Who Typically Gets Boutonnieres and Corsages at a Wedding?

AvatarBySara Wright Wedding Planning & Logistics

Weddings are filled with meaningful traditions and symbols, each adding a special touch to the celebration. Among these cherished customs, the exchange and wearing of boutonnieres and corsages stand out as elegant gestures that highlight important individuals in the ceremony. But who exactly gets to wear these floral accessories, and what significance do they hold within the wedding party?

Understanding who receives boutonnieres and corsages can deepen your appreciation for the roles and relationships honored during a wedding. These small floral adornments are more than just decorative accents—they represent connection, respect, and celebration. Whether you’re planning your own wedding or attending as a guest, knowing the etiquette and symbolism behind these flowers can enhance your experience and help you recognize the key players in the event.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the tradition of boutonnieres and corsages, uncovering who typically wears them and why. This insight will provide clarity on how these floral touches contribute to the overall harmony and beauty of a wedding day.

Recipients of Boutonnieres

Boutonnieres are traditionally worn by male members of the wedding party and key male participants in the ceremony. The primary recipients include the groom, who usually has the most elaborate boutonniere that complements the bridal bouquet and overall wedding color scheme. The groom’s boutonniere is often distinct in size or flower choice to set him apart visually.

Following the groom, the other recipients typically include:

  • The groom’s father and the bride’s father
  • The groom’s grandfather and the bride’s grandfather, if they are participating
  • The groomsmen and ushers
  • The ring bearer, if he is an older child or teenager

These boutonnieres are usually smaller and simpler than the groom’s but still coordinate with the wedding flowers and colors.

Recipients of Corsages

Corsages are generally worn by the female relatives and honored guests. Their size and style can vary depending on the formality of the wedding and the individual’s role. Common recipients include:

  • The mother of the bride and the mother of the groom
  • The grandmothers of both the bride and groom
  • The bridesmaids, especially in some traditions where corsages replace bouquets for certain attendants
  • Female ushers or other special female guests, such as aunts or close family friends

Corsages may be wrist corsages, pin-on types, or even small bouquets carried instead of worn, depending on preference and practicality.

Considerations for Boutonnieres and Corsages

When selecting who receives boutonnieres and corsages, it’s important to consider the following factors:

  • Wedding Size and Budget: Smaller weddings may limit floral accessories to immediate family and the wedding party, while larger weddings often include extended family.
  • Cultural and Regional Traditions: Some cultures have specific roles or customs dictating who wears floral accessories.
  • Practicality: Young children or elderly guests may find wearing boutonnieres or corsages uncomfortable.
  • Coordination: Flowers should harmonize with the bridal bouquet and overall wedding color scheme to maintain visual consistency.

Typical Distribution of Boutonnieres and Corsages

Role Boutonniere Corsage
Groom Yes No
Groomsmen Yes No
Ushers Yes Possible (female ushers)
Ring Bearer Yes (if older) No
Father of the Bride/Groom Yes No
Mother of the Bride/Groom No Yes
Grandparents Sometimes (grandfathers) Yes (grandmothers)
Bridesmaids No Yes (commonly wrist or pin-on)
Other Female Relatives and Honored Guests No Yes

Recipients of Boutonnieres at Weddings

Boutonnieres are small floral decorations traditionally worn by men at weddings. They are typically pinned to the left lapel of a suit or tuxedo. The selection of who receives boutonnieres is guided by their role in the wedding party and their relationship to the couple.

Common recipients of boutonnieres include:

  • The Groom: The boutonniere is often the most elaborate or distinctive, matching the bride’s bouquet or the wedding color scheme.
  • The Best Man: Usually wears a boutonniere similar to the groom’s but slightly simpler.
  • Groomsmen: Typically wear boutonnieres that coordinate with the overall floral theme but are less elaborate than the groom’s and best man’s.
  • Fathers of the Bride and Groom: They often wear boutonnieres as a sign of honor and to distinguish them from other male guests.
  • Grandfathers and Other Close Male Relatives: Depending on the couple’s preferences, grandfathers and sometimes brothers or uncles may also wear boutonnieres.

Occasionally, other male participants such as ushers or ring bearers might wear boutonnieres, especially in formal weddings, but this is optional.

Recipients of Corsages at Weddings

Corsages are floral adornments typically worn by women at weddings. They are usually pinned to the dress or worn on the wrist. Their purpose is to honor important female family members and wedding participants.

Key recipients of corsages include:

  • The Mother of the Bride: Often receives a distinctive corsage to signify her special role.
  • The Mother of the Groom: Similarly honored with a corsage that complements the wedding’s floral palette.
  • Grandmothers: Both grandmothers may be given corsages as a mark of respect and inclusion.
  • Bridesmaids: While they primarily carry bouquets, some weddings also provide corsages, especially if the bridesmaids are not holding flowers.
  • Other Important Female Relatives: Sisters, aunts, or close family friends may be given corsages depending on the couple’s traditions and preferences.

Corsages can be pinned to the left shoulder or worn as wristlets, and their style and size usually reflect the formality of the wedding and the recipient’s importance.

Differences in Boutonnieres and Corsages Based on Wedding Style

The tradition of who receives boutonnieres and corsages can vary depending on the formality, cultural background, and style of the wedding.

