Bouquets For Bridesmaids: Who Carries Them And Why?

Bridesmaids traditionally carry bouquets of flowers during the wedding ceremony, but this is not mandatory. While flowers can add beauty to the occasion, they can also be expensive. Bridesmaids can carry a range of alternative items, including clutch purses, lanterns, pashminas, books, or fans. Some brides opt for their bridesmaids to carry single stem flowers or no items at all. Ultimately, the choice is a personal one and there are many options to consider when deciding what bridesmaids should carry.

Do bridesmaids need to carry bouquets?

Bridesmaids do not need to carry bouquets. Wedding etiquette does not require bridesmaids to carry bouquets, and there are several alternatives to consider.

If you're on a budget, flowers can be one of the most expensive parts of your wedding, so purchasing bouquets for all of your bridesmaids may be too costly. A bouquet alternative can add a unique twist to your wedding and help cut costs.

For example, bridesmaids could carry a book that holds a special meaning, a bundle of herbs for a rustic-inspired aesthetic, or a fan for a summer wedding. You could also forgo the bouquet altogether and let your bridesmaids walk down the aisle empty-handed.

If you decide to include bouquets, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the bouquets should complement the bridal bouquet, the bridesmaids' dresses, and the overall vibe of the day. Secondly, while the bouquets don't have to match, they should be cohesive and similar to create a cohesive look for the bridal party. Finally, consider the scent of the flowers, as overly scented flowers can cause headaches or allergies for your bridesmaids.

Alternatives to bouquets

There are many alternatives to bouquets for bridesmaids to carry. Here are some ideas:

Books

If literature is important to you, consider carrying a book that played an important part in your friendship or a favourite book. You could give each bridesmaid the same novel or have them select their own to make it more personal.

Fans

Fans can be a stylish and useful alternative, especially for summer weddings. They will add a touch of glamour and keep your bridesmaids cool. If you're paying homage to your Chinese heritage, you could opt for traditional Chinese fans.

Baskets

Baskets are not just for flower girls. You could have your bridesmaids carry petals in a basket instead of by the stem. This adds a rustic and storybook-inspired touch.

Ribbons

Ribbons can be a cute and festive accessory. Use high-quality ribbons such as hand-dyed silk or rich velvet to add a whimsical touch.

Wreaths

Carrying a wreath can be a gorgeous statement piece. You could also make them yourself using foliage and flowers.

Flowers

If you still want to incorporate flowers, you could opt for flower crowns, single-stem flowers, or a corsage. You could also use dried flowers, which will last longer, or paper flowers, which will last forever.

Greenery

If you love the look of a bouquet but don't want flowers, you could use an arrangement of greenery such as eucalyptus, olive branches, or ferns.

Tropical leaves

For a tropical-themed wedding, consider using large palm or monstera leaves instead of a bouquet.

Succulents

If you're having a rustic or boho wedding, succulents can be a great addition to your bridesmaids' bouquets.

Silk flowers

Silk flowers can be a good option if you want to deviate slightly from tradition. They look like real flowers but can help you save on floral expenses.

Lanterns

For a romantic and inexpensive option, consider having your bridesmaids carry lanterns down the aisle.

Parasols

Parasols can add a Victorian-inspired touch to your wedding, especially if you're having an outdoor ceremony. They will also help to block the sun.

Origami

For a unique and fun alternative, consider sphere-shaped pomanders made of origami paper flowers.

Types of flowers for bouquets

Flowers are a staple of weddings, and there are many types of flowers that can be used in bouquets. Here are some of the most popular options:

Roses

Roses are a classic choice for bouquets and come in a variety of colours. Red roses are associated with romance, but you can also find yellow roses for friendship, pink roses for gratitude, and lavender roses for bold statements. Roses also pair well with other flowers, making them a versatile option.

Tulips

Tulips represent abundance, love, royalty, charity, and indulgence. They come in a variety of colours and can be mixed and matched to suit any occasion. Tulips are a perfect choice for adding a touch of elegance to your bridesmaids' bouquets.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are versatile and come in a wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes. They can stand out on their own or be combined with other flowers. Hydrangeas are an excellent choice for saying "I'm sorry", "Thank you", or "Congratulations".

