Bouquets For Bridesmaids: Who Should Hold Them?

Bridesmaids traditionally carry bouquets of flowers during the wedding ceremony, but this is not mandatory. Flowers can be expensive, so brides on a budget may opt for alternatives to bouquets, such as clutch purses, lanterns, or even books. Bridesmaids can also wear flower crowns or corsages instead of carrying bouquets. Ultimately, the choice is up to the bride and what she envisions for her wedding.

Single flowers

If you're looking for a unique twist, you could opt for a different type of flower or a non-floral alternative. For a rustic or natural look, consider a sprig of baby's breath, a single sunflower, or a bundle of herbs. For a bold statement, a bright peony or a tropical leaf like a palm or a monstera leaf will stand out. If you want to incorporate your cultural heritage, a traditional fan can be a beautiful choice.

For a more subtle approach, a wrist corsage with a single flower and greenery is a lovely option. This can be a cost-effective way to include florals without the expense of a full bouquet.

Ultimately, the decision to include flowers or not is a personal one and can depend on your wedding theme, budget, and what you feel is right for your special day.

Corsages

If you're looking for something a little different, you could consider a floral crown or cuff instead of a traditional corsage. These can add a unique and whimsical touch to your bridesmaids' outfits. You could also mix and match different styles of corsages to create a personalised look for each bridesmaid.

Flowers in hair

Flowers in the hair is a whimsical and romantic look for bridesmaids. It can be a more cost-effective alternative to bouquets, and there are many ways to incorporate blooms into a variety of hairstyles.

For a classic look, a single flower tucked into an updo or a high bun is a simple yet elegant choice. For bridesmaids wearing their hair down, a few strands can be pinned back with a bright, lush flower for a romantic touch. For a bolder statement, a flower crown is a perfect choice, especially for bohemian-themed weddings. These can be monochromatic or feature a mix of colours and flowers. For a more subtle approach, small blooms or buds can be tucked into braids or updos, adding a hint of whimsy and texture.

When selecting flowers for hair, smaller blooms with a lot of texture work well, such as roses, orchids, or gardenias. Succulents, sage, and greenery can also be used for a more natural, bohemian vibe. For a unique touch, consider incorporating flowers that match the colour or theme of the wedding. For example, for a rustic wedding, dried flowers or herbs like rosemary or chamomile can be used.

Flowers in the hair can be fresh or faux, depending on the desired look and practicality. Fresh flowers add a natural touch, while faux flowers ensure longevity and can be more cost-effective.

Hoop bouquets

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider using a mix of fresh and dried flowers or greenery. You can even make your own hoop bouquets by assembling them yourself during a bridal brunch the day before the wedding. This can be a fun and creative project for you and your bridesmaids to work on together.

Flowers vs no flowers

Flowers for bridesmaids can add a visually appealing accessory to the wedding ceremony. They can complement the bridal bouquet, the bridesmaids' dresses, and the overall vibe of the day. However, flowers can also add a significant expense, especially for larger bridal parties. So, what are the pros and cons of flowers vs no flowers for bridesmaids?

Flowers

If you decide to have flowers for your bridesmaids, there are many ways to make them work for your wedding. Firstly, you can choose to have simple bouquets that pair nicely with the colour of the bridesmaids' dresses. This can be a beautiful and affordable addition to the day. You could also opt for a single flower for each bridesmaid, such as a rose, which can still give the look of them carrying flowers without the expense of a full bouquet.

If you want to keep costs down, you can request cheaper flowers or smaller bouquets. You could also have your florist make smaller versions of your bouquet for your bridesmaids. If you want to differentiate the bridal bouquet from the bridesmaids' flowers, you could ask your florist to use smaller flowers that match the dress colour.

No Flowers

If you decide not to have flowers for your bridesmaids, there are many alternative options. One idea is to have your bridesmaids carry something other than flowers, such as a book, a candle, or a fan. You could also opt for corsages, hairpieces, or wrist cuffs instead of bouquets. If you're having a rustic wedding, your bridesmaids could carry something like a Mason jar or a lantern, which can also be used as decor at the reception.

Another option is to have your bridesmaids carry nothing at all. This can save money and mean one less thing for them to worry about on the day. If your bridesmaids are walking in with the groomsmen, they may not need to carry anything.

Ultimately, the decision to have flowers or no flowers for your bridesmaids is a personal one and will depend on your budget, the size of your bridal party, and your personal preference. Flowers can add a beautiful touch to the ceremony, but there are also many creative alternatives if you decide to forgo them.

Frequently asked questions