Lyla Dejesus
Bridesmaids' bouquets are an important part of the wedding, and choosing the right flowers and arrangements can be a daunting task. The bouquets should complement the bridal bouquet, the bridesmaids' dresses, and the overall theme of the wedding. There are many factors to consider, such as the size, colour, and type of flowers used. While the bouquets can be simple and elegant, or bold and unique, it is essential that they are held correctly to achieve a natural and confident look.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Height of the bouquet | Hold the bouquet at your belly button or slightly below your navel. |
| Angle of the bouquet | Hold the bouquet at an angle so guests see the blooms, not stems. |
| Hand placement | Place your hands slightly below your navel, with elbows slightly bent. |
| Direction of the bouquet | Ensure the bouquet is facing the correct way, with trailing ribbons hanging down the front. |
| Type of bouquet | Cascading bouquets should be held with stems almost parallel to the floor. |
What You'll Learn
Bouquet size and shape
The bouquet size and shape are important factors to consider when styling your bridesmaids. The bouquets should complement the bridal bouquet, the bridesmaids' dresses, and the overall theme and vibe of the wedding. Here are some tips to help you choose the right size and shape:
Firstly, the bridesmaids' bouquets should be roughly half the size of the main bridal bouquet or slightly smaller. This ensures they don't outshine the bride's arrangement but still make a statement. On average, a bridesmaid's bouquet includes five to ten focal flowers, such as roses, peonies, hydrangeas, dahlias, or ranunculus, along with smaller complementary flowers and greenery.
The shape of the bouquet can vary, from traditional round bouquets to more unique shapes like asymmetric, cascading, or hoop bouquets. The shape you choose can depend on the dresses and the overall style of the wedding. For example, if the bridesmaids have different prints and styles of dresses, a monochromatic bouquet can help keep the overall look cohesive. If you want a more relaxed, boho, or natural look, consider using dried flowers, greenery, or a mix of wildflowers.
You can also play with the size and shape of the bouquets to create interest. For instance, have each bridesmaid carry a single stem or a few stems of a single variety of flower, or vary the shape and size of the bouquets while keeping the colour scheme cohesive.
The bouquet's size and shape should also be considered in relation to the bridesmaids themselves. The bouquet should be proportionate to the person holding it, not too big or too small, to ensure comfort and create a natural, confident stance.
Finally, don't be afraid to think outside the box and forgo bouquets altogether. Some unique alternatives include floral crowns, corsages, parasols, or even books!
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Bouquet positioning
The positioning of your bouquet is important as it can alter the way your wedding photos and videos look. Bridesmaids often hold their bouquets incorrectly, usually due to nerves and the fact that they are not used to holding such beautiful, full, and elegant arrangements. A common mistake is to hold the bouquet quite high, perhaps subconsciously to hide themselves from the spotlight. However, this can result in the bridesmaids looking overwhelmed by the bouquet and can cover the details at the top of their gowns.
A simple solution is to hold the bouquet lower, which will make you look more confident and natural. When holding your bouquet in front of you, place your hands slightly below your navel. This will allow for a natural-looking stance and will ensure that the bouquet is not being held too high. Hold your hands naturally in front of you so that they feel comfortable and relaxed, with your elbows slightly bent so you don't look stiff. Once your bouquet is in place, tilt it slightly forward so more flowers are showing.
When holding a cascading bouquet, hold the stems almost parallel to the floor to show off more of the flowers. Tilt the bouquet downward so that the stems are directed towards your body. If you are holding your bouquet to the side, hold the stems almost parallel to the floor and tilt your wrist upward to show off the flowers rather than the stems.
If you are having your parents walk you down the aisle, it is best if they hold onto your arms so that you can hold your bouquet at the proper level while still being able to walk with them gracefully.
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Bouquet contents
When it comes to the contents of a bridesmaid's bouquet, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the bouquet should complement the overall theme of the wedding and the style of the bridesmaid dresses. The bouquet can be used to bring in a broader range of colours and create an impact. For instance, blush pink dresses can be paired with soft whites, soft pinks, darker pinks, and greens. Alternatively, for a sleek and modern look, a simple combination of white flowers, exposed green stems, and black dresses can be chosen.
The size of the bouquet is also important. A bridesmaid's bouquet is usually roughly half the size of the main bridal bouquet or slightly smaller. It typically includes five to ten focal flowers, such as roses, peonies, hydrangeas, dahlias, or ranunculus, along with smaller, complementary flowers and greenery. The cost of a bridesmaid's bouquet can range from $50 to $100, depending on the wedding season, location, and flower types.
