Personal touches make this moment even more special.
How I Can Help You Include Ring Warming in Your Ceremony
As a wedding celebrant, I work closely with couples to design ceremonies that reflect their story, values, and vision. If you are interested in including a ring warming ceremony in your wedding, I can help you weave it seamlessly into your celebration.
Together, we can create a ceremony filled with warmth, intention, and lasting memories.
Contact Me
If you would like to learn more about personalising your wedding ceremony or including meaningful rituals such as ring warming, feel free to get in touch. I would be honoured to help you create a ceremony that truly reflects your love.