Bridesmaids' Flowers: Corsages Or Bouquets?

Bridesmaids traditionally carry bouquets, but some brides opt for corsages or other alternatives. Corsages are usually worn by family members or other VIPs at the wedding. They are often worn on the wrist or pinned to a lapel. Some brides choose to give their bridesmaids something else to carry, like a book or a basket of petals. Others choose to have their bridesmaids carry nothing at all.

Bridesmaids: Bouquets or corsages?

When it comes to your wedding, there are so many decisions to make, from the venue to the flowers, and of course, what your bridesmaids will carry down the aisle. While some brides opt for their bridesmaids to carry a bouquet, others choose a corsage, or even something a little different!

Bouquets

Bouquets are a traditional choice for bridesmaids and can add a beautiful pop of colour and elegance to your wedding party. When choosing bouquets, you can get creative and select flowers that complement your bridesmaids' dresses and the overall vibe of your wedding. You can also use this opportunity to bring in a broader range of colours, or keep it simple with white flowers and exposed green stems.

Corsages

Corsages are a delicate floral accessory, typically worn on the wrist or pinned to a lapel. They are a great option if you want to indicate those closest to you and can be a lovely alternative to bouquets, especially if you are having a non-traditional wedding or want to keep costs down. Corsages are usually worn by family members and close friends, but can also be worn by bridesmaids, especially if you want them to have free hands during the ceremony or reception.

Other Alternatives

If you want to depart from tradition, there are plenty of unique alternatives to bouquets and corsages. From carrying a meaningful book or a basket of petals to donning a floral crown or sunglasses, the options are endless! You could even skip flowers altogether and have your bridesmaids carry parasols, fans, or nothing at all.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose bouquets, corsages, or something else entirely, remember that it's your special day and you can make it as unique and personalised as you like. Discuss options with your florist or wedding planner, and don't be afraid to think outside the box!

Corsages for family members

Corsages are a great way to honour the important women in your life on your wedding day. They are typically worn by female family members and close friends, and can be either pinned to the wearer's attire or worn on the wrist with a ribbon.

Mothers and stepmothers of the bride and groom are often given corsages to wear, and it is considered a thoughtful gesture for the bride or groom to present their mothers with their corsages in person, creating a lovely photo opportunity. Similarly, grandmothers are also often gifted a floral corsage, and they can choose whether they would prefer a pinned or wrist corsage.

Other family members who can be honoured with a corsage include aunts, sisters, and cousins who may have played a special role in the wedding, such as giving a toast or reading a poem during the ceremony. It is also a nice touch to offer a corsage to female ushers or greeters, as it identifies them as "helpers" and distinguishes them as point people for guests with questions.

When ordering corsages, it is important to ask the wearer about their preference for a pinned or wrist corsage, as some people may find a wrist corsage uncomfortable, while others may not want to pin anything onto their attire, especially if they are wearing a strapless dress. Providing the florist with the colour and fabric of the wearer's attire in advance can also help ensure that the corsage complements their wedding ensemble.

Corsages are a meaningful way to show your gratitude and love to the special women in your life on your wedding day. They are a beautiful and sentimental gesture that will be cherished by those who receive them.

Flowers vs non-floral alternatives

Flowers are a traditional part of weddings, but they can be expensive and some brides are looking for alternatives. Corsages are one option, but if you're looking for non-floral alternatives, there are plenty of choices.

One option is to have your bridesmaids carry a book that played an important part in your friendship. You could also ask them to hold a bundle of herbs, especially if you're going for a rustic-inspired aesthetic. If you're getting married in a warm climate, your bridesmaids could carry delicate parasols, adding a Victorian-inspired look to your wedding. For a modern twist, you could try metallic paper flower balls or pomanders.

If you're having a beach wedding, your bridesmaids could carry woven palm leaf fans or origami crane mobiles. For a more elegant look, you could opt for lanterns or candles (LED for safety). If you're getting married in the winter, your bridesmaids could carry fur muffs for a fairytale princess look.

For a unique, vintage-inspired look, your bridesmaids could carry hatboxes, teapots, or even a sea glass wind chime. If you want to add a touch of glamour, try a brooch bouquet or a chic corsage. If you're looking for something fun and whimsical, your bridesmaids could carry balloons or puppies!

Cost-saving bouquet alternatives

There are many cost-saving alternatives to bridesmaids' bouquets. One option is to have the bridesmaids carry a single flower, such as a rose, instead of a full bouquet. This can be dressed up with ribbons, beads, or other accessories. Another idea is to have the bridesmaids wear corsages, which are usually less expensive and can be hands-free if worn on the wrist. If you're looking for something more unique, you could try having the bridesmaids carry lanterns, parasols, or baskets of petals. For a rustic wedding, consider using Mason jars decorated with ribbon or filled with baby's breath or lavender. If you're looking for something more personal, the bridesmaids could carry books or magazines that are meaningful to you.

Do bridesmaids need bouquets?

There are differing opinions on whether bridesmaids need bouquets. Some people believe that bouquets are a traditional part of the bridal party's attire and can add to the overall aesthetic of the wedding. Others suggest that bridesmaids can go without bouquets, especially if the wedding is informal or if the bridesmaids are carrying other items, such as a book or a fan. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and budget.

Alternatives to bouquets

If you decide that your bridesmaids do not need bouquets, there are several alternatives you can consider. One option is to have them carry single-stem flowers, such as roses or lilies, which can be more cost-effective than full bouquets. You could also opt for wrist corsages, which are less expensive and can be a stylish alternative. Other ideas include having your bridesmaids carry lanterns, fans, or even puppies!

Benefits of bouquets

Bouquets can add a special touch to your wedding and make your bridesmaids feel more comfortable. They can also be reused as centrepieces or incorporated into your floral decorations. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider creating bouquets with fake flowers or mixing fresh and dried blooms.

Factors to consider

When deciding whether your bridesmaids need bouquets, consider the overall style and theme of your wedding. If you're having a rustic wedding, for example, you might want your bridesmaids to carry dried flowers or herbs. If you're having a beach wedding, tropical leaves or sea shells could be a unique alternative to traditional bouquets. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and you should choose what feels right for your special day.

Frequently asked questions