How to Make Boutonniere for Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide
Weddings are a special occasion filled with love and joy. Every detail matters, including the accessories worn by the groom and his groomsmen. One such accessory is the boutonniere, a small flower arrangement worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo. Making your own boutonnieres can be a fun and cost-effective way to add a personal touch to your wedding. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make boutonnieres for a wedding.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the process, let's gather all the materials you'll need:
- Flowers of your choice
- Greenery, such as leaves or ferns
- Floral tape
- Floral wire
- Wire cutters
- Boutonniere pins
- Ribbon or twine (optional)
Step 1: Choose Your Flowers
The first step in making a boutonniere is selecting the flowers. Consider the color scheme and theme of your wedding when choosing the flowers. Roses, carnations, and orchids are popular choices for boutonnieres. Pick flowers that are fresh and in good condition.
Step 2: Prepare the Greenery
Next, prepare the greenery that will complement the flowers. Cut the leaves or ferns into small pieces, around 2-3 inches in length. Remove any excess foliage from the stems.
Step 3: Trim the Flowers
Trim the stems of the flowers to your desired length. It is recommended to leave around 3-4 inches of stem for easier handling.
Step 4: Create a Base with Floral Tape
To create a base for your boutonniere, take a piece of floral wire and fold it in half. Place the wire against the stem of the flower, with the folded end at the bottom. Secure the wire to the stem using floral tape. Wrap the tape tightly around the stem, covering the wire and extending a few inches down.
Step 5: Add Greenery
Now it's time to add the greenery. Take a piece of greenery and place it against the stem of the flower, just below the floral tape. Secure it in place by wrapping floral tape tightly around the stem and greenery.
Step 6: Repeat with More Flowers and Greenery
Continue adding more flowers and greenery, alternating between them, until you achieve the desired size and shape for your boutonniere. Make sure to secure each stem with floral tape as you go.
Step 7: Wrap the Stems
Once you are satisfied with the arrangement, wrap the stems of the boutonniere with floral tape. Start at the base and work your way down, covering all the stems. This will create a clean and polished look.
Step 8: Finish with Ribbon or Twine (Optional)
If you want to add an extra touch to your boutonniere, you can finish it off with a ribbon or twine. Take a small piece of ribbon or twine and tie it around the stems, just below the floral tape. You can leave the ends long for a more rustic look or trim them for a neater finish.
Step 9: Trim Excess Stems
Before attaching the boutonniere to the lapel, make sure to trim any excess stems. Use wire cutters to cut the stems to your desired length. Be careful not to cut the floral tape or ribbon/twine.
Step 10: Attach the Boutonniere
Finally, attach the boutonniere to the lapel using a boutonniere pin. Insert the pin through the back of the lapel and secure it in place. Adjust the positioning of the boutonniere as needed.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make Boutonniere for Wedding
1. Can I use any type of flower for a boutonniere?
Yes, you can use any type of flower for a boutonniere. However, it's important to choose flowers that are sturdy and can withstand being worn throughout the day. Roses, carnations, and orchids are popular choices.
2. How long will a homemade boutonniere last?
A homemade boutonniere can last for several hours if kept in water or a floral tube. However, it's best to make the boutonnieres on the day of the wedding to ensure freshness.
3. Can I make boutonnieres in advance?
It is possible to make boutonnieres in advance, but it's recommended to do so no more than a day before the wedding. Store them in a cool, dark place and keep them hydrated until they are needed.
4. Do I need to use floral wire?
Using floral wire helps provide structure and support to the boutonniere. It makes it easier to handle and ensures that the flowers stay in place. However, if you prefer not to use wire, you can skip this step.
5. Can I personalize the boutonnieres?
Absolutely! You can personalize the boutonnieres by adding small charms, decorative pins, or even incorporating meaningful elements, such as feathers or ribbons. Get creative and make them unique to your wedding.
6. Are boutonnieres only for the groom and groomsmen?
No, boutonnieres can be worn by other important people at the wedding, such as the fathers of the bride and groom, grandfathers, or close family members. It's a nice way to honor and include them in the celebration.