Lessons in wedding flower etiquette (2024)

Flowers do so much for the atmosphere at a wedding so it is important to give some thought to your floral arrangements on the day. So what Kind of flowers should be at a wedding? - Different flowers have different symbolic meanings which can help the couple to express their feelings for each other.

Who Pays for Wedding Flowers?

Traditionally the Groom is expected to pay for the flowers in the church and for the wedding party With the bride's parents pay for the flowers at the reception venue. The men should be given buttonholes, bridesmaids require a bouquet and the respective mothers receive a corsage.

The Church

Remember that some churches and other wedding venues hold more than one wedding ceremony per day. Particularly in the busy periods of Spring and Summer. If this is the case with your wedding venue think about contacting the people getting married before and/or after you and sharing the cost of the floral decorations. If it's a church wedding you may find that the people at the church will be happy to help you arrange the flowers and provide advice on where and how to arrange them.

Bear in mind, however, that a wedding venue may not have time during busy periods to change floral arrangements for each couple and may require all the weddings on that day to use the same displays.

The Venue

Although reception venues don't have more than one reception per day you may find that some venues include the cost of floral arrangements in their service. In this case you should make sure that the flower theme at the reception matches the rest of the day. Alternatively, ask them for a quote without flowers and use your own florist to decorate the reception venue.

For those venues which allow you to use your own florist to decorate. Ask the florist to double check with the management a couple of days before that the venue will be accessible on the morning of the wedding. There are few hard and fast rules about floral decorations at the reception venue. Generally there is a large arrangement on the top table and smaller arrangements on each of the guests' tables. There is usually also a large arrangement at the point where the reception line up is to take place at the point where the guests enter the reception venue.

Ask the florist to visit your reception venue with you and ask their advice on how to decorate the rooms. Smaller rooms are generally quite easy to do but large rooms, halls or marquees take a bit more planning and thought. Since those rooms have a lot of space it can be expensive to decorate them with floral arrangements. So consider using flowering plants and shrubs. Flowering pot plants can be an ideal way to decorate a large space cost effectively. Unless you are having a very simple wedding or you have a friend or relative who genuinely knows what they are doing. It is generally advisable to use a professional florist. Not only will they will co-ordinate the flower arrangements at all stages of the day they will also be able to advise which flowers are in season. Therefore less expensive, as well as being able to advise you on the symbolism behind your choice of flowers.

Finding a florist is usually one of the easier elements in organising the wedding. It makes sense to ask first at the wedding and reception venues. Since they have weddings daily and will have seen the work of just about all the local florists. A good florist will usually be happy to oblige. Choose your florist well before the wedding since good florists is usually booked months in advance. The exact choice of flowers and colours can wait until 1-2 months before and should only be made once the colours of the wedding have been chosen.

The Bouquet

When choosing the bouquet, keep in mind the two essential features; colour and form. The base colour for the bouquet is traditionally white. To symbolise purity but the proper use of one or two elements of colour can really bring the bouquet alive. The form of the bouquet can either be long and trailing or compact and bunched. The bride's body shape and style of dress should be major factors in deciding which type of bouquet to go for. Again, a good florist will probably be able to advise.

Bridesmaids' bouquets: The bridesmaids usually carry smaller and much less detailed bouquets. The colour and form should complement the bride's if possible, but should certainly match their dresses.

Buttonholes

The male members of the wedding party wear Buttonholes.

The mothers of the bride and groom respectively wear Corsages. Which are similar in idea to buttonholes but much larger and more detailed.

Looking for floral inspiration? Check out our latestPinterestinspired by all things Spring!

Don't forget to visit Bride & Groom Direct foraffordable wedding stationery and accessories.

Lessons in wedding flower etiquette (2024)

FAQs

What is the etiquette for wedding flowers? ›

It's important to remember family members on your wedding flower list. Traditionally, mothers and grandmothers will wear a corsage with two or three blooms, worn either on the wrist or pinned to their left lapel. Alternatively, they can carry a miniature bouquet or a single stem.

What is the purpose of flowers at a wedding? ›

Sending good wishes to a newly married couple has always been the proper thing to do. The ancient Romans thought so too and incorporated flowers into wedding ceremonies because they were known as symbols of fertility, fidelity, and new beginnings.

