Flowers are a classic choice for bridesmaids to carry down the aisle, but they're not the only option. From bags of flowers to flower crowns, there are plenty of creative alternatives to traditional bouquets. For a whimsical touch, consider arm garlands or ribbon wands. If you're looking for something elegant, vintage fans, beaded feathers, or brooch bouquets are excellent choices. For a natural, rustic vibe, your bridesmaids can carry wreaths, mason jars, or bundles of wheat or herbs. Want to add a pop of colour? Try giant balloons, colourful pinwheels, or paper flower bouquets. Looking for something unique and modern? Opt for hatboxes, dream catchers, or embroidery hoops. The possibilities are endless!
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Creative | Bags, beautifully bound books, flower necklaces, fans, brooch bouquets, parasols, umbrellas, flower crowns, lanterns, corsages, flower halos, flower circlets, cow bells, antique brass, seashell bouquets, pine-cone bouquets, button bouquets, olive branch bouquets, fruit bouquets, wine cork bouquets, balloons, butterfly bouquets, candy bouquets, paper or fabric flower bouquets, ribbon bouquets, pearl or beaded bouquets, cake pops, lollipops, feather bouquets, muffs, purses, candles, lanterns, arm garlands, ribbon wands, pinwheels, giant balloons, heart balloons, yarn ball bouquets, beaded feathers, vintage fans, bridal clutches, wreaths, mason jars, fabric flowers, sheet music flowers, teapots, hatboxes, modern dream catchers, embroidery hoops, palm leaf fans, seashell bouquets, sea glass wind chimes, grape bunches, kissing balls, fur muffs, and more. |
Books
If you're a bookworm at heart, why not incorporate your favourite novels into your wedding? Carrying books down the aisle is a unique and cost-effective alternative to flowers, and it adds a deeply personal and romantic touch to your special day.
To create a cohesive look, you could opt for a single novel for each bridesmaid, or let them choose their favourite book to make it more personal. You can also wrap the books in luxurious ribbons and add small floral accents to elevate the look.
If you're looking for a fun DIY project, you and your bridesmaids could even create book-themed bouquets. Simply fold the pages of the books into intricate origami shapes, such as cranes or butterflies, which symbolise peace, love, and new beginnings. This adds a symbolic layer of meaning to your wedding ceremony.
For a vintage-inspired wedding, consider using beautifully bound classic love stories wrapped in lace. Each bridesmaid can highlight their favourite passages for the happy couple to enjoy, creating a lasting memory of the celebration.
Whether you choose to carry books, origami bouquets, or simply incorporate literary elements into your floral arrangements, embracing books as a theme for your bridesmaids is a unique and memorable way to showcase your love of literature on your wedding day.
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Fans
If you're having a beach wedding, palm leaf fans are a great choice. Decorate them with ribbons or small seashells for a personalised touch.
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Bags
- Flowers: Opt for a bag of flowers for a quirky and cute look. This option is perfect for a spring or summer garden wedding.
- Flowers and gifts: Fill a bag with flowers and other small gifts for your bridesmaids to enjoy during and after the wedding.
- Chic items: Splurge on something super chic to treat your bridesmaids. For example, you can choose stylish clutches or embroidered box clutches.
When selecting bags as an alternative to bouquets, consider the theme and style of your wedding. For instance, if you're having a vintage-inspired wedding, lightweight and stylish hatboxes can be a chic choice. If you're going for a bohemian theme, modern dream catcher bags can add a stylish and symbolic touch.
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Corsages
If you would like to forgo flowers altogether, you could opt for a corsage made of greenery, such as eucalyptus, olive branches, or ferns, for a natural, textured look.
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Umbrellas
When selecting umbrellas for your bridesmaids, consider the following:
Colour and Design
Cultural Significance
In some cultures, umbrellas hold cultural and symbolic value. For example, in Indian and Hindu ceremonies, colourful umbrellas signify protection and royalty. If your wedding has a cultural focus, incorporating specific types of umbrellas can be a meaningful addition.
Customisation
Customisable umbrellas allow you to add a personal touch to your wedding. You can include your wedding date, a special message, or even your wedding hashtag. These customised umbrellas can also serve as a memorable gift for your bridesmaids and a unique memento of the day.
Type of Umbrella
When choosing umbrellas, you can opt for traditional umbrellas with a handle, or go for parasols or hand fans, which offer a more vintage or elegant aesthetic. For beach weddings, consider using parasols made from lace or paper, or natural materials like bamboo. These options provide shade and a stylish accessory for your bridesmaids.
Combining with Flowers
If you still want to incorporate flowers into your bridesmaids' look, you can combine umbrellas with fresh flower necklaces or corsages. This way, your bridesmaids can enjoy the beauty of flowers while keeping their hands free.
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Frequently asked questions
Some unique alternatives to flowers for bridesmaids to hold include beautifully bound books, fresh flower necklaces, vintage fans, brooch bouquets, and lanterns.
Yes, parasols or umbrellas are practical alternatives, especially for outdoor weddings, as they provide shade and protection from the sun or rain.
Cost-effective alternatives include wheat sheaves, wildflowers, single flowers, or books. These options can often be sourced for free or at a low cost while still adding a unique and personal touch.
DIY ideas include creating button bouquets, paper or fabric flower bouquets, ribbon bouquets, or brooch bouquets. These can be crafted to match the wedding theme and colors.
Offbeat ideas include horseshoes, mason jars, candles, lanterns, purses, or even something edible like cake pops or candy bouquets. These choices can add a quirky and playful element to the wedding.