Answering All Your Wedding Corsage Questions
Luxury wedding flowers are more than just eye-catching decor pieces. Artful arrangements tell your story while also honoring those cherished loved ones in attendance. The bride and bridesmaids will carry bouquets, and the groom and groomsmen will wear boutonnieres, but there are other guests you may want to make feel extra special on your big day. One of the most thoughtful ways to honor these important people is by presenting them with corsages.
From pinning styles to design ideas, there are plenty of details to think about when creating corsages. Even after some research, you might still feel unsure about a few things. But don’t worry—this ultimate guide will clear up any confusion. The only thing left for you to do is hire a florist with a decade of expertise in bespoke floral design.
What is a Wedding Corsage?
A wedding corsage is a small floral arrangement used to honor special guests at the wedding. Whether worn on the wrist or pinned to the chest, it adds a meaningful touch to their attire. Corsages are designed to match the wedding’s theme and color palette, making your loved ones feel like an important and integral part of your big day.
Who Traditionally Wears Corsages?
Corsages are typically worn by important women such as mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, or other special women in your life. Traditionally, both the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom are given a wedding corsage as a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their role in your life and on your wedding day.
Corsage Style Options
There are two main types of corsages: wrist corsages and pin-on corsages. There’s no definitive right or wrong choice, as each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. To help you decide which is best for your loved ones, here are the key pros and cons of each.
1. Wrist Corsages
Worn on the wrist and typically secured with a ribbon or elastic band, wrist corsages are durable and convenient to wear. They’re easy to slip on and off, making them a great choice for anyone who prefers not to pin anything to their outfit and wants a durable option that won’t snag on clothing.
2. Pin-On Corsages
Pin-on corsages are traditionally worn on the left chest and are ideal for those wearing suits or thicker fabrics. Like boutonnieres, they offer a traditional look but can be a bit trickier to secure properly onto clothing.
Tips for Designing Wedding Corsages
Designing a wedding corsage requires a lot of thought. This can leave couples full of questions about colors, specific blooms, and more. To help clear up any confusion, here are some tips for creating wedding corsages. By following these tips, you'll ensure that the corsages are equally stunning and comfortable.
1. Choose Flowers That Coordinate with the Wedding Theme
Although these guests aren’t part of the wedding party, many couples wonder if their corsages should match the wedding theme. While this is a valid question, it’s generally standard practice for corsages to coordinate with the rest of your floral arrangements. This means using similar blooms and color palettes that are reflected in your wedding decor.
2. Choose Durable Flowers
Since corsages are worn for several hours, choose durable blooms that won’t wilt easily. Succulents or hardy flowers work well for longer events or outdoor weddings. Opt for flowers that are durable and can withstand being worn for several hours without wilting. Roses, orchids, carnations, and succulents are popular, long-lasting choices.
3. Consider Comfortability
Since corsages are worn throughout the entire event, it's important to think beyond just aesthetics and durability. You also want to prioritize comfortability when designing your corsages. This means selecting flowers that are soft and non-irritating and choosing a fastening option that suits the wearer's preferences.
4. Choose a Lightweight and Small Corsage Design
Given the delicate nature of corsages, opting for large, heavy flowers isn’t the best choice. Instead, go for small, lightweight blooms that are durable and won’t wilt or droop throughout the event.
5. Consider the Recipient’s Outfit
When designing the corsage, take your loved one's outfit into consideration. While it's important for the blooms to match your wedding theme, they should also complement the recipient’s attire. Neutral tones often work best for this reason. The outfit can also help determine whether a pin-on or wrist corsage is the better option. If possible, request fabric swatches from the wearer’s outfit to ensure better coordination.
When to Order Wedding Corsages?
In your initial meetings with florists, you'll discuss the arrangements you’ll need, including corsages. It's important to include these in your floral order. So, early in the wedding planning process, talk with your partner about which key loved ones you want to honor with these special arrangements.
When Should You Present and Gift Corsages?
Corsages are a thoughtful and meaningful way to honor special guests on your wedding day. Traditionally, they are given on the day itself, allowing the recipients to wear them throughout the event. You can present them privately while getting ready, sharing your appreciation and love directly. Alternatively, you could give them before the ceremony begins.
Whether it's a grand decor piece like the ceremony backdrop or a small detail like a corsage, every element requires a skilled floral team with years of expertise in bespoke design. Partnering with florists who craft thoughtfully designed arrangements tailored to your vision is essential for perfecting every aspect of your wedding. If you're seeking a trusted florist in the San Francisco Bay Area, look no further than Flowers Valley.
Ready to bring your floral dreams to life? Contact Flowers Valley by filling out this form. They’ll combine your inspiration with years of expertise to create bespoke florals with a refined touch. Their team will provide a personalized floral experience crafted with care where every arrangement is as unique as your love story.
