Who Pays For The Bridesmaids' Flowers?

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it's also a major financial commitment. While there are no hard and fast rules about who pays for what, there are some traditions and expectations. Bridesmaids are usually expected to pay for their outfits, travel and accommodation, and to chip in for the bachelorette party and bridal shower. However, the bride's family traditionally pays for the bridesmaids' bouquets and other floral accents, as these are considered part of the wedding decor. While it's not mandatory, it's also considered good form for the bride to cover the cost of the bridesmaids' hair and makeup if she requires them to have it done professionally.

Who pays for the flowers?

Traditionally, the bride's family pays for the flowers at the wedding ceremony and reception, including the bridal bouquet, bridesmaids' bouquets, and flower girl bouquet (if applicable). However, nowadays, there are no hard and fast rules, and each wedding is unique in what the couple expects their bridal party to pay for. Ultimately, it comes down to what the couple and their loved ones are comfortable with financially. It is essential to have honest conversations about budget expectations with everyone involved.

Traditional Wedding Flower Payment Etiquette:

If following traditional etiquette, the breakdown of flower payments is as follows:

• The groom or groom's family pays for the bridal bouquet.
• The bride or bride's family pays for the bridesmaids' bouquets, ceremony backdrop and decor, and floral hair accessories.
• The groom's family pays for the groom's boutonniere, groomsmen boutonnieres, and corsages for mothers and grandmothers on both sides of the family.

Other Factors to Consider:

When deciding who pays for the flowers, it is also crucial to consider the wedding location, the types of flowers chosen, and the number of flower arrangements needed. Seasonal flowers are often a more affordable option, and using local florists or wholesale florists can help cut costs.

Other Wedding Expenses for Bridesmaids:

It is worth noting that, in addition to potentially paying for their bouquets, bridesmaids typically cover other expenses, such as their attire, travel, and accommodations. They may also be expected to contribute to or cover the costs of the bachelorette party and bridal shower.

Communicating About Wedding Costs:

To avoid misunderstandings and resentment, open and transparent communication about financial expectations is crucial. Couples should be mindful of the financial burden on their bridal party and give a clear idea of expected costs. Similarly, bridal party members should be honest about their financial capabilities and express any concerns early on.

Are there alternatives to fresh flowers?

Fresh flowers are a classic choice for bridesmaids, but they are not the only option. Here are some alternatives that can add a unique twist to your wedding:

• Single Stem: Bridesmaids can carry a single flower instead of a bouquet. This could be one particular flower from the bridal bouquet or a different species of bloom. Dress up the solo blooms with ribbons, beads, or small balloons.
• Corsages: Corsages are a graceful and stylish alternative that is also hands-free. They can be pre-arranged on the bridesmaid's wrist as they walk down the aisle. Choose flowers that sit more flat and won't wilt easily. Match the corsages with the groomsmen's boutonnieres or use them for other wedding party members like flower girls.
• Hair Pieces: Bridesmaids can wear flowers in their hair instead of carrying bouquets. Options include an oversized flower as a statement piece, floral headbands for a boho look, or dramatic headdresses.
• Hoop Bouquets: A hoop bouquet, or bridal hoop, is a wreath-like arrangement usually made from wood or metal, decorated with foliage, vines, feathers, ribbons, or shells.
• Feathers: Feathers can be used as a bouquet alternative or as embellishments for a few choice flowers. Quill feathers add a rustic touch, while ostrich or peacock feathers create a graceful and glamorous appearance.
• Mason Jars: Mason jars can be painted, tied with ribbon, or filled with baby's breath or lavender to create a unique alternative to bouquets.
• Lanterns: In many cultures, lanterns symbolize good luck, health, and prosperity. They are a romantic alternative, especially for winter or evening weddings.
• Balloons: Helium or nitrogen-filled balloons are often associated with celebrations. They can be used as a fun and creative alternative to bouquets, with options such as letter-shaped balloons or flower-shaped balloons.
• Fans: Wedding fans have been used throughout history and can add an elegant touch to the ceremony. Try woven fans for a beach wedding or lace fans for a glamorous affair.
• Paper Flowers: Paper bouquets are a modern and budget-friendly alternative. Different types of paper, such as cardstock or tissue paper, can be used to create unique and personalized arrangements.
• Bags: For a quirky and cute alternative, bridesmaids can carry bags filled with flowers or other decorative items.
• Beautifully Bound Books: Books can be a meaningful and budget-friendly alternative to bouquets. Wrap them in delicate lace or velvet ribbons to add a romantic touch.
• Fresh Flower Necklaces: Flower necklaces add a boho whimsy touch and leave the bridesmaids' hands free.
• Parasols or Umbrellas: Parasols or umbrellas can be a stylish alternative, especially for outdoor weddings. They can also double as props for wedding portraits.
• Flower Crowns: Flower crowns are a trendy alternative, adding a bohemian or refined touch to the bridesmaids' look.
• Greenery: Eucalyptus leaves, monstera leaves, or evergreen branches are elegant alternatives to flowers and can be used to create natural and textured bouquets.