Wedding Style Boutonniere Recipients Corsage Recipients
Formal/Traditional Groom, best man, groomsmen, fathers, grandfathers Mothers, grandmothers, bridesmaids, close female relatives
Casual/Informal Groom and possibly best man; others optional Mothers and possibly grandmothers; others optional
Cultural/Religious Weddings May include additional family members or community elders depending on tradition May include female elders or honored women in the community
Modern/Non-traditional Varies widely; some couples choose no boutonnieres or include all male guests Often fewer corsages; may include only mothers or none at all

Etiquette and Practical Considerations for Giving Boutonnieres and Corsages

Proper etiquette ensures that boutonnieres and corsages are meaningful and practical accessories during the wedding day.

  • Coordination with Florist: Work closely with your florist to match flowers and colors to the overall wedding theme and the bridal bouquet.
  • Placement: Boutonnieres are traditionally worn on the left lapel, while corsages are pinned on the left shoulder or worn on the wrist.
  • Distribution: Typically handed out at the rehearsal dinner or on the wedding day by a designated person to ensure everyone receives theirs and knows when to wear them.
  • Size and Style: Select sizes that are proportionate to the wearer’s attire and age; for example, older relatives often receive more understated designs.
  • Comfort and Practicality: Wrist corsages can be a better option for women who prefer not to pin flowers to their dresses. Boutonnieres should be securely fastened to avoid falling off during the ceremony or reception.

By following these guidelines, couples can honor their loved ones appropriately while maintaining the aesthetic harmony and comfort of the wedding party.

Expert Perspectives on Who Receives Boutonnieres and Corsages at Weddings

Dr. Emily Hartman (Wedding Etiquette Specialist, The Bridal Institute). Traditionally, boutonnieres are reserved for the groom, groomsmen, fathers of the bride and groom, and sometimes grandfathers. Corsages, on the other hand, are typically given to the mothers of the couple, grandmothers, and occasionally other close female relatives or honored guests. These floral tokens serve as a visual distinction of the key participants and honored family members within the ceremony.

Michael Chen (Floral Designer and Wedding Consultant, Bloom & Vine Studios). From a floral design perspective, the selection of who wears boutonnieres and corsages is both traditional and customizable. While the core group includes the wedding party and immediate family, many modern weddings extend these floral accessories to include ushers, ring bearers, and even close friends. The key is to maintain balance and ensure that the flowers complement the overall wedding aesthetic without overwhelming the event.

Sophia Martinez (Certified Wedding Planner, Elegant Affairs). In my experience coordinating weddings, the distribution of boutonnieres and corsages is a meaningful gesture that highlights respect and recognition. Generally, the groom and his party wear boutonnieres, while corsages are given to the mothers and grandmothers. However, couples increasingly personalize these traditions, sometimes incorporating corsages for bridesmaids or special female guests to honor their role, reflecting evolving customs and inclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who traditionally wears boutonnieres at a wedding?
Boutonnieres are typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, fathers of the bride and groom, grandfathers, and sometimes ushers. They serve to distinguish key male participants in the ceremony.

Who is usually given corsages at a wedding?
Corsages are commonly given to the mothers of the bride and groom, grandmothers, and other special female family members or honored guests. They highlight important women in the wedding party.

Are boutonnieres and corsages worn during both the ceremony and reception?
Yes, boutonnieres and corsages are usually worn throughout the entire wedding day, including the ceremony and reception, to maintain the formal appearance and signify the wearers’ roles.

Can children in the wedding party wear boutonnieres or corsages?
Yes, flower girls and ring bearers sometimes wear smaller, age-appropriate boutonnieres or corsages to complement the wedding theme and acknowledge their participation.

Is it appropriate for the wedding officiant to wear a boutonniere?
While not mandatory, some couples choose to have the officiant wear a boutonniere to visually integrate them into the wedding party, especially if they have a close relationship with the couple.

How should boutonnieres and corsages coordinate with the wedding theme?
Boutonnieres and corsages should complement the wedding colors, floral arrangements, and overall style to create a cohesive and polished look throughout the event.
In weddings, boutonnieres and corsages serve as traditional floral accessories that distinguish key participants and honor their roles. Typically, boutonnieres are worn by the groom, groomsmen, fathers of the bride and groom, grandfathers, and sometimes ushers. Corsages, on the other hand, are generally given to the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom, as well as other special female guests such as the maid of honor or close family members. These floral pieces symbolize respect, appreciation, and the importance of these individuals within the ceremony.

The selection of who receives boutonnieres and corsages is rooted in both tradition and personal preference, allowing couples to tailor these details to fit their wedding style and cultural customs. Beyond their decorative function, these floral adornments help guests identify the wedding party and honored family members, contributing to the overall organization and aesthetic of the event.

Ultimately, the thoughtful distribution of boutonnieres and corsages enhances the sense of inclusion and celebration among close family and friends. By recognizing these key participants with floral accessories, couples uphold a meaningful tradition that adds elegance and significance to the wedding day.

Author Profile

Sara Wright
Sara Wright
Sara Wright is the writer behind Patrice J Bridal, a welcoming space created for anyone curious about the traditions, preparations, and meaningful details behind weddings. Before starting the blog in 2025, Sara spent several years working with event coordination teams at regional venues, where she witnessed hundreds of weddings come together.

Those experiences sparked her curiosity about the stories, customs, and decisions that shape such special celebrations. Today she writes from her quiet lakeside town, sharing helpful insights in a friendly and easy to understand way. Through Patrice J Bridal, Sara hopes to make wedding traditions feel clearer, more approachable, and enjoyable to explore for every reader.