Ideas for an older ringbearer?

I would consider making him a best man (along with an adult) or a groomsman. He can carry the rings in his pocket and present them when it's time.

Ring Bearer is not really a good position for him. I would make him the "Boy of Honor" give him the rings and then have him stand slightly in front of the bestman so he is closest to his dad. He can then hand the rings to his dad but you are not put him in a position more apropriate for a five year old.

Alternatlively if you are doing the whole "Princess" wedding you could make him the Squire to his dad and again have him in the same position.

Ring bearer is a highly regarded position especially if he is carrying the real rings! my sons were 10 and 12 when i married my late husband and each had one of our rings in their pockets and brought them up when the officiant called for them. they were very proud and we were proud of them!

Did you guys ask him what he wanted to do? we let my FH's daughter decide what she wanted to be and she decided that she was too old to be a flower girl (we agreed)

If that's what he wants to do, i'd consider having him just carry the rings down in his hand, or I like when people have them on a Bible if that's your thing

I think as long as he's good with it he can be ring bearer. My son is carrying the rings in a baseball I turned in to a box with a magnetic clasp. I'm sure you find some thing of interest to him or in your wedding theme to have carry with the rings. Oh a nice jewelry box would be awesome

Thanks everyone for your thoughtful answers. I think finding a nice jewelry box will work just fine. We don't have a theme for the wedding, and it will be a small ceremony (50 guests). We're not really having a wedding party, just best man and maid of honor. My daughter will be flower girl. Thanks again, everyone