Sunflowers

Sunflowers symbolise loyalty, adoration, and longevity. They are often considered "happy" flowers and can bring a ray of sunshine to any bouquet. Sunflowers are perfect for adding a touch of warmth and cheerfulness to your wedding.

Lilies

Lilies come in a rainbow of colours and can have various meanings. White lilies, for example, are often used in weddings to symbolise purity. Lilies of any colour can also represent love, femininity, or transience, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions.

Orchids

Orchids suggest luxury, love, and beauty. They are a great choice for a tropical-themed wedding and can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your bouquets.

Peonies

Peonies come in several colours and symbolise beauty, honour, wealth, and romance. They make a stunning addition to any bouquet and are certain to impress.

Carnations

Carnations are affordable and come in various colours, including antique creamy peach, a mix of champagne, peach, and ivory hues. They can be "reflexed", which means gently folding back the petals to make them look fuller and feathery. Carnations are a versatile option that can be used in a variety of arrangements.

Ranunculus

Ranunculus, also known as buttercups, are showy spring flowers with layers of petals. They come in cheerful colours and can put a smile on anyone's face. Ranunculus can be used on their own or mixed with other flowers to add a touch of spice to your bouquets.

Baby's Breath

Baby's breath, or Gysophila, is no longer just a filler flower. It has become a popular choice for bridal bouquets and wedding decorations, adding a delicate and romantic touch to your special day.

When choosing flowers for your bridesmaids' bouquets, consider the overall theme and colour scheme of your wedding, as well as the dresses your bridesmaids will be wearing. You can opt for flowers that complement the dresses or add a pop of colour. Discuss your ideas with a florist, who can help you create beautiful bouquets that align with your vision.

Who pays for the bouquets?

Traditionally, the bride's family pays for almost everything involved in the wedding, including the flowers at the wedding ceremony and reception, and the wedding party bouquets. However, today, things have changed. Many couples cover the costs of their weddings themselves, including wedding flowers.

If the bride's parents offer to pay for the flowers, it is important to communicate with them about the budget and ensure they are comfortable with the costs. If the couple is paying for the flowers themselves, they should allocate enough money for them in their budget.

The bridesmaid bouquets are usually paid for by the bride and her family, as they are considered part of the wedding decor. These bouquets typically cost between $65 to $125, depending on the size, design, and number of bouquets ordered.

If you are the bride and are concerned about the cost of the bouquets, there are a few ways to keep expenses down. You could ask your florist to make the bridesmaids' bouquets simpler, smaller, and more greenery-heavy, which will reduce the price without sacrificing texture or interest. Another way to save money is to reduce the number of bridesmaids in your wedding party, as the cost of the bouquets will increase with each additional person.

It is also worth noting that there is no requirement for bridesmaids to carry bouquets. There are many alternative options to consider, such as carrying a book, a basket, a fan, or a parasol. These alternatives can add a unique twist to your wedding and may be more cost-effective.

Cost of bouquets

The cost of bridesmaid bouquets is part of the overall floral budget for a wedding. While the bridal bouquet is often one of the more expensive pieces of wedding decoration, the bridesmaid bouquets are also a significant cost.

The average cost of a bridesmaid bouquet is around $80, but this can range from $65 to $125, depending on the types of flowers used and the number of flowers in each bouquet. The more extravagant the flowers, the more expensive the bouquet. For example, peonies, orchids, and tulips are more costly choices, whereas daisies, roses, Baby's Breath, and Queen Anne's lace are more affordable options.

The number of bridesmaids in the wedding party will also affect the overall cost of bridesmaid bouquets. A large wedding party will require more bouquets, which will increase the total expenditure.

To save money on bridesmaid bouquets, couples can opt for less expensive flowers, choose a local florist, or repurpose the bouquets as part of the reception decor. For example, the bouquets can be placed in vases at the bridal party table or displayed around the cake or dessert table.

Frequently asked questions