At weddings in the UK, several key individuals typically wear flowers. The groom, groomsmen, fathers of the bride and groom, and grandfathers adorn boutonnieres. Mothers of the bride and groom, grandmothers, and other close female relatives wear corsages. Flower girls and page boys often wear smaller corsages, floral wristbands, or boutonnieres.
The bride traditionally carries a bouquet, bridesmaids hold smaller versions, and the maid of honour may have a distinctive bouquet. Each floral accessory compliments the overall wedding theme and honours the wearer’s role in the celebration. Discover the specifics of each floral tradition below.
Main Points
- The bride carries a bridal bouquet.
- The groom, best man, and groomsmen wear boutonnieres.
- Mothers of the bride and groom, and grandmothers wear corsages.
- Bridesmaids carry smaller bouquets, while flower girls have floral headpieces or small bouquets.
- Fathers of the bride and groom, and grandfathers wear boutonnieres.
Who traditionally wears boutonnieres at weddings in the UK?
Traditionally, boutonnieres are worn by the groom, best man, and groomsmen at weddings in the UK. Additionally, fathers of both the bride and groom, as well as grandfathers, often wear these floral accessories.
This custom not only distinguishes these key participants but also adds a touch of elegance and uniformity to the wedding attire.
Groom
Wearing a boutonniere that matches or complements the bride’s bouquet is a customary practice for the groom at UK weddings. This groom boutonniere is not merely a decorative element but also carries significant flower symbolism, connecting it to the overall theme and aesthetic of the wedding. The groom’s floral accessory often reflects the primary flowers used in the bridal bouquet, ensuring a harmonious visual representation of the couple’s unity.
In line with traditional wedding flower customs, the groom’s boutonniere is a pivotal element among wedding floral accessories. This small yet meaningful adornment serves to distinguish the groom from other male attendees. Boutonniere styles vary, ranging from classic roses to more contemporary choices such as succulents or wildflowers, each selected to suit the groom’s personality and the wedding theme.
Moreover, groomsmen boutonnieres are typically coordinated with the groom’s, maintaining a cohesive look across the wedding party. These practices are deeply embedded in UK wedding traditions, where each flower and its arrangement is chosen with care and intention. The attention to detail in the groom’s boutonniere highlights its role as a traditional wedding flower, enhancing the ceremonial significance of the occasion.
Best Man
In addition to the groom, the best man also wears a boutonniere, typically mirroring the style and floral composition of the groom. This tradition guarantees a cohesive look within the wedding party flowers, highlighting the best man’s significant role. The best man boutonniere often complements the groom’s floral accessory, featuring similar blooms and colours, which ties into the overall floral design of the wedding.
The boutonniere serves as one of the wedding day flowers that distinguish key members of the wedding party. While the groom’s boutonniere may have a slightly more elaborate design, the best man’s boutonniere is crafted to reflect the same elegance and attention to detail. This adherence to wedding flower etiquette enhances the visual harmony of the event.
Modern wedding flowers offer various options for personalizing these floral decorations. For instance, the choice of flowers may be influenced by the wedding’s colour scheme or the season. Additionally, personalized wedding flowers can incorporate meaningful elements, making the boutonnieres even more special.
It’s also worth noting that the father of the groom’s boutonniere often follows a similar pattern, ensuring that all significant figures in the wedding party are adorned with harmonious wedding flowers.
Groomsmen
Beyond the best man, all groomsmen in a UK wedding also wear boutonnieres, signifying their integral role within the wedding party. The groomsmen boutonniere serves not just as a floral accessory, but as an important element of the groomsmen’s attire, aligning seamlessly with the wedding floral themes and overall decor.
In traditional British weddings, the wedding boutonnieres worn by groomsmen are carefully selected to complement the groom’s floral accessory, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing ensemble. These floral arrangements are typically pinned to the left lapel of their suits, symbolizing unity and solidarity with the groom.
Here is a brief overview of boutonniere styles that can be considered for groomsmen:
| Style | Description | Popular Flowers |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | A simple, elegant single-flower | Rose, Carnation |
| Rustic | Natural, earthy elements | Lavender, Thistle |
| Modern | Sleek, minimalist design | Calla Lily, Orchid |
Adhering to wedding flower etiquette, the choice of groomsman boutonniere often reflects the broader wedding floral themes, enhancing the aesthetic harmony of the event. The thoughtful selection of these wedding party flowers adds a refined touch to the groomsmen’s overall appearance, making them an integral part of the celebration’s visual narrative.
