Creating A Bow Bouquet For Your Wedding Rehearsal

Creating a bow bouquet for the wedding rehearsal is a long-standing tradition. The process involves crafting a bouquet from ribbons and bows taken from bridal shower gifts, which the bride can then use to practice walking down the aisle. This DIY project is a fun way to prepare for the big day and can be easily made with some simple supplies like paper plates, scissors, tape, and ribbons. The bouquet can be made during the bridal shower or at home, and the process involves creating a ribbon base, adding ribbons and bows, and braiding the ends to form a handle. With creativity and some extra touches, the final product will be a unique and adorable bow bouquet for the bride to hold during the rehearsal.

Use scissors to stab through two paper plates to make a steady base

To make a bow bouquet for a wedding rehearsal, you'll need scissors, a paper plate (or two, if you have a lot of ribbons), and ribbons and bows.

To make a steady base for your bouquet, start by placing two paper plates on top of each other for added strength. Then, use your scissors to stab through the plates at two points directly across from each other. Make sure the scissors are at a right angle to the paper plates to ensure a clean cut. Wiggle the scissors a little if necessary to widen the holes.

Next, insert a ribbon through one of the holes, gently pushing it through with your scissors if needed. Tie a knot on the backside of the plate. Repeat this step for the second hole, creating an "X" with the ribbons. This will serve as the base to which you'll tie all your ribbons and bows.

Thread ribbons through the holes and tie knots

To make a bow bouquet for a wedding rehearsal, you'll need to gather some supplies, including bows, ribbons, scissors, tape, and a paper plate. Start by cutting several holes in the plate, with the biggest one in the centre.

Now, it's time to thread the ribbons through these holes and secure them with knots. As the bride opens her gifts, collect any ribbons or bows. If you come across a ribbon without a bow, go ahead and make your own. Then, take the loose ends of the ribbons and carefully thread them through the holes in the plate. You can use scissors to gently push the ribbons through if needed.

Once the ribbons are through, it's time to tie some knots! Tie a knot with each ribbon on the backside of the plate to secure it in place. Repeat this process for all the ribbons you collect. This step will create a sturdy base for your bouquet, so take your time and ensure those knots are tight.

After you've tied individual knots with each ribbon, bring them all together and tie a large knot with all the ribbons combined. This unified knot will serve as the foundation of your bouquet and what the bride will hold onto.

Tape bows to the plate

To make a bow bouquet for a wedding rehearsal, you'll need bows, ribbons, and other fun extras from bridal shower gifts, tape, scissors, and a paper plate (or two if you have a lot of ribbons).

To attach the bows to the plate, you can use tape. Most bows will not stick to the plate with their original sticky back, so you will need to use extra tape. You can also use tape to attach any other extras, like cute feathers.

• Take lengths of tape and stick them onto themselves to make double-sided patterned masking tape ribbons.
• Cut the following lengths of the double-sided tape ribbons: 12", 10", 8", and 4".
• Fold the bows and staple them in place.
• Optional: Punch holes in the middle of the bow loops to add brads, which will make it easier to style.
• Use a hot glue gun to glue all the loops in place, arranging them from largest to smallest, stacking one on top of the other.
• Make a loop with the 4” piece to stick in the middle with hot glue.
• Use a glue dot or hot glue gun to add your masking tape gift bow to your bouquet.

You can also make a paper plate base to tie your bows onto. To do this, stab scissors or a knife through your plate at two points across from each other. Insert your ribbon and tie a knot on the backside. Repeat this step to make an "X" with a second piece of ribbon, creating a steady and large base to tie all your ribbons and bows onto.

Braid the ends of the ribbons to make a handle

Once you have all your bows, it's time to braid the ribbons to create a handle for your bouquet. This is a crucial step in ensuring your bow bouquet is easy to carry during the wedding rehearsal.

Start by identifying the ribbons that are hanging through the holes in the plate. You'll want to braid these together to form a sturdy handle. Divide the ribbons into three sections, just as you would with hair braiding. Take the left section and cross it over the middle section. Then, take the right section and cross it over what was previously the middle section. Repeat this process, always moving the outer sections towards the middle, until you reach the ends of the ribbons.

Secure the braid by tying a tight knot at the end. You can also add a small amount of tape to the knot to ensure it stays in place. Now you have a handle to carry your bow bouquet!

The braiding technique is simple, but it's important to take your time and ensure the handle is strong enough to support the weight of the bouquet. Ask your bridesmaids or crafty friends for help if needed—many hands make light work!

Add extra decorations like feathers or flowers

Adding extra decorations like feathers and flowers to your bow bouquet can give it a unique and whimsical touch. Here are some ideas and instructions to help you create a stunning and personalised wedding rehearsal bouquet:

Feathers:

Feathers can add a touch of elegance and charm to your bow bouquet. When choosing feathers, consider their versatility and affordability. Ostrich feathers, for instance, can create a full and luxurious look, but they can be pricey. Alternatively, you could opt for natural turkey feathers, pheasant feathers, or peacock feathers to add a pop of colour.

To attach the feathers to your bouquet, you can use tape or floral wire. If you're using tape, simply secure each feather to the bouquet's stem. If you're using floral wire, wrap it around the base of the feathers and the bouquet's stem to secure them together. You can then cover the wire with ribbon or leave it exposed for a more rustic look.

Flowers:

Fabric flowers, silk flowers, or fresh flowers can be a beautiful addition to your bow bouquet. When choosing flowers, consider your wedding colours or your favourite blooms. You can make your own fabric flowers or purchase ready-made ones.

To attach flowers to your bouquet, you can use floral tape, hot glue, or wire. For a seamless look, wrap the stems of the flowers with floral tape, leaving enough stem to attach to the bouquet. Then, use hot glue or wire to secure the flowers to the bouquet's stem. If you're using fresh flowers, be sure to prepare them properly to help them last until the rehearsal.

Combining Feathers and Flowers:

Combining feathers and flowers in your bouquet can create a stunning and unique arrangement. You can alternate between feathers and flowers, creating layers and adding volume to your bouquet. Play around with different combinations and placements until you achieve a look that you love.

Remember, your wedding rehearsal bouquet is a fun and creative project, so feel free to experiment and personalise it to your liking. Enjoy crafting this special bouquet!

Frequently asked questions