I often get asked by my couples who should receive a corsage and boutonniere at their wedding. While I truly believe that everyone should do what makes sense for them and what feels right for their big day (after-all there is no right or wrong answer!) I do think looking at what is customary is a great starting point for navigating this question.
First, let’s look at why flowers are even given out at weddings in the first place. Historically, flowers have been used as gifts for symbolic purposes. A gift of flowers can be an expression of love, friendship, congratulations, encouragement, or honor. Personal wedding flowers such as corsages and boutonnieres are given at weddings to recognize and honor the important people in your life and any noteworthy wedding guests. What a sentimental gesture! Small, simple, and sweet, a corsage or boutonniere is quite meaningful.
This customary tradition generally applies to immediate family members, mainly parents and grandparents, and anyone who has a special role at your wedding, such as your officiant, a friend reading a poem during your ceremony, or your sister giving a toast at your reception.
MOST COMMON RECIPIENTS OF WEDDING CORSAGES
- Mother of the Bride/Groom
- Grandmother of the Bride/Groom
- Female Officiant
MOST COMMON RECIPIENTS OF WEDDING BOUTONNIERES
- Groomsmen
- Ring Bearer
- Father of the Bride/Groom
- Grandfather of the Bride/Groom
- Male Officiant
OTHER IMPORTANT PEOPLE TO CONSIDER
- Sister/Brother of the Bride/Groom
- Aunt/Uncle of the Bride/Groom
- Step-Parent of the Bride/Groom
- Speaker/Reader/Musician
- Greeters/Ushers
This list is not exhaustive, but does cover most of the key wedding guests and distinguished event roles. Weddings are very personal and any floral traditions, I believe, should always be up to the couple. Some couples don’t give out any boutonnieres/corsages outside of the wedding party and other couples have corsages + boutonnieres made for each and every guest (well, okay, I have never seen this done, but if you are considering this for your wedding I think it’s a fabulous idea!).
The incredible pictures, courtesy of Chris Loring Photography, showcased in this post were from my own wedding in 2017. The beautiful florals were designed by Helen of Artemis Flower Farm. While always a Florist and Wedding Vendor at heart, I wanted to be a bride on my wedding day. And only a bride. It was wonderful.
So what are your thoughts on wedding corsages/boutonnieres? Is there anyone you would want to especially give a floral piece to that is not on this list? Let me know in the comments down below!
