Bridesmaids Dodging Bouquets: A New Wedding Trend?

The bridal bouquet is a collection of flowers held by the bride as she walks down the aisle. Bridesmaids' bouquets are usually a variation of the bride's bouquet, with slight differences. While the bridal bouquet is meant to complement the bride's dress, bridesmaids' bouquets are meant to complement both the bride's and the other bridesmaids' dresses. The bouquets should be cohesive and similar, but not too extravagant so as not to outshine the bride. The cost of bridesmaids' bouquets can vary depending on the type of flowers used, the season, and the location, but they can be expensive, so some brides may choose to have their bridesmaids carry single-stem flowers or alternative arrangements such as feathers, fans, or parasols. Ultimately, the choice of what the bridesmaids carry is up to the bride and her vision for the wedding.

The bride's bouquet is dodged by the bridesmaids due to superstition

The tradition of bridesmaids dodging the bridal bouquet is steeped in superstition and has evolved over time. In medieval Europe, wedding guests would chase the bride and rip pieces off her dress, believing it to be a symbol of good luck. To distract these eager guests, brides began tossing objects, later settling on throwing the bouquet as a decoy. Today, the bouquet toss is a playful tradition, where the catcher is believed to be the next in line to marry, passing on good fortune and fertility from the bride.

While the bouquet toss is meant to be a joyful and whimsical moment, some modern bridesmaids and guests may choose to dodge the bouquet due to their own superstitions or beliefs. For some, the idea of predicting or competing for the next wedding may feel uncomfortable or outdated. Additionally, the competitive nature of the bouquet toss may lead to injuries or accidental mishaps.

Another reason bridesmaids may dodge the bouquet is to avoid the spotlight or intense competition during the event. As the tradition has evolved, some may view it as a forceful or outdated ritual, especially if they are not interested in marriage or prefer a more low-key role in the wedding.

Furthermore, in modern times, the emphasis has shifted towards creating memorable and enjoyable experiences for all guests, including bridesmaids. Instead of participating in the bouquet toss, they may prefer alternative activities that foster inclusivity and celebrate singledom or friendship.

Lastly, the bouquet itself may be a factor in a bridesmaid's decision to dodge it. As bridal bouquets become more elaborate and expensive, the thought of tossing it over one's head can be heartbreaking for the bride and dangerous for those trying to catch it.

The bridesmaids' bouquets are too heavy

It's your big day and you want everything to be perfect, but you've just realised the bridesmaids' bouquets are too heavy. Here are some tips to help you navigate this situation:

Adjust the Size:

Consider reducing the size of the bouquets. Smaller bouquets can still be beautiful and elegant, and they will be more comfortable for your bridesmaids to hold. Discuss this option with your florist, who can advise on the best way to scale down the arrangements without compromising the overall design.

Simplify the Arrangements:

Opt for simpler floral arrangements. Choose a few select blooms instead of a large assortment of flowers. This will make the bouquets lighter and easier to manage. You can also ask your florist to use more greenery, which is typically lighter than flowers, to create a lush look without adding too much weight.

Choose Different Flowers:

Select lighter flowers. Certain flowers, such as peonies, hydrangeas, and lilies, can be quite heavy. Opt for lighter blooms like roses, baby's breath, or orchids. This will reduce the weight of the bouquets while still maintaining their beauty.

Consider Alternatives:

Explore alternative options if you're concerned about the weight. Instead of traditional bouquets, your bridesmaids could carry floral cuffs, wrist corsages, or small posies. These alternatives will still add a stylish touch to their attire without being too heavy.

Provide Breaks:

Ensure your bridesmaids have breaks between photos and ceremonies to put down their bouquets and give their hands and arms a rest. Constantly holding a heavy bouquet can be tiring, so allowing them to take breaks will be much appreciated.

Remember, while you want your bridesmaids to look their best, it's also important that they feel comfortable and relaxed. Heavy bouquets can be a burden, so don't hesitate to make adjustments or explore alternative options to find a solution that works for everyone.

