The Ultimate Guide To Boutonnieres (2024)

The Ultimate Guide To Boutonnieres (1)

Chances are, if you are here, you are looking to know a few things about Boutonnieres. Every wedding i have the honor of photographing, there is always one sure thing that happens…helping put on all the damn boutonnieres! So, Get ready to learn everything you need to know about this fancy chest garnish in this Ultimate Guide To Boutonnieres.

First off, what the heck is a boutonniere? It’s a small flower arrangement worn by the groom on the lapel of their suits or tux on special occasions, particularly weddings. They have a long been a traditional part of weddings, but they can also be a cool and personalized accessory to complete your wedding ensemble.

But before we start, have you thought about who will capture you when you are looking dapper AF on your wedding day? Hi, I’m TJ, and I would love to learn all about you and what you’re cooking up for you wedding. And hey, while we’re at it, let’s make sure those boutonnieres are looking sharp too.

REACH OUT TO ME TODAY

History of Boutonnieres

The word “boutonniere” comes from the French word “boutonnière,” which means buttonhole. They were first worn in the 16th century when men used to wear flowers in the buttonholes of their jackets as a symbol of their allegiance to a particular political faction. Over time, the practice became more fashionable, and became a popular accessory for special occasions that you see today.

Types of Boutonnieres

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You wouldn’t think there are more than one type of boutonniere, but there are several types that you can choose from. The most popular types include:

  • Single Bloom: This is the most common type. It consists of a single flower, usually a rose or a carnation, with some greenery.
  • Cluster: This type consists of multiple small flowers or blooms arranged in a cluster.
  • Theme: This boutonniere is designed to match the theme of the event. For example, if the event has a beach theme, th
  • ey may include seashells or starfish.
  • Herbal: This boutonniere includes herbs, such as rosemary or lavender, and is often used for rustic or bohemian weddings.
  • Pocket: This dapper look, pop out of the breast pocket combining a vibrant pocket square with fresh flowers can really stand out.

If you are looking for some more boutonniere ideas, check out this guide on 50 boutonniere ideas for any wedding style.

How To Wear A Boutonniere

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Attaching one is a simple process, but it’s important to do it correctly to ensure that it stays in place throughout your wedding. Here are the steps to follow when attaching a boutonniere:

  1. Make sure that the stem is clean and free of any leaves or thorns.
  2. Hold the boutonniere by the stem with one hand and the lapel of the jacket or suit with the other hand.
  3. Position it on the left lapel of the jacket or suit so that the bloom is facing up and slightly angled towards the shoulder.
  4. Insert the stem through the buttonhole of the lapel.
  5. If the buttonhole is too small or non-existent, you can use a pin to secure the stem to the lapel. Insert the pin through the stem and the lapel, making sure not to poke through the other side of the fabric.
  6. Adjust the position so that it’s straight and level with the lapel.
  7. Make sure that is secure and won’t fall off during the event.

Boutonniere Care

To keep your daring chest enhancement looking it’s finest, i recommend the following tips.

  • Store in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to wear it.
  • Keep away from water.
  • Avoid crushing the petals or blooms.
  • Remove at the end of the event and dispose of it properly.

Boutonniere FAQs

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Here are some handy frequently asked questions about boutonnieres.

Do the groomsmen wear a different boutonniere?

These gents can wear a boutonniere, but not the same as the groom. Theirs should be a little different — or at least smaller — than the groom’s, while still following the same style and color palette.

Does anyone else wear a boutonniere at the wedding?

Fathers and grandfathers generally receive a boutonniere, as well. These can be in the same style as the groom or groomsmen, or completely different — it’s entirely up to you.

Who pins 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.

To Wrap Things Up

Boutonnieres are a classic accessory that can add just the right amount of kick to your wedding style. With this ultimate guide to boutonnieres, you now have everything you need to know to choose the perfect one for your Wedding.

And hey, if you cared this much about a boutonniere for your wedding, chances are you probably care even more for your wedding photography. My name is TJ and I help couples just like you elevate their wedding and embrace their story with relaxed, candid, and real wedding photography. I would love to have a quick chat and learn all about you and what you are cooking up for your wedding.

REACH OUT TO ME TODAY

The Ultimate Guide To Boutonnieres (2024)

FAQs

The Ultimate Guide To Boutonnieres? ›

If you have to make them the day or night before your event, be sure to leave the stems exposed and place the boutonniere in a shallow cup of water. You may also place them in the refrigerator overnight; however, be sure to spray them with water so they don't dry out.

