Corsages and Boutonniere FAQs
If you have questions about corsages and boutonnieres for your wedding and want to know which one is right for you, you’re not alone. As a wedding florist at a busy flower shop for 15 years, I realized that many brides were not sure what types of flowers were best for corsages and boutonnieres and wanted to know which one was appropriate. Here are some of the most popular questions that kept coming up:
What is the difference between buttonholes, corsages and wristbands?
The essential difference between a buttonhole and a corsage is the bow. Boutonnieres are for men and do not have a bow. They are worn on the label, on the left side near the man’s heart. Corsages are for women, they usually have a bow and are more elegant. They can be worn on the lapel, although they are not ideal to wear on dresses with transparencies or delicate fabrics. Wrist bands are corsages that are attached to a bracelet to be worn on the left wrist. They are popular with the younger crowd and are worn almost exclusively at proms and are often worn at weddings. It seems that grandmothers still tend to prefer lapel corsages. The mothers are about 50/50.
Who wears body flowers at a wedding?
Boutonnieres are worn on the lapel by men in the bridal party, including the best man, ring bearer, and ushers. The labels of the parents of the groom are also often adorned with a boutonniere. Other important men in your life that you may also want to make boutonnieres for, although they are not necessary, are your grandfather, your master of ceremonies, and your minister. If other significant men participate in the wedding ceremony, such as an uncle or brother, they are candidates for a boutonniere. Corsages are primarily worn by matriarchs at the wedding, such as the mother of the bride or groom. In addition, grandmothers are sometimes graced with the gift of a corsage. Finally, if any other women are playing a key role in the wedding ceremony, such as a sister reading or a bride singing and playing the organ, a corsage would be considered.
How much does each cost to make?
This is where you will save a lot of money by making your own. For example, while a typical boutonniere at a florist will set you back between $5 and $25 in Canada and the United States, you can make them at home for $2-3 depending on what flowers you are using to make your boutonnieres and how good deal you can get on your flowers. Why not make all the important men and women in your life feel special with a token of appreciation for their participation that costs you very little to do? Corsages and boutonnieres can also be great for fundraising efforts, as they can be made for much less than they can be sold for, allowing for a high profit margin. For less expensive body flowers, make buttonholes out of daisies or carnations. The mini skin tones are the most daring and economical.
How complicated is it to make buttonholes and corsages?
Whether you’re making one bouquet or making 10 bouquets, you’ll need to do the same preparations. All you need is a step-by-step guide and a little time and patience. Corsages and boutonnieres are easy to make with the right training.
