Everything You Need to Know About Groom Boutonnieres

When it comes to wedding florals, most of the attention naturally goes to the bouquet. But there’s one small detail that carries so much meaning — the groom’s boutonniere.

It may be tiny, but it’s symbolic, traditional, and one of those quiet details that pulls the entire look together.

Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a Boutonniere?

A boutonniere is a small floral arrangement worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket. Traditionally, it’s worn by the groom and select members of the wedding party.

The word “boutonniere” comes from the French term for “buttonhole flower,” because it was originally placed through the buttonhole of a jacket lapel. Today, it’s carefully pinned right over the heart.

Where Does a Boutonniere Go?

A boutonniere should always be worn on:

• The left lapel

• Positioned above the pocket

• Stem pointing downward

• Flower facing outward

✨ Pro Tip: Have your planner or florist pin it. There is a right way to secure it so it stays fresh and upright all day (and avoids the awkward droop in photos).

Who Wears a Boutonniere?

• The Groom

• Groomsmen

• Fathers of the couple

• Grandfathers

• Officiant

• Ring bearer (optional & adorable!)

The groom’s boutonniere is typically slightly more elevated or distinct from the others — whether that’s a larger bloom, a unique flower, or subtle added detail.

What About Flowers for the Girls?

Corsages

Corsages are traditionally worn by:

• Mothers of the couple

• Grandmothers

• Female officiant (optional)

They can be worn either:

• On the wrist (wrist corsage)

• Pinned on the dress near the shoulder

Wrist corsages tend to feel more modern and comfortable, especially for long wedding days.

Bridesmaids’ Bouquets

Bridesmaids typically carry smaller versions of the bridal bouquet. These don’t have to match exactly but should feel cohesive in color palette and style.

Flower Girls

Flower girls may carry:

• A mini bouquet

• A floral wand

• A flower crown

• A basket of petals

Flower crowns are especially beautiful for garden or outdoor weddings and photograph so softly.

Should Everything Match?

Your florals should coordinate — not feel copy-and-paste.

• Pull tones from the bridal bouquet

• Balance scale between boutonnieres and bouquets

• Keep texture consistent

• Make sure family florals feel cohesive but slightly distinguished

This creates a polished look in photos without feeling overly “matchy.”

Floral Etiquette Tips

✔️ The groom’s boutonniere is traditionally provided by the bride’s side.

✔️ Corsages are typically given to mothers and grandmothers as a gesture of honor.

✔️ Keep all florals refrigerated until shortly before photos.

✔️ Assign someone (planner/coordinator, or florist) to distribute and pin everything — this prevents last-minute chaos.