Creating Wedding Boutonnieres And Corsages: A Step-By-Step Guide

Flowers are a beautiful and meaningful addition to any wedding, and boutonnieres and corsages are a great way to honour and recognise important people in your life. These small floral arrangements are traditionally worn by VIPs and family members, such as parents and grandparents, as well as those with special roles like the officiant, readers, and ushers. Corsages can be pinned to the attire or worn on the wrist, while boutonnieres are usually affixed to the lapel. Making these floral arrangements yourself can be a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your wedding, and ensure that your loved ones feel extra special on your big day.

Choosing the right flowers and greenery

Corsages are typically worn by female-identifying guests. This includes the mothers of the bride and groom, grandmothers, female ushers, greeters, and the officiant if she is not wearing religious garb. Corsages can be pinned to the bodice of a dress or tied to the wrist with a ribbon. If the wearer's dress is strapless or heavily beaded, a wrist corsage is preferable. It is also a good idea to ask the wearer their preference.

Boutonnieres are usually worn by male-identifying guests, although anyone wearing a suit may wear one. This includes the fathers of the bride and groom, grandfathers, the groom, groomsmen, ring bearers, ushers, and the officiant if he is not wearing religious clothing. Boutonnieres can be affixed to the wearer's clothing in a variety of ways, including pins or magnets, and are typically worn on the left lapel of a suit jacket or attached to the shirt directly above the heart.

When choosing flowers for your corsages and boutonnieres, it is important to consider the wearer's attire and the overall wedding theme. The florist can provide recommendations based on your vision and colour scheme. It is also customary to give corsages and boutonnieres that complement the bridal bouquet in terms of shape, colour, and floral choices.

Popular flower choices for boutonnieres include white roses and calla lilies, while orchids, ranunculuses, and dahlias are also used. Corsages often feature a single large, elegant flower, such as a gardenia or flat garden rose. Ultimately, the choice of flowers and greenery is a personal decision and should reflect the style and theme of the wedding.

Corsage styles: wrist vs. pinned

When it comes to corsages, there are two main styles to choose from: wrist corsages and pinned corsages. Both styles have their own advantages and considerations, which should be taken into account when deciding which style to go for.

Wrist corsages are typically tied to the wrist with a ribbon, like a bracelet. They are a popular choice for weddings as they are seen as more modern and less obtrusive than pinned corsages. They are also a good option for those who don't want to pin anything onto their attire, especially if the fabric is delicate or strapless. Wrist corsages can be a great way to showcase the flowers and add a touch of elegance to the overall look. However, some people may find them uncomfortable or annoying, especially if they are bulky or heavy.

Pinned corsages, on the other hand, are traditionally pinned to the bodice of a dress or the lapel of a jacket. They are more secure and less likely to get in the way during the event. Pinned corsages are often preferred by those who want to avoid anything on their wrist, which could be bothersome when posing for photos or performing certain activities. However, there is a risk of damaging delicate fabrics with a pin. As a solution, some florists offer magnet corsages, which provide a secure alternative without damaging the fabric.

Ultimately, the choice between wrist and pinned corsages comes down to personal preference and the specific circumstances of the wearer. It is important to consider the wearer's attire, comfort, and preference when making a decision. Asking the VIP guests in advance about their preferred style can ensure that they feel comfortable and honoured on the special day.

To add a touch of creativity, some people opt for hand-held corsages, which are like mini bouquets, or even corsages made with non-floral items such as brooches.

Boutonniere styles: pin vs. magnet

When it comes to boutonniere styles, there are two main attachment methods to consider: pins and magnets. Both options have their own advantages and can be suitable for different situations. Here is a detailed comparison between the two:

Boutonniere Pins

Boutonniere pins are the traditional choice for attaching flower arrangements to lapels or suits. They are usually made of metal and feature a sharp end that pierces through the fabric, securing the boutonniere in place. While they can be a bit tricky to attach, especially on delicate fabrics, they often provide a more secure hold compared to magnets. Pins are ideal for active occasions or events where there might be a lot of movement, as they reduce the risk of the boutonniere falling off. They are also a good option for thicker fabrics that might be too heavy for magnets to hold effectively.

Boutonniere Magnets

Boutonniere magnets, on the other hand, offer a more modern approach to attaching flower arrangements. These small, strong magnets come in pairs, with one piece attached to the boutonniere and the other placed discreetly inside the lapel or suit jacket. This method eliminates the need for piercing the fabric, making it a preferred choice for delicate or thin fabrics that could be damaged by pins. Magnets are also easier to attach and remove, causing less stress on the fabric. They are a good option for quick, hassle-free attachment and are suitable for most standard fabrics.

Considerations

When deciding between pins and magnets, it is important to consider the type of fabric and the weight of the boutonniere. Pins might be more suitable for thicker or heavier fabrics, while magnets work well with lighter-weight fabrics and boutonnieres. Additionally, the level of activity during the event should be considered. For more active occasions, pins might provide a more secure hold. However, for formal events where preserving the fabric is a priority, magnets could be the better choice.

In conclusion, both boutonniere pins and magnets have their advantages. Pins offer a traditional, secure option, while magnets provide a modern, fabric-friendly alternative. The decision between the two ultimately depends on the specific requirements and constraints of the event, as well as personal preferences.

Who to give them to

Corsages and boutonnieres are given to important people in your life and noteworthy wedding guests. They are traditionally only presented to and worn by VIPs. It's important to make a list of recipients before your wedding day so your florist knows how many to make.

Corsages are typically worn by female-identifying guests, but it's best to ask your loved ones if they prefer to wear a corsage or a boutonniere, as well as which style they'd feel most comfortable wearing.

Boutonnieres are usually worn by those who identify as male, but anyone wearing a suit may wear one.

Corsages

• Mothers of the bride and groom, as well as stepmothers
• Grandmothers
• Bridesmaids or other female attendants such as ushers, ceremony readers, house party members, and other women with a role in the wedding ceremony or reception
• Female officiants (unless wearing religious clothing)
• Other female family members and close friends

Boutonnieres

• Fathers of the bride and groom
• Grandfathers
• Groomsmen or other male wedding party members
• Male officiants (unless wearing religious garb)
• Ushers
• Ring bearers
• Other male family members and close friends

When to give them out

When it comes to giving out boutonnieres and corsages for weddings, timing is important. These floral arrangements are traditionally given to VIPs and important guests, and are usually presented before the wedding ceremony so they can be worn with pride during the processional.

For a heartfelt touch, the bride or groom can give their mother or stepmother their corsage in person, making for a special moment that is also a great photo opportunity. Similarly, the father of the bride or groom can help their child pin on their boutonniere, creating another emotional moment to capture in photographs.

It's a good idea to give boutonnieres and corsages to the wedding party before the ceremony, so they can be worn as the bridal party enters. This is a practical way to identify members of the wedding party, such as ushers, and other important guests, like grandparents.

If you have a wedding planner, venue coordinator, or floral designer, they can assist with pinning on boutonnieres and corsages, which can be tricky to do. It's also a good idea to practice pinning or tying on corsages in advance, so you can help your wedding party and family members without any stress.

Frequently asked questions