What are the costs of fresh flowers?

The cost of fresh flowers for a wedding can vary depending on several factors, including the types of flowers chosen, the size and number of arrangements, the season, and the location. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with fresh flowers for a wedding:

Bridal Bouquet:

The bridal bouquet is usually the most expensive bouquet, with prices ranging from $250 to $500. The cost can vary depending on the types of flowers, embellishments, and size of the bouquet.

Bridesmaids' Bouquets:

These bouquets typically range from $80 to $180 each but can be more or less depending on the complexity and size. The bridesmaids themselves do not usually pay for their bouquets; this cost is covered by the bride or the bride's family as part of the overall floral budget.

Boutonnieres and Corsages:

Boutonnieres and corsages are smaller floral accessories typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, and VIP guests such as parents. These can range in price from $20 to $80 each, with an average of around $50.

Centerpieces:

Centerpieces for reception tables can vary widely in price, depending on the size and complexity of the arrangement. Simple centerpieces can start at around $175, while more elaborate designs can cost upwards of $350 or more.

Ceremony Decor:

Flowers for the ceremony, including aisle flowers, altar arrangements, and other decorations, can also vary in price. A basic package may start at $240, while more extensive decorations can cost $300 or more.

Reception Flowers:

Additional flowers for the reception, such as blooms on the dinner table, entrance, or cake, can range from $100 to $200 or more.

Flower Girl Petals:

Petals for a flower girl to sprinkle down the aisle typically cost around $25.

Ceremony Structures:

Large floral structures such as arches or flower walls can be a significant expense, ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 or more.

Head Table Florals and Sweetheart Table Décor:

Flowers for the head table and sweetheart table can also vary in price, with head table florals averaging around $1,500 and sweetheart table décor ranging from $200 to $500.

It's important to note that these are average costs and that the total cost of wedding flowers can vary greatly depending on the specific choices made by the couple and the availability of certain flowers during their wedding season.

Who pays for the bridal bouquet?

Traditionally, the groom or the groom's family pays for the bridal bouquet. However, in modern times, there is no fixed rule, and different people chip in for the wedding, including the couple themselves.

Traditional Wedding Flower Payment Etiquette:

According to traditional wedding etiquette, the bride's family pays for most or all of the wedding flowers. The groom or the groom's family pays for the bridal bouquet, boutonnieres, and corsages for members of the wedding party, including family members of the couple.

Modern Wedding Flower Payment:

Today, many couples cover the costs of their wedding themselves, including wedding flowers. If the bride's parents offer to foot the bill, it is essential to ensure that the costs are within their budget.

Communicating Wedding Flower Costs:

It is crucial to communicate wedding flower costs with those expected to pay. Being able to talk about money is essential during the wedding planning process, especially if someone else is footing the bill. It is advisable to budget for wedding flowers and show the estimated costs to those offering to pay.

Saving on Wedding Flower Costs:

Using seasonal flowers is a great way to cut down on costs. Opting for more affordable stems, such as silk flowers or flowers from wholesale florists or local markets, can also help reduce expenses.

The Role of the Bridal Party in Paying for Wedding Flowers:

While there are no hard and fast rules, it is generally not expected that the bridal party, including bridesmaids, pay for the bridal bouquet or any other wedding flowers. The bridal bouquet is part of the bride's design statement and, therefore, falls under her umbrella of responsibilities.

Other Wedding Costs for the Bridal Party:

Although the bridal party is not typically expected to pay for the bridal bouquet, there are other wedding-related costs that bridesmaids usually cover. These include their outfits, travel, and accommodation for the wedding, bachelorette parties, and bridal showers.

What are the costs of bridesmaids' bouquets?

The cost of bridesmaids' bouquets is typically covered by the bride or the couple getting married, as they are considered part of the wedding decor. While the bride's family traditionally pays for most wedding flowers, modern couples and the groom's family often contribute as well.

The average cost of a bridesmaid's bouquet is around $75 to $80, but this can vary depending on the types and quantities of flowers used, as well as the size and complexity of the arrangement. To save money, brides can opt for simpler, smaller bouquets for their bridesmaids that feature more greenery and fewer flowers.

It is important to note that the role of a bridesmaid comes with several other expenses, such as the dress, hair and makeup, accommodation, travel, and gifts for pre-wedding events and the wedding itself. As such, it is encouraged for brides to be transparent about financial expectations with their bridesmaids and for bridesmaids to be honest about what they can realistically afford.

Frequently asked questions