^{Image Courtesy of Heather Wrigley Photography}

For Latter-day Saint couples who marry in the temple, exchanging rings isn’t part of the actual sealing ordinance. But many couples still wish to share this meaningful moment—and give family and friends a chance to witness part of their sacred day.

That’s where a ring ceremony comes in.

Whether held right before the reception or during it, a ring ceremony offers a beautiful, reverent way to honor your love, include those who couldn’t attend the temple, and reflect your shared commitment in a setting of joy and warmth.

Let’s walk through the “why,” the “how,” and some simple ideas to help you create a Christ-centered ring ceremony that uplifts everyone involved.

Why Consider a Ring Ceremony?

There are several heartfelt reasons why LDS couples choose to hold a separate ring ceremony after their temple sealing:

• It allows special loved ones to be part of the celebration

• It includes family and friends who couldn’t attend the temple sealing

• It offers a photo-friendly moment for guests to witness and remember

• It honors those who’ve supported your relationship with love and inclusion

For part-member families or those with non-member parents, a ring ceremony can help bridge that gap. While the ring itself is only a symbol of the eternal covenants already made in the temple, the act of exchanging it publicly can offer healing, joy, and connection—without overshadowing the sacredness of the sealing itself.

What Church Leaders Have Said

While ring ceremonies are not part of the sealing and should not take place on temple grounds, couples are welcome to plan a separate, respectful ring exchange in another location—typically at the reception venue.

The Church has offered a few guidelines over the years to help couples approach the ring ceremony with spiritual sensitivity:

“The circumstances should be consistent with the dignity of [the] temple marriage. The exchange should not appear to replicate any part of the marriage ceremony. For instance, there should be no exchanging of vows on that occasion.”
— Church Statement, 1984

“The sanctity and impressiveness of the [sealing] marriage ceremony should not be overshadowed by any other procedure.”
— New Era, 1987

In other words: Keep it reverent, keep it joyful, and keep it clear that your eternal covenants were made in the temple.

How to Plan a Ring Ceremony That Reflects You

There’s no one “right way” to do a ring ceremony—but here’s a simple outline many couples have found helpful. Most last between 10–20 minutes and flow naturally into the reception celebration:

Sample Ring Ceremony Program:

• Opening Prayer (by a parent, bishop, or close friend)

• Special Musical Number (optional, by a sibling or friend)

• Short Talk about temple sealings and eternal marriage (3–5 minutes, great for non-member guests)

• Brief Remarks by a few loved ones (keep it short and heartfelt)

• Bride Shares Her Feelings for the groom

• Groom Shares His Feelings for the bride

• Exchange of Rings

• Closing Prayer

No wedding vows. No “giving away the bride.” Just a simple and sacred moment to express your love—and include those who love you most.

Who Should Lead the Ring Ceremony?

This is up to you. Some couples invite a bishop to preside, especially if he knows both families. Others ask a trusted family member or friend to lead. Since it’s not a legal or ecclesiastical ordinance, the person leading does not need to hold the priesthood or be licensed to officiate weddings. Just someone you love and trust.

FAQs from Real Brides & Grooms

“Can we have the ring ceremony before the reception?”
Yes! Many couples hold it right before the reception begins, allowing all guests to arrive and participate.

“Can we walk down the aisle?”
Absolutely. A simple processional with music can be a beautiful way to start the moment.

“What should non-member guests wear?”
Think of it like any other wedding event: modest, respectful, and season-appropriate. (Summer dress or suit and tie are great.)

“Can we personalize it?”
Yes! This is your moment to express your faith, your love, and your gratitude for family. Include what feels meaningful—and leave out what doesn’t.

Words from the LDS Community

“What a beautiful idea. I’d never heard of a ring ceremony before—but now I hope my son and his fiancée include one. It’s a sweet way to include us.”
— Stargazer, LDS mom in California

“My fiancé and I are planning a Payson temple sealing and were so grateful to find your ring ceremony outline. We’re using it right before the reception.”
— Carson C.

“Does it have to be a priesthood holder?”
Nope. You can invite a bishop, parent, or anyone who knows you well to guide this moment.

Final Thoughts

As long as your ring ceremony isn’t held on temple grounds, doesn’t overshadow the sacred sealing, and isn’t presented as a second wedding, you’re free to plan a meaningful, joyful moment that reflects your love and includes those who matter most. If you're planning a temple wedding and wondering how to include your loved ones in a meaningful way, a ring ceremony might be the perfect fit. With just a little planning and prayer, you can create a moment that’s joyful, reverent, and welcoming.

It’s a small detail—but one that can mean the world to someone who loves you.

And that’s exactly what this day is about. 💛