Having a hard time deciding on a ring bearer pillow for your upcoming wedding? You may not be alone. With the ever increasing number of ring pillow designs, prospective brides are finding that this wedding ceremony staple isn’t just a square cushion with a bow anymore. Let’s take a look at some of the latest trends in ring pillow styles.

Peacock Feathers. Who would have thought that ring pillows would be adorned with, of all things, peacock feathers? At times these vividly-hued embellishments are placed on a ring pillow of a matching solid color. Or, the feathers are paired beautifully with ring pillows in neutral colors, such as white, ivory, navy or black. Perhaps, a more interesting look would be that of a ring pillow in a color that is neither neutral, nor similar to the peacock feathers’ colors. For instance, imagine the feathers with their rich blues and greens atop a ring pillow in torrid orange, royal purple or bright yellow? Different, to say the least!

Flowers. Love flowers? Then you’ll love a ring bearer pillow that features one big and bold bloom, positioned front and center. Any bride-to-be will find it easy to accommodate her wedding color scheme with this style of ring pillow, since silk and craft flowers are available in just about a full spectrum of colors, shades and hues. If you like the basic idea of this style, but prefer a smaller flower, then simply choose a bloom that’s not as large as those traditionally used for this design. In addition to the huge color selection of silk flowers, there is also usually a choice of bloom sizes, from about the width of a tennis ball to the width of a soccer ball that actually covers the whole pillow! Really, the possibilities are endless when you consider the combinations of flowers (size and color) and ring pillows (size, shape and color) open to you.

Rhinestones or "Crystals." Maybe a ring pillow with a little "bling" is right for you. On the surface, the thought of having rhinestones on a ring pillow might sound gaudy to some. However, the trick is to not overdo it. Whereas a "Hollywood star" bride-to-be may be quite comfortable with a ring pillow covered corner-to-corner with rhinestones and all the sparkle that goes with it, most prospective brides would prefer the more simple, yet elegant look of a ring pillow with just one centered rhinestone or crystal decoration. Even a few well-placed small crystals can deliver enough shine to be nicely noticed, while not appearing too flashy. A ring pillow with a bow can go from ordinary to extraordinary when a rhinestone embellishment is carefully placed so that it covers just the knot of the bow. More and more bridal shops are offering customers at least some types of ring pillows and matching wedding accessories with various rhinestone and/or crystal enhancements.

Personalized. Today it’s easier than ever before to have your ring bearer pillow personalized. As with the other trends mentioned earlier in this article, there are a number of ways to go about personalizing the ring pillow. Some vendors offer a silver- or goldtone metal charm with the couple’s names and wedding date engraved on it, which will then be attached to the ring pillow. Other sellers offer to personalize by embroidering either the couple’s monogram, or their first names and wedding date right onto the ring pillow. Most of these shops will customize the personalization to exactly what the couple wants on the ring pillow, provided there is enough space for the number of characters. That’s why, in most cases, only the first names are used. If you are one of those future brides who want a ring pillow that truly has "that special touch," one of the styles of personalizing may be just what you’re looking for.

These are only a few of the modern trends in ring pillows. After considering what’s new on the market out there, hopefully, your search for the perfect ring pillow for your special day will be a little easier.

From the charming veil atop her head to the elegant guest book awaiting attendees’ signatures, a bride's beautiful accessories can certainly add to the enjoyment of all during the wedding day festivities. Let's take a look at just one bridal accessory--the ring bearer pillow.

A ring bearer pillow, or ring pillow, for short, can come in various shapes and sizes. Some of the more common shapes are round, heart-shaped, square and rectangular. There is no set rule for what form a pillow should take. The size of a ring pillow depends on the wishes of the bride. Most ring pillows will measure between 6 to 10 inches, the vast majority being approximately 7 or 8 inches square.

What about color? A bride needs only to look to her overall wedding color scheme for the perfect solution. She can choose a pillow in a neutral white or ivory background, with accents in her wedding colors. An increasing number of brides are combining bright or bold colors, leaving out the whites and/or ivories for a non-traditional, modern look. To add to the mix, it is no longer considered unusual for accessories to come in prints, such as, polka-dots or damask. If the print is of neutral colors, for example, black and white damask, then it can be attractively paired with the bride’s accent color, no matter what that color may be!

Available styles of ring pillows are as diverse as the individual brides who will use them. From formal bridal satins, silks and laces, to informal denims or ginghams--a bride can surely find a ring pillow that matches her personal style.

Embellishments are another way that brides can make ring pillows uniquely theirs. Some prefer the simple elegance of a satin ribbon tied in a beautifully shaped bow. Hearts are a timeless symbol of love, and can be added in sparkly silver- or gold-tone. A rhinestone heart can be paired with satin or silk for a look that's right for any special occasion.

Themed weddings are becoming more popular, and an easy way to carry the theme forward is to use an appropriately designed ring pillow. Case in point: For a beach-themed wedding, a ring pillow in ivory, sand and ocean hues with sea shells or starfish decorations attached, will make the perfect lake-, sea- or ocean-side bridal accessory.

How do you obtain your ideal ring pillow? Some department stores stock these items in, mainly, white or ivory with little or no color accents. Bridal boutiques are another option open to brides, offering ring pillows in a greater variety of styles and colors than the department store. A third choice open to brides is online bridal shops. At a growing number of these internet wedding sites, ring pillows and matching accessories can be customized to fit the bride’s style and color needs.

Secure your rings to the accessory made just for that purpose--the ring bearer pillow. Whether you choose to purchase one that’s ready-made or one tailored just for you, allow the main focus to be on the new relationship being entered and enjoying your special day!