Who traditionally pays for flowers at a wedding? ›

The groom's family provides the flowers involved in a wedding ceremony. That includes the bride's bouquet, the groomsmen and usher boutonnieres, and the corsages and mini bouquets for the both mothers and grandmothers.

Who gives the bride her bouquet? ›

The maid of honor.

This is by far the most popular choice. After all, one of the MOH's main responsibilities is to help the bride before, during, and after the wedding. Hand it to her at the start of the ceremony and let her keep it until after your first kiss.

Who pays for wedding corsages? ›

Who buys the corsage and boutonniere for a wedding? Traditionally the groom's family buys the bridal bouquet, corsages, and boutonnieres. Corsages usually go to mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom. Boutonnieres are won by the groom, groomsmen, fathers and grandfathers.

What should the mother of the groom not do? ›

Here are a few things a mother-of-the-groom shouldn't do.
  • Don't overshadow the bride's mother. ...
  • Don't act (or dress) like a bridesmaid. ...
  • Don't get too critical. ...
  • Don't steal the bride's spotlight with your mother-of-the-groom outfit. ...
  • Don't try to invite extra guests. ...
  • Don't skip the pre-wedding events.
Jul 2, 2019

What should groom's parents pay for? ›

As a guide, here's a list of the expenses traditionally covered by the parents of the groom: the wedding rings, officiant's fee, marriage license, the bride's bouquet, boutonnieres and corsages for the immediate family, music (band/DJ), liquor at the reception and the honeymoon.

What do grooms parents pay for flowers? ›

The groom's family pays for the following flowers: bridal bouquet, groomsmen and ushers boutonnieres and mother's and grandmother's corsages/mini bouquets.

What is a reasonable budget for wedding flowers? ›

According to our friends at Weddingwire.com, the average cost of wedding flowers in the U.S. is around $1,500 for small to medium size weddings and up to $5,000+ for large weddings. Whatever your wedding budget is, it is safe to start with 8-10% of your total budget dedicated to the florals.

How many stems in a bridal bouquet? ›

It can be a single type flower bridal bouquet or a mixed flower one.
...
Bridal BouquetNumber of Flowers for Small Arrangement
Baby's Breath (Gypsophilia) Bridal Bouquet3-5 Stems
Ranunculus Bridal Bouquet8-12 Ranunculus
Carnations8-12 Carnations
Roses and Baby's Breath Bridal Bouquet8-12 Roses
9 more rows

Do you really need flowers at a wedding? ›

And despite what the wedding industry says, it's completely not necessary to have flowers at your wedding to make it “a wedding.” So what do you use to replace flowers? “Nothing,” is a completely acceptable answer, but maybe you just want a flower or bouquet alternative.

Why do brides walk down the aisle with flowers? ›

What does a bouquet symbolise and why do brides carry bouquets. Flowers have been a key part of the bridal look since the ancient Romans started to carry and wear floral garlands to their nuptials as a symbol of fertility, fidelity, and new beginnings.

Are flowers important in a wedding? ›

While people choose flowers for their beauty, their freshness can take your reception to the next level. Your guests will feel more comfortable surrounded by nice aromas and they will bound the fragrance with your special day. And most importantly, people love flowers! They represent joy, happiness, and celebration.

Why does the bride wear something blue? ›

Something blue

Blue is the color of love, purity, faithfulness, and modesty. To keep with tradition, the bride can wear a blue piece of jewelry. But for a modern take, you can write a little note or other small message in blue on the bottom of her shoes.

Who pays for rehearsal dinner? ›

Traditionally, the groom's parents are the hosts of the rehearsal dinner, since the bride's family customarily pays for the wedding. But given the more relaxed standards of modern times, other relatives, close friends, or even the couple themselves can plan and pay for the event.

Who puts the boutonniere on the groom? ›

Typically, the best man or one of the groom's parents will secure the boutonnière on the groom's jacket. But, Gardenia admits that's usually just for the photo op. Since they can be a little tricky to get just right, a stylist, planner, or florist on hand will usually do the final pin.

