The ring bearer is always one of the most adorable members of any wedding party. The origins of the role actually have their roots in ancient Egypt, where a young boy would be enlisted to carry rings to a couple as a symbol of love, fidelity, and fertility. While the role still includes the all-important task of getting the wedding bands down the aisle, today, it’s more of an excuse to bring a sweet touch to your wedding and include a beloved young family member or friend in your special day. While it is not a required role in the wedding party, the ring bearer can be a crowd favorite at the ceremony—without taking the spotlight away from you and your spouse-to-be, of course.

Want to know the ins and outs before you ask a ring bearer to join your celebration? Read ahead to get a breakdown of what a ring bearer’s responsibilities are—and who can take on this special role.

Who Can Be a Ring Bearer

The role of the ring bearer may still have an air of tradition, but it can also vary based on the couple. Typically, the ring bearer is a young boy or girl and is either the couple’s own child, a relative, or a close family friend. Their main responsibility is to carry the wedding rings down the aisle, usually on a decorative pillow or in a small box. The rings will then be held by either the best man or the officiant for safekeeping until it is time for the couple to exchange the wedding bands. Depending on the couple’s preferences, they can stay near them with the rest of the wedding party as they exchange vows or could go back to sit with their guardians after the rings are delivered.

While there are no strict rules regarding ring bearer age, most are between the years of three and eight—where they would be old enough to walk easily down the aisle but still maintain the charm the role requires. Of course, a ring bearer doesn’t necessarily have to be a young child. A few couples may change up tradition by asking a grandmother or grandfather to carry rings down the aisle, have a friend take on the challenge as a humorous song plays, or even have their dog or cat serve as an honorary ring bearer for the celebration.