Fathers of the Bride and Groom
As a cherished tradition in UK weddings, both the father of the bride and the father of the groom dons boutonnieres, symbolizing their honoured roles and familial bond to the newlyweds. These fathers’ floral accessories are not only a vital element but also a significant component in the wedding’s overall floral colour scheme, often coordinated by a skilled wedding florist.
The father of the bride boutonniere and the father of the groom boutonniere typically align with the groom’s floral accessory, creating a cohesive look among the male members of the bridal party.
Boutonniere styles can vary greatly, from classic roses and carnations to more modern and unique floral choices, always reflecting the couple’s tastes and the wedding’s theme. The floral colour scheme plays a critical role in ensuring that these boutonnieres blend seamlessly with the ceremony flower setup and the rest of the bridal party flowers.
While the focus here is on the fathers’ boutonnieres, it’s noteworthy that grandfathers, too, may wear similar floral accessories, reinforcing their special place within the family. Ultimately, the inclusion of boutonnieres for the fathers underscores their integral part in this memorable celebration.
Grandfathers
Expanding the circle of honoured family members, grandfathers of both the bride and groom are traditionally adorned with boutonnieres at UK weddings. These floral accessories serve not only as a symbol of their special status but also as a cohesive element in the overall wedding attire. By including grandfathers in this custom, families emphasize the importance of these senior family members in the joyous occasion.
In the UK, weddings often adhere to traditional customs that highlight the significance of close family ties. Grandfathers wearing boutonnieres is a reflection of respect and acknowledgement towards their role within the family. These boutonnieres are typically coordinated to match the wedding’s colour scheme and floral arrangements, ensuring a harmonious aesthetic.
As special guests, grandfathers are often dressed in formal attire, making the addition of a boutonniere a fitting complement. This small yet meaningful floral accessory enhances their formal look, distinguishing them from other guests. Incorporating grandfathers into this tradition underscores their cherished presence and the multi-generational unity celebrated at the wedding.
Ultimately, the inclusion of grandfathers in the boutonniere tradition at UK weddings exemplifies how these events honour family members, weaving them into the fabric of the ceremonial attire.
Page Boys
In UK weddings, young page boys, akin to ring bearers, are often adorned with smaller boutonnieres that complement the overall floral theme. These page boy boutonnieres are typically designed to harmonize with the wedding bouquet styles, ensuring a cohesive look throughout the ceremony. The choice of flowers often aligns with the seasonal wedding flowers, offering a touch of nature’s beauty that is appropriate for the time of year.
The flower colour scheme plays a critical role in tying together the various floral elements, from the groom’s floral accessory to the wedding ceremony flowers. Page boys, like their counterpart flower girls, contribute to the visual appeal of the event. While flower girls scatter flower girl petals and don delicate flower girl headpieces, page boys add a charming touch with their boutonnieres.
Incorporating ring bearer flowers into the page boy’s attire further enhances the unity of the wedding party’s look. These floral details extend beyond the ceremony, contributing to the reception floral decor and providing a seamless shift from the vows to the celebration. Ultimately, the inclusion of page boy boutonnieres underscores the importance of thoughtful floral planning in creating a memorable wedding experience.
Who traditionally wears corsages at weddings in the UK?
In the UK, corsages are traditionally worn by key female figures at weddings, such as the mothers of the bride and groom, as well as grandmothers.
These floral adornments can also be seen on female relatives, flower girls, and bridesmaids, highlighting their special roles in the ceremony.
The corsage serves as a symbol of honour and distinction, adding a touch of elegance to their attire.
Mothers of the Bride and Groom
The mothers of the bride and groom traditionally wear corsages to honour their pivotal roles in the wedding. These floral accessories serve as a symbol of recognition and respect for their contributions.
The mother-of-the-bride corsage and the mother-of-the-groom corsage are typically designed to complement the overall floral theme, which includes elements such as the bridesmaid bouquet, matron of honour flowers, and maid of honour flowers. These corsages can be crafted as either wrist corsages or pin-on corsages, depending on personal preference and attire.
