Who has buttonholes and corsages at your wedding?
The answer is anyone you choose but here is a guide to help you.
The most popular choice with couples is for the groom to have a buttonhole with all his groomsmen and any immediate male family members. Some couples choose just for the groom to have a buttonhole. The choice is yours. All buttonholes are provided with a pin so they can be secured onto suits. The grooms buttonhole can be made slightly different so that it is a little extra special and let’s not forget brides can wear buttonholes too.
Corsages are for immediate female family members but this is not essential. They are made with a magnet so that they do not damage a dress and can be made in any colour but it’s recommended that they are white with foliage, so that they match any outfit.
What Are Buttonholes?
A buttonhole or boutonniere is a small, single flower (or a small arrangement of flowers) typically worn by the groom and other important male guests, like groomsmen, fathers, and grandfathers. It’s usually pinned to the left lapel of their suit jacket or blazer.
Who Wears Buttonholes?
Groom: Typically, the groom’s boutonniere is slightly more elaborate or unique to differentiate it from others.
Groomsmen: Groomsmen wear matching or coordinating buttonholes to complement the groom’s boutonniere and the wedding colour scheme.
Fathers and Grandfathers: It’s customary for the fathers and grandfathers of the bride and groom to wear a boutonniere, often simpler than the groom’s.
Ring Bearer: If you have a young ring bearer, they can also wear a boutonniere to match the groomsmen.
Common flowers for boutonnieres include roses, carnations, and baby’s breath. They often match or complement the bride’s bouquet or the bridesmaids’ bouquets. Greenery like eucalyptus or ivy is also often added.
What Are Corsages?
A corsage is a small arrangement of flowers worn by women, typically on the wrist (wrist corsage) or pinned to the dress. It’s a way to honour the important women in the wedding party.
Who Wears Corsages?
Mothers and Grandmothers: The mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom traditionally wear corsages.
Other Honoured Guests: Sometimes, other female guests who play a special role, like godmothers, aunts, or sisters, may also wear corsages.
Corsages usually include smaller flowers like mini roses, orchids, or spray roses. They are designed to complement the wedding theme, colour scheme, and bouquets.
It’s common for the buttonholes and corsages to match the overall wedding theme and the bridal party flowers. For example, if the bride’s bouquet has peonies and roses, these same flowers might appear in the boutonnieres and corsages, just in smaller arrangements.
Some couples choose to personalize boutonnieres or corsages with small charms, ribbons, or other meaningful elements. When choosing wrist corsages, ensure they are lightweight and comfortable, especially for older guests.