The bridesmaids dislike the flowers' scent

The scent of a bouquet is an important consideration for a bride and her bridesmaids. While the bouquet's primary purpose nowadays is to be a beautiful accessory, historically, the flowers were chosen for their scent to mask body odours and ward off bad luck.

Today, bridesmaids may dislike the scent of their flowers for a few reasons. Firstly, some flowers have very strong fragrances that can be overpowering and cause headaches or allergies for those holding them. Examples of flowers to avoid in this case are lilies, lilacs, and jasmine. Secondly, some bridesmaids may prefer to avoid strongly scented flowers because they want to showcase a different fragrance, such as their perfume, which may clash with the scent of the bouquet.

If the bridesmaids dislike the scent of their flowers, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, they could choose a different type of flower with a milder fragrance or no fragrance at all. For example, wildflowers, eucalyptus, and foraged finds for a bohemian woodland wedding, or roses, peonies, and hydrangeas for a classic, romantic look. Secondly, they could ask their florist to create a bouquet with a specific fragrance in mind, such as something nostalgic and uplifting, or zesty and energising. Finally, they could opt for alternative bouquet options that don't include flowers at all, such as a floral cuff or a hoop with hanging blossoms.

Ultimately, the bridesmaids should feel comfortable and happy with their bouquets, and if the scent is unpleasant to them, it is worth exploring other options to ensure they enjoy the wedding day.

The bridesmaids are wearing black dresses, and the flowers don't match

When it comes to wedding flowers, brides often spend most of their time focusing on their own bouquets. But it's important to give just as much thought to the bridesmaids' bouquets, as they are an integral part of the wedding and will feature heavily in photographs.

If your bridesmaids are wearing black dresses, there are a few things to consider when it comes to the flowers they will carry. Firstly, you may want to opt for a simple bouquet of white roses or baby's breath, which will truly shine against the little black dresses. You could also add a pop of colour with yellow craspedia or pink orchids, or choose a lush look with roses, ranunculus, and hydrangeas. If you're having a winter wedding, consider a subtle look with greenery such as mint leaves, olive branches, maidenhair ferns, and Andromeda vines.

To ensure the flowers complement the black dresses, it's a good idea to have a vision and stick to it. You can do this by creating a visual mood board that includes swatches, colour families, dress silhouettes, and inspiration photos. This will help you achieve a cohesive look for your bridal party. Another way to ensure cohesion is to use neutral and simple matching bouquets. You can also tie the look together with identical accessories, such as statement necklaces or earrings that can double as bridesmaid gifts.

It's worth noting that while it's traditional for the mother-of-the-bride's gown to complement the colour of the wedding party's attire, it's not necessary for her to match the bridesmaids. However, if the bridesmaids are wearing black, the mother-of-the-bride might want to choose something in silver or grey to complement their dresses.

The bridesmaids want to hold something else, like a book

The bridesmaids' bouquets are an important part of the wedding, as they are among the most heavily photographed details of the day. Traditionally, bridesmaids carry bouquets of flowers that complement the bridal bouquet, their dresses, and the overall theme and vibe of the wedding.

However, some brides may want their bridesmaids to hold something other than a bouquet of flowers. One option is to have them carry a book that holds a special meaning for the bridesmaid or the couple. This idea can be personalised in various ways:

• The bridesmaids could carry the same novel or book, perhaps one that played an important part in the couple's relationship or friendship.
• Each bridesmaid could carry a different book, perhaps their favourite book or one that holds a special memory for them.
• The books could be in specific colours or genres to fit with the wedding theme or colour scheme.
• The books could be wrapped with a bow or ribbon, or placed in a basket, to add a decorative touch.
• Balloons, ribbons, and other trinkets could be attached to the books, perhaps with a monogram or sticker featuring the couple's initials or wedding date.

Carrying a book instead of a bouquet is a unique and memorable way to involve the bridesmaids in the wedding ceremony and can add a personal and creative touch to the celebrations.

Frequently asked questions