In addition to the mothers, other key female figures may wear corsages, such as the grandmother corsage, adding a touch of floral elegance to their ensemble. While the bride and her bridal party may opt for floral headpieces or other accessories, the flower girl often carries a flower girl basket filled with petals, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere.
The choice of corsage style—whether it be a wrist corsage or a pin-on corsage—provides flexibility and can be tailored to suit the wearer’s outfit and comfort. This tradition underscores the important roles that the mothers of the bride and groom play in the wedding, ensuring they are visibly honoured on this special day.
Grandmothers
Grandmothers of both the bride and groom traditionally wear corsages as a mark of honour and recognition at weddings in the UK. This practice not only distinguishes them as important family members but also integrates them into the overall floral theme of the event. The corsage styles chosen for grandmothers often complement the bridal flower arrangement and the groom’s floral accessory, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.
In addition to corsages, grandmothers may also carry a handheld posy, a small bouquet that adds a touch of elegance and can be a practical alternative to a pin-on corsage. The selection of flowers for these arrangements is typically in harmony with the main flower arrangements used throughout the ceremony and reception flowers. This thoughtful coordination extends to the floral crowns worn by the bridal party, creating a unified and visually pleasing floral display.
The flower arrangements for grandmothers are carefully designed to reflect their unique personalities and to honour their role within the family. This attention to detail not only enhances the visual appeal of the wedding but also underscores the importance of familial bonds on such a special day.
Female Relatives
Beyond grandmothers, close female relatives such as aunts and sisters frequently wear corsages at weddings in the UK to signify their special connection to the couple. These floral adornments not only enhance their attire but also serve as a visual marker of their familial importance and support on this significant day.
Traditionally, the mothers of the bride and groom are given corsages, but extending this gesture to other close female relatives, such as aunts and sisters, is a common practice. This inclusion guarantees that these important family members feel recognized and valued. The choice of flowers and the design of the corsage can also be personalized to reflect the wearer’s style or the wedding’s theme, adding a unique touch to the event.
Providing corsages to close female relatives is a thoughtful way to honour their roles and contributions to the family. It fosters a sense of unity and celebration, reinforcing the bonds that weddings are meant to strengthen.
| Female Relative | Typical Corsage Flower | Reason for Wearing |
|---|---|---|
| Aunt | Roses | Signify close connection |
| Sister | Lilies | Honor familial bond |
| Mother | Orchids | Recognize importance |
This tradition underscores the importance of family in UK weddings, making the event more inclusive and memorable for everyone involved.
Flower Girls
Fascinatingly, flower girls in UK weddings sometimes wear smaller corsages or floral wristbands to complement their youthful and charming role in the ceremony. These floral accessories are carefully chosen to match the overall colour scheme and theme of the wedding, adding a delicate touch to the flower girls’ attire.
Typically, the flowers used in these corsages are smaller and more understated than those worn by adult participants, ensuring that the flower girls’ natural innocence and playfulness are highlighted.
The tradition of having flower girls in weddings dates back centuries, symbolizing purity and the blossoming of new life. In the UK, this charming custom is still widely embraced, with flower girls often leading the bridal procession and scattering petals along the aisle.
Their presence is not just ceremonial but also adds an element of whimsy and joy to the event.
Bridesmaids
Continuing the floral theme, bridesmaids in UK weddings may also wear corsages, although it is more essential for them to carry bouquets. Traditionally, bouquets are preferred as they complement the bride’s floral arrangements and contribute to the visual cohesion of the wedding party. Bouquets can range from simple posies to elaborate arrangements, often reflecting the overall colour scheme and style of the wedding.
However, the use of corsages for bridesmaids is gaining popularity, especially in more contemporary or casual wedding settings. A corsage, typically worn on the wrist or pinned to a dress, can offer a lighter, less cumbersome alternative to holding a bouquet. This can be particularly advantageous during the reception and other activities where bridesmaids need freedom of movement.
The choice between bouquets and corsages often comes down to personal preference, wedding theme, and practicality. Some brides opt for a combination, where bridesmaids carry bouquets during the ceremony and then switch to corsages for the reception. This dual approach allows for both traditional aesthetics and modern convenience.
Regardless of the choice, the floral arrangements remain an integral element in enhancing the elegance and unity of the bridal party.
