From the moment a couple gets engaged, their lives are full of rituals, from bachelor and bachelorette parties, to the first dance. Some of these rituals connect us with each other, are inspired by family , while others, like the garter toss, are losing their popularity among couples. Modern brides and grooms are creating new heartfelt traditions as they walk down the aisle . But some wedding staples, like a special dress, a cake, and the exchange of rings, remain as popular as ever, with a few caveats.
More brides are wearing colored wedding dresses, giving their wedding cakes a makeover , and choosing ring tattoos over sparkly jewels when they say “I do.” Getting a tattoo is a beautiful way to express love , whether romantic or otherwise. But finding a wedding ring tattoo to never want to part with? That is almost as hard finding the right person to marry. Some ring tattoos are full of ancient symbolism, like the laurel wreath, while others trace family history or have personal meaning to the couple. Some showcase the bride or groom’s personal style. Whatever it is that a bride or groom is looking for in a ring, these 20 wedding ring tattoos are sure to spark some inspiration.
Love Arrow
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Courtney Davis (@courtney_nicole91) on May 30, 2019 at 4:08pm PDT
This encircling arrow by Night Wolf Tattoo  lets everyone know that Cupid’s a good shot.
A Subtle Bow
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kaylee Hansen (@kaylee_j_hansen) on Jul 31, 2015 at 1:08pm PDT
Is there a better way to celebrate tying the knot?
Scrollwork
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Skin Illustrations (@skinillustrations) on Dec 7, 2017 at 4:10pm PST
This tattoo ring is perfect for a fan of delicate jewelry who wants the ring tattoo to match her style.
Swallow in Flight
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anna B. Nana (@anna_b_nana) on Oct 8, 2014 at 8:30am PDT
What better way to express how love uplifts us and takes us to new heights than with a soaring bird?
Minimalist Flower
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Masa_tattooer (@masa_tattooer) on May 16, 2018 at 9:14pm PDT
The simplicity of this tattoo feels like a fresh, budding start.
Simple Heart
CokaPoka/iStock
Keep things simple with a linework heart. This kind of heart tattoo can be really special if it features a heart drawn by your partner.
Matching Diamonds
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hell_yeah_weddings (@hellyeahweddings) on Feb 21, 2016 at 12:20pm PST
Like yin and yang, these black and white geometric tattoos can symbolize balance in a relationship.
A Pair of Trees
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Portland Maine Tattoo Artist (@sharkmarzza) on Feb 15, 2019 at 2:12pm PST
These matching evergreens are a reminder to take root in each other and grow.
Infinity Symbol
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Charlotte Epright (@chickychai) on May 17, 2019 at 6:31pm PDT
The infinity symbol is a popular choice for wedding ring tattoos, but this one stands out because of the delicate leaf embellishments, which make the design feel personal.
Celtic Design
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Megan Hodge (@cmhtattoos) on Apr 16, 2019 at 11:33am PDT
If either partner has Irish, Welsh, or Scottish roots, this Celtic knot is a way to celebrate that family history.
Spell It Out
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carl (@carl_tattooist) on Jul 20, 2018 at 6:10pm PDT
A promise ring of sorts, the tiny script on this ring tattoo is a good reminder of vows taken.
Tie The Knot
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elite Custom Tattooing (@elitetattooing) on Jun 27, 2018 at 12:10pm PDT
Unlike with a bow or a Celtic knot, there’s no subtlety with these ropes. If a couple enjoys sailing or met on a cruise, this ring tattoo could have even more meaning for them.
Bold Heart
A bold heart placed lower on the ring finger allows space for an engagement ring or wedding band in addition to the tattoo.
Crowing Glory
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mike C. (@mr.crow_ort) on Feb 11, 2017 at 6:59pm PST
Half the battle of a healthy marriage is remembering to treat each other with reverence, even when things get hard. A royal tattoo will remind newlyweds that they are the kings and queens of each other’s hearts.
Laurel Wreath
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scott Cook (@scotty_robotty) on Oct 26, 2016 at 9:25pm PDT
Laurel wreaths were used in Ancient Greece and Rome to crown the heads of victorious athletes, generals, and even poets. The laurel is an evergreen tree, which symbolizes immortality.
Treble Clef
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Even if they’re not musicians, music is a part of so many couples’ stories, from the song that was playing when they met, to their first dance as a married couple.
Riding the Wave
View this post on Instagram A post shared by E M I L Y G R E E N (@emilyrgreen86)
Relationships are like waves — there are a lot of ups and downs. Riding that wave together can be a beautiful thing.
Graphic Bling
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sarah Armes-Rouen (@sararoo_x)
Carats that won’t weigh a woman down! A tattoo ring also a practical choice for people who work with their hands.
King & Queen
View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@phenomimom)
This design is perfect for anyone who loves playing cards — the King and Queen can exemplify a powerful relationship.
Simple Lines
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Byron Bay Celebrant (@modern_love_celebrant)
When it comes to tattoos, sometimes simple is best! These ring tattoos are just lines that wrap around the finger, much like an actual wedding band.