How much money should the groom's parents give as a wedding gift? ›

Parents of the bride and groom collectively contribute about $19,000 to the wedding, or about two-thirds of the total cost, according to WeddingWire. The bride's parents give an average $12,000, and the groom's, $7,000. Just 1 in 10 couples pays for the wedding entirely on their own, according to TheKnot.com.

What is the role of mother of the groom? ›

Traditionally speaking, the mother of the groom is responsible for planning and hosting the rehearsal dinner with the grooms' father (typically) the night before the wedding. This is one of the biggest mother of the groom responsibilities, so make sure you start planning the dinner about six months in advance.

What do the brides parents pay for? ›

The Bride's Family

Think everything from invitations and stationery (with the exception of rehearsal dinner invites) to accommodations for bridesmaids. Also included are obvious things like the wedding dress, accessories, and hair and makeup.

What color is the mother of the groom supposed to wear? ›

The Best Colors for a Mother of the Groom

"Wear a flattering color that compliments the color palette of the wedding," advises Valiente. For example, jewel tones and earthy hues are perfect for fall nuptials, while formal gowns in navy or silver would be ideal for black-tie weddings.

Does mother of groom speak at rehearsal dinner? ›

According to tradition, the mother and father of the groom give a speech during the rehearsal dinner. This is because traditionally the groom's parents hosted the rehearsal dinner while the bride's parents hosting the wedding.

What does the mother of the groom wear to the rehearsal dinner? ›

If a wedding and rehearsal dinner invitation specify a theme or dress code, it must be respected. If the fine print says 'black tie', then the mother of the bride should wear a full-length gown (the same goes for the mother of the groom).

Does the groom dance with his mother? ›

The mother-son dance is a popular tradition for the groom during wedding reception celebrations. The groom will take his mother out on the dance floor for a special dance together for this tradition. It is a time for the groom to focus on his mother and create a special moment together one-on-one.

What does the mother of the groom buy the bride? ›

These items can include jewelry, watches, or a personalized handkerchief. Family heirlooms are warm tender gestures that symbolize the true delight that the mother of the groom feels about having her daughter-in-law marry into the clan.

Who gets invited to rehearsal dinner? ›

For obvious reasons, anyone who is in your wedding should be invited to the rehearsal dinner. This includes bridesmaids and the maid of honor as well as the groomsmen and best man. You should also invite the parents of the flower girl and ring bearers, even if they are not in the wedding themselves.

Does the mother of the groom get flowers? ›

Tradition calls for corsages to be given to mothers of the bride and groom. For a different approach, pin a flower in her hair or give her a small nosegay to carry. While lilies and roses are classics, incorporating each mother's favorite flower or one that complements her ensemble is a thoughtful gesture.

Does the mother of the groom get a gift? ›

Some soonlyweds choose to give the mother of the groom a gift as a couple, while others prefer to take care of their own parents' presents. It's also acceptable for the groom's S.O. to buy the mother of the groom a gift, especially if she really went the extra mile in fulfilling her wedding duties.

Does the groom get his parents a gift? ›

You may be wondering, "Do you have to get your parents wedding gifts?" Yes, it's customary to give parents and parents-in-law gifts before, on or shortly after the wedding day.

What is the average cost of a bridal bouquet? ›

Bridal bouquets

According to WeddingWire, the average cost of a bridal bouquet is $160. However, when it comes to bridal bouquets, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Prices will vary greatly depending on size, complexity, the types of flowers you wish to include, and the area where you live.

How much do hydrangeas cost for a wedding? ›

Hydrangea and roses small is $135.00 - $150.00, medium is $180.00 - $220.00, and large is $250.00 and up.

How much does a bouquet of roses cost? ›

The rose-buying public still encounters a wide variety in pricing - anything from $10 or under for a dozen red roses at the local corner store to $20 at the supermarket, to more than $90 at a high-end florist.

What are the 4 things a bride needs? ›

The tradition is based on an Old English rhyme that dates back to 19th-century Lancashire. It describes the items a bride should have on her wedding day: "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, a sixpence in your shoe."

Does mother of the bride carry flowers down the aisle? ›

Mothers of the bride and groom play an important role in any wedding celebration. But since they're not necessarily a part of the bridal party, they don't need to carry a wedding bouquet down the aisle.