Close Female Friends
In addition to bridesmaids, close female friends of the bride and groom often wear corsages at weddings in the UK, signifying their special role in the celebration. These women, who may not have an official title within the bridal party, are nonetheless recognized for their importance in the couple’s lives. The corsage serves as a visual token of appreciation and acknowledgement for their support and friendship.
Traditionally, the corsage is a small arrangement of flowers, typically worn on the wrist or pinned to the dress. The selection of flowers and the design often correlate with the wedding’s colour scheme and overall floral arrangements, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic. This thoughtful detail adds a touch of elegance and continuity to the wedding attire, highlighting the close connections between the couple and their friends.
What floral arrangements do the mothers of the wedding couple wear?
Mothers of the wedding couple in the UK often wear floral arrangements that add an elegant touch to their attire. Common choices include wrist corsages, which are convenient and stylish, pin-on corsages that can be attached to clothing, and handheld posies that provide a more traditional option.
Each of these arrangements offers a unique way to incorporate flowers into the wedding ensemble, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the event.
Wrist Corsage
A wrist corsage, elegantly fastened with a ribbon or elastic band, is a traditional floral arrangement worn by the mothers of the wedding couple. This accessory not only adds a touch of grace but also signifies their special roles in the ceremony. Typically, the wrist corsage consists of small, delicate flowers that complement the overall wedding theme and the attire of the wearer. Common floral choices include roses, orchids, and lilies, often accompanied by greenery and baby’s breath to enhance their beauty.
The wrist corsage offers a practical and stylish alternative to other floral arrangements, allowing the mothers to move freely and comfortably throughout the day. Its design ensures that it remains securely in place, reducing the worry of readjustment. The choice of flowers and colours can be personalized to reflect the preferences of the mothers or to align with the wedding’s colour scheme.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the wrist corsage serves as a cherished keepsake, often preserved as a memento of a joyous occasion. This thoughtful detail underscores the importance of the mothers in the wedding, celebrating their presence and contribution to the special day.
Pin-on Corsage
Often chosen for its elegance and tradition, the pin-on corsage is a floral arrangement affixed to the dress or outfit, typically on the left side near the shoulder. This form of corsage is a popular choice for the mothers of the wedding couple, offering a sophisticated and classic touch to their attire. The pin-on corsage is versatile, allowing for a variety of flower types and colours to be used, guaranteeing it complements the overall wedding theme and the individual’s outfit.
In the UK, it is customary for the mothers of both the bride and the groom to wear pin-on corsages, signifying their special roles in the wedding. These corsages often feature flowers that match the bridal bouquet or the groom’s boutonniere, creating a cohesive floral theme. Common choices include roses, lilies, and orchids, which are selected for their beauty and symbolic meanings.
The pin-on corsage not only enhances the elegance of the mothers’ outfits but also serves as a cherished keepsake from the wedding day. Its traditional placement on the left shoulder ensures it is prominently displayed, adding a touch of floral sophistication to the celebration.
Handheld Posy
While pin-on corsages are a traditional choice, another elegant option for the mothers of the wedding couple is the handheld posy. This small bouquet can be carried in hand, offering a sophisticated and charming alternative to the more commonly seen wrist or pin-on corsages. Although less common, the handheld posy provides a unique way for mothers to carry flowers that complement the wedding’s colour scheme and floral arrangements without being overly intrusive.
The handheld posy often consists of a small, carefully arranged selection of flowers, designed to match the overall aesthetic of the wedding. Here are three reasons why a handheld posy might be an excellent choice:
- Elegance and Sophistication: The handheld posy exudes a timeless elegance, adding a touch of sophistication to the mother’s attire. It can be matched with the wedding theme or personal preferences, making it a versatile choice.
- Comfort and Practicality: Unlike pin-on corsages which might cause discomfort or damage delicate fabrics, handheld posies are easy to carry and can be set down when needed, offering greater comfort and practicality.
- Personal Expression: A handheld posy allows for more personalized floral arrangements, reflecting the mothers’ tastes and adding a unique touch to their overall look.
Do flower girls and page boys wear or carry flowers?
In the context of UK weddings, flower girls traditionally carry small bouquets or baskets of petals to scatter along the aisle, often complementing the bridal party’s floral theme.
