Unique Boutonnieres

Boutonnieres are defined by Wikipedia as “a floral decoration, worn by men, typically a single flower or bud.” The word comes from the French word for buttonhole. While worn frequently in the past, boutonnieres are now usually reserved for special occasions for which formal wear is standard, such as prom, homecomings, funerals and weddings. (Women who wear jackets on these occasions also often may wear “buttonholes”, but more typically a woman would wear a corsage.) Nowadays, a lapel pin is worn more often than flowers on business suits.

Actually, the traditional flower used for boutonnieres are carnations. However, at weddings today, we don’t see that often. Usually the flowers used as boutonniere on the groom, his groomsmen, the father of the bride and the father of the groom, as well as brothers from both sides, are flowers used throughout the whole wedding or the flower of choice, so to speak. But what we find fascinating lately is how boutonnieres have evolved into something beyond flowers, into something more creative. Many have said that more than the symbol of formality, they’ve added customized touches into their boutonnieres that makes it more personal. And on top of it, after the day, they have the option to turn it into a keepsake from the day. 

The inspirations to create comes from many, such as the personality of the person that will wear it, his hobby, his profession – it can almost come from anything. The boutonniere serves as a symbol that represents the person wearing it. How fun is that?

Isn’t it amazing how we can have so much fun with this little detail without reducing the purpose of it all? Lucky for all of us, there are now many vendors who provide customized boutonniere services in varied price ranges, depending on the complexity of the designs and the materials of choice. So, if you’re in the midst of wedding preparation, don’t forget to put customized boutonnieres on your list. It’s never too late.

Photos courtesy of axioo