For a unique twist, bridesmaids can carry alternative bouquets or substitutes. Some options include floral crowns, baby's breath bouquets, single flowers wrapped in ribbons, feathers tucked into posies, herb bouquets, or arrangements of greenery. If you want to skip flowers altogether, consider using plants like anthurium or books, parasols, corsages, tropical leaves, or hanging bouquets.
Additionally, the bouquet can be used to symbolise the love and admiration between the bride and her bridesmaids. The bridal bouquet can also be made to differ slightly from the bridesmaids' bouquets to signify their supportive role in the wedding.
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Bouquet colour
When it comes to the colour of the bridesmaids' bouquets, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you may want to think about the colour palette of the wedding as a whole. Do you want the bouquets to blend in with the wedding colours or stand out as a focal point? If you want them to blend in, smaller bouquets that complement the wedding colours may be a good choice. You could also consider having the bridesmaids' bouquets in a similar style to the bridal bouquet but on a slightly smaller scale.
Another approach is to use the bridesmaids' bouquets to bring in a broader range of colours and create a vibrant impact. You could use varying shades of your colour palette to complement the bridesmaids' dresses. For instance, pairing blush pink dresses with soft whites, soft pinks, darker pinks, and greens can create a cohesive look. Alternatively, for a sleek and modern aesthetic, consider pairing white flowers with exposed green stems and black dresses.
If you're looking to add a pop of colour, bold shades can make a statement, especially against darker bridesmaids' dresses. You could also experiment with colourful bouquet wraps, such as sweet strands of hand-dyed silk ribbon, to add depth to the overall floral look.
For a more neutral approach, a monochromatic palette for the bouquets can be a good choice, especially if the bridesmaids' dresses are in different prints and styles. This helps to keep the overall look cohesive and elegant.
Ultimately, the colour of the bridesmaids' bouquets should complement the attire, the bridal bouquet, and the overall vibe of the wedding.
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Bouquet alternatives
When it comes to holding a bouquet, a simple solution for bridesmaids is to hold the bouquet lower, with their hands placed slightly below the navel. This ensures the flowers are not held too high and allows for a natural stance and relaxed arms.
Now, for bouquet alternatives, there are many options to choose from, and they can be a fun way to express the couple's or wedding's theme. Here are some ideas:
- Lanterns: A romantic alternative, especially for winter weddings or ceremonies held later in the day.
- Wearable flowers: Floral cuffs, necklaces, or corsages are a unique way to display flowers and keep the bridesmaids' hands free.
- Geometric designs: Add a modern twist to the traditional bouquet by incorporating geometric elements with the florals.
- Bags: Fill a bag with flowers for a quirky and cute alternative, perfect for a spring or summer garden wedding.
- Bound books: Beautifully bound books, perhaps with a small floral spray or wrapped in lace or velvet ribbon, can serve as both a thoughtful gift and a bouquet alternative.
- Parasols or umbrellas: Perfect for a summer wedding, parasols or umbrellas come in various colours, materials, and styles, adding a touch of elegance or whimsy to the occasion.
- Flower crowns: A fashionable trend that can adorn both the bride and bridesmaids, flower crowns offer a bohemian or refined look, depending on the flowers chosen.
- Fans: Bright-coloured paper fans for a fun retro feel, painted silk for timeless elegance, or feathers for a deco-inspired look.
- Brooch bouquets: A vintage alternative, brooch bouquets can be a sentimental and glamorous gift for bridesmaids to cherish long after the wedding.
- Balloons: Giant balloons are perfect for pictures and can be reused as decor at the reception, although they may not be the most practical option for the ceremony.
- Paper flower bouquets: Paper flowers have come a long way, and these can be DIYed and kept as mementos.
- Pinwheels: Super inexpensive and perfect for a festival or outdoor wedding, pinwheels are a cute and charming alternative.
- Natural and earthy alternatives: For a classic look with a twist, consider using cotton, herbs like eucalyptus, pine cones, or wheat for a rustic charm.
- Fruit bouquets: A fresh, autumnal idea, but be careful to avoid berries or too much fruit, as it can get heavy.
- Fabric bouquets: Similar to paper bouquets, fabric bouquets made from silk, felt, or pom-poms can be DIYed or bought and kept as lifelong mementos.
These alternatives offer a unique spin on the traditional bouquet, allowing the bridal party to express their style and personality while still looking elegant and picture-perfect.
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Frequently asked questions
Hold the bouquet at your belly button with your arms slightly bent and relaxed. This will ensure that the bouquet is not being held too high and blocking your dress, and will also make your arms look slimmed down.
Place your hands slightly below your navel, with your elbows slightly bent so you don't look stiff. This will allow for a natural-looking stance and will be more comfortable to hold for extended periods of time.
Practice holding the flowers in a mirror so you're comfortable with both the blooms pointing the right way and your arms slightly bent with the bouquet at your belly button.