Page boys, on the other hand, may not carry flowers but can wear boutonnières or floral accessories that align with the wedding’s colour scheme.
These floral elements serve to enhance the overall aesthetic and unity of the wedding party’s attire.
Flower Girls
Flower girls traditionally carry baskets of petals, which they sprinkle down the aisle, adding a touch of whimsy and charm to the ceremony. Additionally, they may also wear floral crowns or small bouquets to complement their attire.
Page boys, on the other hand, typically do not carry flowers but may wear boutonnières that coordinate with the wedding party’s floral arrangements.
Carry
Traditionally, flower girls carry small baskets filled with flower petals, which they scatter along the aisle preceding the bride’s entrance. This charming custom adds a touch of innocence and beauty to the wedding ceremony.
Key aspects include:
- Basket Type: Often wicker or decorated to match the wedding theme.
- Petal Colors: Typically chosen to complement the bridal bouquet.
- Petal Scattering: Symbolizes good fortune and fertility.
Wear
Although flower girls often carry baskets of petals, they also frequently wear floral headpieces, such as crowns or clips adorned with blooms. These charming accessories add to the overall aesthetic of the wedding and complement the flower girl’s attire.
Floral headpieces can range from simple designs to more elaborate arrangements, enhancing the visual harmony of the bridal party and the ceremony.
Page Boys
Page boys at UK weddings traditionally do not carry flowers. Instead, they often wear small floral accessories such as boutonnieres. These boutonnieres typically match the bridal party’s floral arrangements, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.
Unlike flower girls, who may carry flower baskets, page boys usually have their hands free, often tasked with carrying rings or other ceremonial items.
Wear
In the UK, page boys typically wear boutonnieres, small floral arrangements pinned to their jackets, reflecting the attire of the groom and groomsmen. This floral accessory adds a touch of elegance and coherence to the wedding party’s overall look.
Page boys’ boutonnieres usually feature:
- Matching flowers with the bridal bouquet.
- Seasonal blooms are appropriate for the time of year.
- Coordinating colours with the wedding theme.
Carry
While page boys often wear boutonnieres, they may also carry small decorative elements, such as pillows or boxes adorned with flowers or ribbons, especially when tasked with bearing the wedding rings.
These items add a touch of elegance and significance to their role, complementing the overall aesthetic of the wedding ceremony and ensuring a cohesive, charming presentation.
UK wedding customs: who typically wear flowers at ceremonies?
At UK weddings, various members of the bridal party and close family traditionally wear specific floral arrangements to signify their roles and importance in the ceremony. These floral accessories are more than mere decorations; they serve as identifiers and add a touch of elegance to the occasion.
Foremost among these is the bride, who carries a meticulously arranged bridal bouquet. This bouquet often complements the wedding theme and the bride’s attire. The groom, on the other hand, dons a boutonniere, a small floral arrangement pinned to his lapel, symbolizing his role as the groom.
Other key members of the bridal party also wear flowers:
Bridesmaids and Maid/Matron of Honor:
Bridesmaids carry smaller bouquets that align with the bridal bouquet. The Maid or Matron of Honor may have a more distinctive bouquet or an additional floral accessory to denote her special status.
Groomsmen and Best Man:
Groomsmen, like the groom, wear boutonnieres. The Best Man’s boutonniere might be slightly different to highlight his significant role.
Flower Girls and Page Boys:
Flower Girls typically wear floral headpieces or carry small bouquets or baskets filled with flower petals, adding an adorable touch to the ceremony. Page Boys usually wear boutonnieres and might carry decorative items such as ring pillows.
Parents and grandparents also partake in this tradition. Mothers of the bride and groom wear corsages, either on their wrists or pinned to their attire, while fathers wear boutonnieres. Grandparents follow similar customs, with grandmothers donning corsages and grandfathers wearing boutonnieres.
Conclusion
In UK weddings, boutonnieres are traditionally worn by the groom, groomsmen, fathers, and grandfathers.
Corsages are commonly worn by mothers, grandmothers, and sometimes female attendants.
Mothers of the wedding couple typically wear elaborate corsages.
Flower girls often carry floral baskets or wear flower crowns, while page boys may have small boutonnieres.
These customs highlight the significance of flowers in symbolising roles and relationships within the wedding ceremony, underscoring their enduring cultural importance.