I think I’ve mentioned once or twice how much I loathe white satin at weddings. Now, that’s not to say that the sight of any little bit of it makes me cringe. In small doses, it’s quite lovely, actually. But for the most part, white satin is dreadfully overused (don’t believe me? Do a Google image search for “wedding accessories” and prepare yourself for a barrage of shiny white blandness).
White satin is everywhere when it comes to bridal. Bridal stores and websites are bursting at the seams with the stuff. While it might be nice as a dress, or a sash, or as a little bow embellishment, white satin purses, ring bearer pillows, and flower girl baskets drive me bonkers! They’re so boring! With a world full of amazing textures and colors to choose from, why choose something with so little personality?
Today I’m going to focus on ring bearer pillows (and I use the term “pillow” very loosely, since many of these finds aren’t pillows at all). Each one I’ve found has its own distinct personality… made one will fit yours!
The first piece I have for you today is perfect for fall—and it’s not a pillow at all! The goodies over at Bragging Bags have been featured here often because their handmade rustic creations are so unique. This white pumpkin ring bearer “pillow” (above left) is no different. An awesome ode to autumn harvest, it also brings to mind Cinderella and her pumpkin coach. A cute and fun twist on what’s expected.
Another choice that’s great for fall is this cool natural burlap pillow with antique lace (above right) from Grace Art and Antiques. The juxtaposition of the rough and rugged burlap and the oh-so feminine lace is just awesome. It would be great for a rustic or outdoor wedding and its muted color palette would work nicely with just about any colors you choose!
Another piece with a rustic feel that I just adore is this cute handmade birch bark and moss ring bearer’s box (above) from New Hampshire Woods Creations. Made with all natural wood and moss, this box would be gorgeous at a wedding where nature plays a big role. Whether you’re getting married outdoors or your trying to create a whimsical, woodsy feeling, this box is perfect.
This next piece is a totally sleek and modern approach to the ring bearer’s pillow: a dish! This really unique piece by Paloma’s Nest is awesome for so many reasons. Not only does it give you a really modern option,
but it comes with two little holes at the top to tie a ribbon through to hold the rings during the ceremony. These little holes also give it a lot of versatility in its life after your wedding. You can tie a ribbon through it and hang it from your wall or on your Christmas tree. You can make a pretty little bow and use it to hold jewelry or your keys. There are so many fantastic ways to make this dish a part of your daily life—you can’t say the same for an ugly white satin pillow!
Another great piece that you can totally reuse is the embroidered ring bearer hoop by Miniature Rhino. 
Hand-embroidered with your name (or a short quote, perhaps?), this highly personalized piece can hang somewhere special in your home. I also love that the designer includes custom typewritten text (created with a vintage typewriter!) on the back. Isn’t that a sweet little detail?
For the word nerds out there or for anyone who’s into vintage or eco-friendly choices, the ring bearer bookstack by The Dainty Woods is a great option. Made from vintage books that are wrapped with a vintage ribbon and embellished with feathers and a pearl and gold button, this upcycled creation is super unique. Love it!
This next piece is great for those of you planning summery, beach-themed affairs. Blume Bloom offers a pretty lions paw seashell that’s accented with white silk blossoms and a white satin ribbon to tie your rings to (I told you white satin was ok in a small dose!). I love this idea! It fits a beach wedding so well and is still so unique.
My next pick is this vintage fire truck from Joann Ray Designs. Available in white, red or sandblasted metal (shown), this is such a fun option! You don’t have to worry about the littlest fella in your wedding party losing interest in his charge and it’s great for firefighters! I also think it would work well in just 
about any vintage themed wedding. It’s a really cool conversation piece that is sure to grab the attention of your guests!
Last but not least, I have another pillow. Much like the first one I showed you, this pillow has a great texture. Made from an upcycled winter blue sweater, this piece by Lillian’s Garden is so soft and cozy looking, I just want to snuggle right up to it! Eco-friendly and really original (how many knit ring bearer pillows have you seen?), this cute piece is great for those of you planning a winter wedding. Another bonus? This icy blue is hot, hot, hot for winter!
I hope that one of these diverse choices have sparked your imagination in some way and that you consider an alternative to those ubiquitous (cough, boring) white satin pillows!
Jennifer Garry is a writer and accessories designer living in Westchester, NY with her husband and daughter. When she's not up to her ears in kiddie crafts, you can find her swimming in a pool of beads. Her obsessions include tea, chocolate, sarcasm and her daughter's giggle--any of which can be used to coax her from her little jewelry-making fantasy world.