“Do My Bridesmaids Really Need Flowers?”
Bouquets are a great way to make the VIP team of the celebration stand-out, but it isn’t a necessity at all.
This is especially true if you’re going a more offbeat route for the event. Of course, more traditional weddings will want to stay in tune with what’s expected, i.e. bouquets for the bridesmaids and boutonnieres for the groomsman.
If you do decide on the alternative route, that’s perfectly okay! The dress, details around the ceremony and reception, the entire event can be personalized without a bloom in sight – or left for just the bride and groom!
Of course, if cost is an issue but you still want a bouquet for the ladies, think about other choices such as paper, foam, faux or even brooch bouquets instead of fresh blooms. It’s a way to save money and add a unique appeal to the tradition!
Other Expert Answers
Brides
Do I Have to Carry a Bouquet?
Bouquets are an immediately recognized (and totally pretty) wedding tradition, but carrying a bundle of blooms isn’t a must.
In fact, the reason brides originally started carrying them centuries ago was that the perfume of the flowers masked their body odor (you know, back when bathing wasn’t a daily occurrence)… since today’s brides aren’t so concerned about masking an unpleasant smell, the bouquet’s main purpose these days is to be a beautiful – but not necessary – accessory.
You could opt to hold a single bloom, hold your pooch’s leash, or leave your hands empty so you can grab your parent’s for that important walk.
Who Else Needs Flowers?
Bouquets and boutonnieres are a great way to distinguish the VIPs in your wedding party. If you’re opting to outfit everyone with flowers, here’s what you’ll want:
- Bouquets for your bridesmaids
- A nosegay, basket of petals, or flower crown for your flower girl
- Wrist corsages, nosegays, or floral clutch clips for female family members (like the mothers and grandmothers)
- Boutonnieres for the groom, groomsmen, ring bearers, ushers, and male family members (like fathers, grandfathers, and brothers)
Again, there’s no hard-and-fast rule about this, so if you’d rather skip the blooms completely or have only a bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere, that’s totally fine!” – Brides
Martha Stewart
“Your bridesmaids are an integral part of your big day, so the flowers they will carry are important, too. Since your ‘maids will be among the most heavily photographed group of the day, you’ll want to make sure their attire look is picture-perfect—straight down to the floral accessories.” – Martha Stewart Weddings
Mon Cheri Bridals
“For the bride seeking an alternative to the bridesmaid bouquet, we rounded up a few of our favorites. Don’t get us wrong, we LOVE floral bouquets and the bride can still carry flowers! ” – Mon Cheri Bridals