Exchanging Rings

Historians date the first wedding rings back to ancient Egypt, when they were considered a symbol of eternity. About 6,000 years later, wedding rings (and ring exchange wording) are still powerful symbols of the wedding ceremony and marriage.

In Western nations, wedding rings are made of precious metals such as gold, platinum, silver, titanium, or tungsten to symbolize the permanence of your marriage. Your ring exchange wording is what brings this symbolism to life.

The ring exchange is the last piece of the ceremony before the big kiss. You’re probably familiar with the most common ring exchange wording, “With this ring, I thee wed.” Along with this ever-classic phrase, there is an array of ring exchange scripts for both religious and secular ceremonies.

In a traditional wedding ceremony order, the vows are followed by the ring exchange. Partner 1 goes first, they put the wedding band on Partner 2’s finger while repeating a phrase like, “I give this ring as a sign of my love.” Then, it’s Partner 2’s turn.

Once the rings have been exchanged, the officiant makes the declaration of marriage (“I now pronounce you … ”).

Then comes the long-anticipated first kiss and your fun-fueled reception!