What are the tips for boutonnieres? ›

Tips/Tricks
  1. Step 1): ...
  2. Boutonnieres go on the LEFT lapel with the flower facing TOWARDS you. ...
  3. Your boutonniere should come with one or two pins. ...
  4. Diagonally, pin the bout through the thickest part of the flower.
  5. Continuing the diagonal angle, push the pin back through the lapel. ...
  6. Do the shake test.

How far in advance should I make boutonnieres? ›

If you have to make them the day or night before your event, be sure to leave the stems exposed and place the boutonniere in a shallow cup of water. You may also place them in the refrigerator overnight; however, be sure to spray them with water so they don't dry out.

How to make a boutonniere step by step? ›

DIY Boutonnière
  1. Step 1: What Do You Need? In terms of equipment, this DIY With Flowers post is quite simple. ...
  2. Step 2: Choose Your Focal Flower. ...
  3. Step 3: Add Other Flowers. ...
  4. Step 4: Wrap Them Together. ...
  5. Step 5: Add Greenery. ...
  6. Step 6: Cut the Stems. ...
  7. Step 7: Wrap Everything Together. ...
  8. Step 8: Attach to Your Jacket.

How to choose a boutonniere? ›

In conclusion, choosing the perfect boutonniere for your wedding day is an important decision that should be made with care. Consider the color scheme and floral design of your wedding ceremony, the style of the wedding, the size of the boutonniere, and any special details or personal touches you'd like to add.

How many flowers should be in a boutonniere? ›

In general, a boutonniere contains 1 focal flower stem, 2 secondary stems, and 1 pruned green. Meanwhile, a corsage usually has 2 focal stems, 2 filler stems, and 1 pruned stem. Say you want boutonnieres for the groom, best man, 4 groomsmen, ring bearer, officiant, 2 fathers, and 2 godparents.

What is the most popular type of boutonniere on the market? ›

TYPES OF BOUTONNIERES

The most popular types include: Single Bloom: This is the most common type. It consists of a single flower, usually a rose or a carnation, with some greenery.

How do you keep boutonnieres from wilting? ›

Hydrating your wearable flowers in an airtight container and covering the arranged flowers with a damp paper towel in a “hydration chamber” prolongs the life of your wearable flowers. Therefore, making your boutonnieres or corsages even a few days in advance of your event is feasible if they are well hydrated.

Are boutonnieres still in style? ›

Although some people believe that boutonnieres are out of style, they are still seen at many weddings and can add a touch of elegance to the groom's attire. While boutonnieres remain a staple for traditional weddings, there are alternatives nowadays. Opinions vary on the current style status of boutonnieres.

Is it cheaper to make your own boutonniere? ›

Corsages and Boutonnières can be pricey.

Making your own corsage is also great for customizing a particular color or look that you might want. Once I taught myself how to make a corsage and Boutonnière – I have never bought a store bought again. The corsage and Boutonnière I made below cost $6 dollars total – for both!

How do you put on a boutonniere easy? ›

Insert the needle at a downward angle making sure it runs through both sides of the lapel. Be sure to stick the needle through the thickest part of the boutonniere, the flower stem. It's important to insert the needle at a downward angle to ensure that the boutonniere stays in place throughout the event.

What pins to use for boutonniere? ›

You should use a 1.5 in (3.81 cm) pin to attach the boutonniere onto the lapel of a jacket. Remember to pin from behind the lapel to the front, go over the boutonniere stem, then come around to the back of the lapel.

What is the standard cost for a boutonniere? ›

Altar flower arrangements cost an average of $500, while the groom's boutonniere will cost an average of $30.

Should groom's boutonniere be different? ›

Make the Groom's Boutonnière Unique

There should be a difference between the groom's and groomsmen's boutonnières, just as there is a difference between the bride's and bridesmaids' bouquet. However, because they're so small, this difference is usually very subtle. "Our grooms always get a little something extra!

How should corsages and boutonnieres be worn? ›

The simple answer is that a corsage is typically worn by the woman on her left chest(pin-on) or wrist(wristlet) while the boutonniere is worn by the man on his left lapel. There are several different styles of corsages and boutonnieres which can be customized to match the dress color.

Is the girl supposed to pin the boutonniere? ›

Boutonnieres. Proper etiquette dictates that the girl buys a boutonniere for her date. Boutonnieres are one or two blossoms of flowers to be worn on the left lapel of his jacket. The girl pins the boutonniere on her date's jacket when he arrives to pick her up for the dance.

How long should the stem be on a boutonniere? ›

Choose a particular stem and/or flower for the boutonniere. Use a stem cutter or sharp knife to cut the stem to a length of approximately three inches.

Who usually gets the boutonniere? ›

The people who traditionally wear a boutonniere include: the groom, groomsmen, the bride's dad, the groom's dad, any ring bearers, ushers, all grandfathers, any male readers and you can even have one for your male officiant if you have one.

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