What can be gifted to bride? ›

Floral Print Cosmetics Pouch Makeup Pouch Vanity Case Jewellery Pouch Stationery Pencil Case Travel Organiser Travel Pouch Bridal Gift.

What comes first bouquet or garter toss? ›

Do I Throw the Bouquet or Garter First? In most wedding receptions the bride will do the bouquet toss first and then the groom will do the removal of the garter. The woman who catches the bouquet will then have to sit down and let the man who caught the garter to put on said garter on her leg.

How big is too big for a bridal bouquet? ›

Wedding bouquets can range from a smaller size of 6"-7" up to 11"-12" wide, as well as a length up to 18"-20"! It's also important to remember that (on average) your wedding bouquet should be larger than those of your bridal party. After all, this is your day! You should be the center of attention in every way.

How many hearts before you can give a bouquet? ›

A gift that shows your romantic interest. 200g any time after reaching an 8-heart friendship with a marriage candidate.

Do you still wear a flower at a wedding? ›

Do I Have to Use Flowers? Absolutely not. Greenery, paper, acorns, pocket watches, Lego... just about anything can be used to make a wedding buttonhole. If you're not into flowers, don't be afraid to say no to the status quo and try something just as unique as you are.

What is a reasonable amount to spend on wedding flowers? ›

According to our friends at Weddingwire.com, the average cost of wedding flowers in the U.S. is around $1,500 for small to medium size weddings and up to $5,000+ for large weddings. Whatever your wedding budget is, it is safe to start with 8-10% of your total budget dedicated to the florals.

Does the bride or groom pay for flowers? ›

The groom is traditionally expected to pay for the marriage license and officiant's fees, and buy the bouquet for his "date" (the bride), as well as her engagement and wedding rings and a gift; he should also purchase boutonnieres and gifts for his groomsmen.

Are corsages still a thing for weddings? ›

Wedding Party Members

While bridesmaids typically carry bouquets, you may also choose to give them corsages as a unique alternative. Other wedding party members, such as junior bridesmaids, flower girls or house party members, may also be given corsages.

What colors are you not supposed to wear to a wedding? ›

Here are the colours that are off limits for wedding guest attire.
  • Any shade of white. OK, this is probably pretty obvious, but you really can't wear white to a wedding. ...
  • Gold (and other metallics) ...
  • Light pastels. ...
  • Neon. ...
  • The colour the bridesmaids are wearing.
Aug 16, 2019

Do you wear a bra on your wedding day? ›

Not only do bras not work with most wedding gowns, but most brides actually don't even want to wear them. "I find that many brides are opposed to wearing a bra under the gown," says Chapman. However, everyone's body type is different, and brides with larger chests may not feel comfortable without the support of a bra.

How many flowers do you need for a wedding? ›

How Many Flowers Do I Need to Make a Bouquet?
ArrangementStem Count for Small ArrangementStem Count for Large Arrangement
Peony Bouquet3-4 Stems10-12 Stems
Garden Rose Bouquet3-4 Stems10-12 Stems
Hydrangea Bouquet2-3 Stems6-8 Stems
Rose Bouquet8-12 Stems21-25 Stems
2 more rows

How much money should groom's parents give? ›

On average, the bride's parents usually spend 44 percent of the overall budget, while the couple contributes 43 percent and the groom's parents pop for about 12 percent.

Are corsages still a thing 2022? ›

Prom Season 2022 is shaping up to be quite a busy one! Though the traditional corsages and boutonnieres are still extremely popular, we're seeing the addition of more bouquets and softer colors.

What can I use instead of a corsage for a wedding? ›

Mothers of the bride and groom have been wearing wrist corsages forever.
...
Here are 15 great ideas (and alternatives) for mothers of the bride and groom corsages.
  • Floral Necklace. ...
  • Floral Hair Accessory. ...
  • Nosegay Bouquet. ...
  • Tussie Mussie. ...
  • Small Boutonniere. ...
  • Ring Corsage. ...
  • Floral Hoop. ...
  • Floral Spray for a Clutch Bag.
Apr 17, 2020

What is the most popular style of corsage? ›

The wrist corsage, also known as the bracelet corsage, is the most popular prom style. A wrist corsage is a small arrangement, usually three or four flowers or perhaps even a single flower and is typically worn on the left wrist.

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