When Pinning on the Boutonnieres
Take a deep breath, steady your nerves, and follow these simple steps.
Whether she chooses a traditional floral arrangement or opts for something more unique, the task of pinning Boutonnieres on the groom and his guys takes a clear eye and steady hands. Moms and moms-in-law are frequently pressed into this intimate service as a way to include them in the activities of the big day, a nod toward their greater experience with pins and flowers. If moms aren’t available, you, as a bridesmaid, may be pressed into service. After all, the gal of the hour can’t take a chance of being seen before her grand entrance! Take a deep breath, steady your nerves, and follow these simple steps.
Boutonnieres with a bit of bling
A strong, sturdy stickpin, possibly decked out with a bit of bling or colored to match the maids’ gowns, is a necessity. Position the posy about four inches below the shoulder, angled slightly, on the jacket lapel. Starting at the bottom left corner of the stem, push the pin into the lapel material. Weave the pin up through the fabric and angle it firmly across the flower stem (approximately one inch) to hold the arrangement in place. Stick the pin back into the fabric on the other side of the bloom and weave it back up. You don’t want to injure the best man, after all! Double check to make sure the sharp isn’t sticking out – no sense inviting dangerous hugs!
Boutonnieres with personality
The boutonniere can reflect the theme and color of the wedding and can also say something about the groom’s interests, as in the Star Wars characters worn by the groom and each of his groomsmen at one wedding. Adding unexpected elements to the boutonniere is a fun way to make a time-honored tradition even more meaningful.
Related Article: The History of the Boutonniere
Step back and admire your handiwork, readjusting the angle and fluffing up any petals that may have become mussed in the pinning process. That’s all there is to it!
An old Chinese proverb holds that flowers leave some of their fragrance in the hand that bestows them. And thus your generous assistance is rewarded.
Images by: Hulse Photography, Christopher Todd Studios, Organic Elements Event Design, George Street Photography
