Basic Wedding Ring 411

Filed in archive Wedding Etiquette on January 26, 2007

This may seem obvious to most people - but I am quite surprised by how often a bride has asked me "Which ring goes on the finger first - Engagement ring or wedding band?" and similar questions. So, I will start off our etiquette section with some basic ring etiquette. Let's start right at the beginning:


"Is an engagement ring required for an engagement to be official?"

Well, no - in some cultures, rings have nothing at all to do with it. An engagement is official when both parties agree to become engaged. This may be before the ring is purchased and many couples today shop for the engagement ring together after the proposal.

"What finger do you wear the engagement ring on?"

Your ring finger is the 4th finger on the left hand.

"What is the traditional protocol for the engagement ring during the ceremony?"

Traditionally, the bride would remove the engagement ring along with any other rings before she walked down the aisle. Most brides leave the ring with the Maid of Honor or a close friend or family member so they can slip it back on right after the ceremony.

"Which ring goes on the finger first - engagement ring or wedding band?"

Traditionally - the wedding band goes first. Some people disagree, saying they go in the order you receive them. Traditionally, a bride was to remove the engagement ring prior to the ceremony so that the wedding band can be placed on a bare finger. It was believed that the veins in the ring finger make a direct line to the heart, and the wedding ring goes first, closest to the heart.

"What is an anniversary band?"

Many people are confused about this and that is because it is not a traditional ring, as much as it is a style choice. An anniversary ring is usually the same as or similar to the wedding band and is worn after the engagement ring for a complete set. It is called the anniversary band because many couples choice to use it as a 1st anniversary gift.