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Boutonnieres for Groomsmen

Batul Nafisa Baxamusa
Boutonnieres, the floral accessories worn by men, are similar to the corsage worn by women. Let us have a look at how to make them and wear them with panache on wedding occasions.
These floral accessories look very smart and appealing. They are usually made up of exotic flowers like lilies, roses, carnations, etc. They are worn by the groom in the left lapel of his suit.
It is a symbol of love and fidelity towards his bride. Generally, boutonnières worn by the groom contain one primary flower from the bridal bouquet.

For Groomsmen

A boutonnière consists of a small floral arrangement with some ferns or greens, that is pinned to the suit or tuxedo. It is usually not very expensive, as it is the simplest floral arrangement.
At weddings, the groom, groomsmen, ushers, and the fathers of the bride and groom, wear this floral accessory. If a person other than the bride's father escorts her down the aisle, he needs to wear a boutonnière. If a woman escorts the bride, she needs to wear a corsage.

Colors

The flowers of the groomsmen's boutonnière need to complement the wedding theme. It is usually the bride's family that orders these accessories. The ones for the groomsmen should contain flowers similar to those in the bridesmaids' bouquets.
You can also choose a flower of the same color as the bridesmaids' dresses. The groom wears one that is more lavish and colorful than that of the groomsmen. The officiant may also be given one to honor his importance during the ceremony. 
The ring bearer can choose whether or not to wear it. The boutonnières contain a single blossom of a rosebud, Freesia flower, or miniature carnation.

For the Groom

The groom wears a boutonnière that is traditionally made of white roses, a Hawaiian wedding flower, or white orchids. It should ideally contain at least one flower from the bridal bouquet. The flower may be a rose, lily, tulip, or an orchid.
Other elements like an ivy, berries, or smaller flowers, add some contrast and color to the accessory. Mini pine cones, acorns, etc., may be added depending on the wedding theme. White flowers are the best choice, as they complement any tuxedo style and color scheme.

For Male Guests

Other than the groom and groomsmen, boutonnières can also be worn by other immediate male relatives of the bride and groom, as a symbol of honor.
These can be more simple looking compared to the ones worn by the groom. It also helps other guests distinguish them as relatives of the couple.

How to Make a Boutonnière

You can save money and make the boutonnières yourself to add a personal touch. Here are some simple tips on how to make them.

Material Required:
  • Small or medium-sized flower
  • Fern and/or Common baby's breath
  • Scissors
  • Florists tape
Instructions:
Always use fresh flowers, and be sure that you do not make them 2-3 days in advance, as the flowers will wilt. You can make them a night before the wedding. Cut the flower stems leaving only 1½ inches of it from the base of the flower bud. Then, take the florist tape and wrap it around the stem at a slight angle.
Stretch the tape as you go along, so that it sticks to itself. Continue wrapping the stem till you reach its end. Stick the fern or behind the flower and tape them firmly to the base. Make sure the arrangement is neatly done. You can use a safety pin to attach it to a suit or tuxedo.