Who Should Wear a Boutonniere at a Wedding?  

 A boutonniere is a small yet impactful floral arrangement worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo. But who exactly should wear a boutonniere at a wedding? That part can get confusing! Although deciding who should wear a boutonniere at a wedding is entirely up to the couple, here is a general list of who gets one at a traditional wedding ceremony.   

Who Should Wear a Boutonniere at a Wedding?

1. The Groom

This one is quite easy! The groom — or a bride who has chosen to wear a suit instead of a gown— is the central figure who should proudly sport a boutonniere. Typically, the boutonniere worn by the groom matches or complements the bridal bouquet, creating a visual connection between the couple. Whether a single elegant bloom or a mini bouquet, a groom will almost always wear a boutonniere in a wedding ceremony.   

 

2. Groomsmen

Groomsmen and male attendants play a significant part in the wedding festivities, and adorning them with boutonnieres is a customary practice. The boutonnieres worn by the groomsmen often echo the design of the groom’s boutonniere but are typically simpler or more subtle. Your florist should know precisely what to do when it comes to designing groomsmen boutonnieres vs. the groom’s boutonniere.   

3. Parents and Grandparents

Incorporating boutonnieres for the parents and grandparents is a thoughtful gesture acknowledging their support and love. The fathers of the couple, as well as grandfathers, can proudly wear boutonnieres that reflect the color palette or theme of the wedding. This touch of appreciation and respect adds a heartwarming element to the occasion and makes your family members feel more included in the ceremony.   

 

4. Special Guests and Close Friends

While not a strict rule, some couples choose to extend the tradition of boutonnieres to include special guests and close friends who hold significant roles in their lives. This can include mentors, godparents, or close family friends who didn’t quite make the bridal party. In a sense, these boutonnieres say, ‘Hey! Thank you for being an important part of our lives; we want you to know what you mean to us during our big day.’  

5. Ring Bearers

Nothing is cuter than a kid with a boutonniere! It is common for young ring bearers to wear boutonnieres that match the theme and color scheme of the wedding. These can be smaller and more whimsical arrangements. Ensure your florist knows your ring bearers’ age so they can be sized accordingly.   

 

6. Ushers and Officiants

If there are ushers assisting with seating guests or an officiant leading the ceremony, a boutonniere can be a fitting accessory to signify their roles. These simple statement pieces can help tie the entire ceremonial look together.   

  

Ultimately, the choice of who wears boutonnieres at a wedding depends on the couple’s preferences, and each couple can make it uniquely their own! Whether you want to keep it simple with just the groom and groomsmen or include the entire list, there is no wrong answer!