Creative Alternatives To Bridesmaid Bouquets: Unique Ideas For Your Wedding

There are many alternatives to the traditional bridesmaid bouquet. From carrying lanterns, flowers, or even musical instruments, to wearing flowers as a corsage or in their hair, there are endless options for bridesmaids to personalize their look and meet their budget.

Single stems

Single-stem bouquets are a great alternative to the traditional multi-flower bouquet. They create a look that is both effortless and edgy and allow the beauty of the individual flower to shine through. Single-stem bouquets are also a more budget-friendly option, as they require less time and money to create.

Roses are a classic choice for single-stem bouquets, but other flowers such as peonies, proteas, hydrangeas, magnolias, and sunflowers also make gorgeous options. For a unique and budget-friendly option, consider a glamelia or composite bouquet, where the petals of many different flowers are used to create one large flower.

• A bridesmaid holds a single rose bouquet, as seen in a photo by Nathan Westerfield via Southern Weddings.
• A bridesmaid carries a single rose wrapped in ribbon, adding a romantic touch to a black dress, as seen in a photo by Christina McNeill.
• A bridesmaid holds a single closed rose, as seen in a photo by Alea Lovely via Ruffled.
• A flower girl carries a single peony, as seen in a photo by Diana Marie Photography via Elizabeth Anne Designs.

Corsages

If you're looking for an alternative to bouquets for your bridesmaids, consider corsages. Corsages are a great way to include florals in your wedding party's look without the hassle and expense of a full bouquet. Here are some reasons why corsages could be a perfect choice for your special day:

Cost-Effective

Comfort and Convenience

Bridesmaids may feel more comfortable having something to hold while walking down the aisle, and corsages provide a simple and elegant solution. They also free up your bridesmaids' hands during the reception, so they can hold their drinks and interact more easily.

Versatile and Customisable

Timeless and Elegant

Perfect for Non-Traditional Weddings

If you're looking to add unique and non-traditional elements to your wedding, corsages are a great choice. They offer a modern twist on the traditional bouquet, especially if you're having a relaxed or outdoor wedding. Corsages can also be paired with other accessories, such as lanterns or candles, for a truly distinctive look.

Memorable Keepsakes

Hair pieces

Flowers in the hair are a great alternative to bouquets for bridesmaids. There are endless options for hair flowers, from a single oversized statement flower to floral crowns and headdresses.

One option is to choose a single oversized flower as a statement piece. Select a bloom that matches your wedding's theme and colour palette. For example, if you're having a rustic wedding, you could opt for a single sunflower or a large palm leaf.

For a more subtle and elegant look, small, muted blooms can be used. Combined with a wavy hairstyle and a flowy dress, a floral headband creates an instant boho look.

If you're looking for something more dramatic, consider a headdress. Headdresses are similar to floral crowns but are usually much larger and more eye-catching. This is a great option if you want your bridesmaids to stand out and make a statement. You could even consider using slightly different designs for each bridesmaid to add interest and variety.

Another idea is to incorporate flowers into an exquisite updo. This can be a great way to add a touch of elegance and romance to your bridesmaids' look.

Mason jars

If you're looking for a rustic and romantic alternative to bridesmaid bouquets, consider using Mason jars. They are a versatile and affordable option that can be easily personalised to match your wedding theme and colours. Here are some ideas for how to use Mason jars instead of bouquets for your bridesmaids:

Painting and Decorating

You can paint Mason jars to match your wedding colour palette or decorate them with lace, twine, or ribbons. For a beach or tropical-themed wedding, you could fill the jars with sand or shells.

Flowers and Foliage

Candles and Lights

Adding an (electric) candle to the Mason jar is another way to create a romantic atmosphere. For an evening or winter wedding, lanterns or fairy lights can be used inside the jars to create a glowing effect.

Table Centrepieces

Other Fillers

If you're looking for something other than flowers, you can fill Mason jars with fairy lights, lavender, or sand and shells for a beach-themed wedding. For a unique touch, try adding an (electric) candle or a balloon.

Balloons

Giant Balloons

Giant balloons are a playful and bold option for couples who want to make a statement. They can be filled with helium or nitrogen and decorated with ribbons or silk to match your wedding colour palette.

Balloon Bouquets

Create balloon bouquets by combining single balloons with flower arrangements. You can also use balloons in the shape of letters, numbers, flowers, or hearts for a creative and personalised touch.

Floating Balloons

Balloon Colours and Designs

When choosing balloons, consider the colour palette of your wedding. Select balloons in complementary or contrasting colours to your bridesmaids' dresses. You can also choose balloons with interesting designs, such as floral prints or metallic finishes, to add a unique twist.

Balloon Accessories

Enhance your balloon choices with stylish accessories. Ribbons, silk fabrics, and tassels can be used to decorate the balloons and add texture and elegance to your bridesmaids' looks. You can also incorporate lights or small floral arrangements around the balloons for a romantic touch.

Combining Balloons with Flowers

If you want to include flowers in your bridesmaids' ensembles, consider combining balloons with small floral arrangements. For example, you can attach single blooms or flower garlands to the balloon strings or create a mixed bouquet of flowers and balloons.

Frequently asked questions