Wearing a corsage is a common custom on weddings. This little bouquet is a small grouping of flowers and greenery held together by a ribbon. The bride carries a bouquet and the –closest- guests wear a corsage. Despite it being a widespread tradition there are many uncertainties about the corsage. Which guests are supposed to receive a corsage? What etiquette should they adhere to when wearing it?
Tradition of the corsage
Back in the days, it was customary to wear a corsage when a man took a woman on a date. This tiny ornament had to match the woman’s outfit and gifted to her by the male. Nowadays, the wedding corsage represents the bridal bouquet; it aligns with its colors and style.
Who picks out the corsages?
According to the tradition, the man chooses both: the corsages and the bridal bouquet. However, the groom does not know what the dress will look like. Usually the bride helps to select the flowers for the wedding. Nowadays many women want to choose this without the groom: the choice is yours.
Etiquette
Do not feel obligated to wear a corsage at your wedding. If you like, you can purchase them together with the bouquet from a florist, this ensures that they match. Keep in mind that the corsage is not only a decoration and symbolic tradition, but also a practical piece at the wedding. Corsages can be very useful to recognize the closest family and friends, letting them stand out with you.
Whom amongst your guests should be wearing the corsages?
There are no strict rules about who gets to wear wedding-day-flowers. Most couples choose to honor the closest family and friends with a corsage. Think first-degree family, such as your parents, stepparents, but also grandparents and other important family members, let your bond with your individual guests guide you. It's common to provide your bridesmaids and groomsmen with a corsage when you choose to get them. Of course, you shouldn't forget the witnesses and the wedding coordinator(s). Some couples choose to give a corsage to all day guests: it is up to you, there is no wrong.
How to attach your corsage?
Contrary to whom wears the corsage there is some clear etiquette about how to wear it. Men wear a tiny bouquet on the left lapel of their jacket, with the stalk of the flowers facing downwards. Women wear the corsage on the same side. The difference: the flower stalk is facing upwards.
The corsage frequently consists of just a single flower combined with some green and held with a ribbon. Do you prefer more flowers? It is also possible to bind different flowers together. The florist attaches a pin on the corsage making it easy to wear. Some florist use magnets, these will prevent the clothes from pierced and thereby damaged. Tip from WonderWeddings: Pick a tiny arm corsage, this will prevent your stunning dress from any harm and yet enables you to let this beautiful tradition complete your look.
Will you or have you chosen to wear a corsages at the wedding? If so, what corsage have you opted for?