Corsages and boutonnieres are small floral arrangements worn by members of the wedding party and close family members. They add a touch of elegance and help distinguish the special people involved in the celebration. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of who traditionally receives corsages and boutonnieres at weddings, along with some modern adaptations.
History of Corsages and Boutonnieres
The tradition of wearing flowers at weddings dates back to ancient times when people believed that the scent of certain flowers could ward off evil spirits. Over time, this evolved into the practice of wearing corsages and boutonnieres as a way to honor and recognize important individuals at the event.
Who Gets a Corsage?
Traditionally, corsages are worn by the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom. They can either be pinned to their clothing or worn around their wrist. In some cases, other female relatives or close family friends may also receive corsages. Here is a list of individuals who may receive a corsage:
- Mother of the bride
- Mother of the groom
- Grandmothers of the bride and groom
- Stepmothers or other significant female figures
- Female officiant
Who Gets a Boutonniere?
Boutonnieres are traditionally worn by the men in the wedding party and close male family members. They are usually pinned to the left lapel of their suit or tuxedo. Here is a list of individuals who may receive a boutonniere:
- Groom
- Best man
- Groomsmen
- Father of the bride
- Father of the groom
- Grandfathers of the bride and groom
- Stepfathers or other significant male figures
- Ring bearer (if old enough)
- Male officiant
Modern Adaptations and Considerations
In recent years, some couples have chosen to forego traditional rules and opt for more personalized approaches when it comes to corsages and boutonnieres. Here are some modern adaptations and considerations:
- Gender-neutral options: Instead of adhering to traditional gender roles, consider offering floral accessories to all members of the wedding party, regardless of their gender.
- Alternative accessories: Some couples choose to replace corsages and boutonnieres with other floral accessories, such as floral crowns, hairpieces, or pocket squares.
- Customization: Personalize corsages and boutonnieres to reflect the individual’s style, relationship to the couple, or the wedding theme.
Conclusion
While there are traditional guidelines for who receives corsages and boutonnieres at weddings, it’s important to remember that your wedding is a unique celebration of your love. Feel free to adapt or change these traditions to best suit your preferences and the individuals involved in your special day. The most important thing is to honor and recognize the special people who are a part of your wedding journey.
Choosing the Right Florist
When selecting a florist for your wedding, it’s essential to find one who understands your vision and can create beautiful corsages and boutonnieres to suit your theme and preferences. Be sure to discuss your ideas, the number of corsages and boutonnieres you will need, and your budget with your florist. It’s also a good idea to book your florist well in advance, as popular wedding dates can fill up quickly.
Helpful Tips for Corsages and Boutonnieres
Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning and incorporating corsages and boutonnieres into your wedding:
- Coordinate with your wedding colors: Choose flowers and accents for your corsages and boutonnieres that complement your wedding color scheme.
- Keep it simple: While it’s tempting to go all out with elaborate floral arrangements, remember that corsages and boutonnieres are accessories and should not overpower the overall look of the wedding party.
- Preserve them as keepsakes: Consider preserving your corsages and boutonnieres as a special keepsake from your wedding day. Many florists offer preservation services, or you can try DIY methods like air-drying or silica gel drying.
- Be mindful of allergies: If any members of your wedding party have allergies, be sure to choose flowers that won’t cause any adverse reactions.
With these tips in mind, you can ensure that the corsages and boutonnieres you choose for your wedding are a beautiful and meaningful part of your celebration. Remember to have fun and enjoy the process of selecting the perfect floral accents for your special day.
