Boutonnieres, we love to hate

🌿 Boutonnieres: Beautiful, Iconic… and Honestly, a Little Tricky

Boutonnieres are one of those timeless wedding details that look effortless in photos but can be surprisingly frustrating behind the scenes. They’re delicate, they’re charming, they elevate every suit—and yet, anyone who has ever pinned one knows the truth: these tiny floral accents can be pretty but hard to use.

🌸 The Beauty of Boutonnieres

Boutonnieres add a refined, romantic touch to any groom or groomsman’s look. They tie the floral design together, complement the bridal bouquet, and bring a cohesive, polished feel to the entire wedding party.

Why they’re beloved:

• They photograph beautifully

• They add color and texture to suits

• They honor tradition and symbolism

• They help distinguish key members of the wedding party

• They create a unified, elevated aesthetic

From classic roses to modern textural pieces, boutonnieres are small but mighty design elements.

🌬️ The Honest Truth: Boutonnieres Are Hard to Use

As gorgeous as they are, boutonnieres come with challenges that couples rarely expect until the wedding day.

🌱 They’re fragile

Boutonnieres are made from delicate blooms that bruise easily, wilt quickly, and don’t love being handled repeatedly.

📌 Pinning them is an art

Most people don’t know how to pin a boutonniere correctly. It takes practice, steady hands, and a little patience—especially when suits are fitted, fabrics are thick, or nerves are high.

🕒 They don’t last forever

Because they sit close to the body, boutonnieres are exposed to heat, movement, hugs, and photos. Even the sturdiest flowers can start to droop after a few hours.

👔 Suit fabrics can fight back

Some materials—like thick wool or slippery satin lapels—make pinning more difficult. And no one wants visible holes or crooked flowers.

💃 They get bumped… a lot

Between greeting guests, dancing, and adjusting jackets, boutonnieres take a beating throughout the day.

🌼 Why They’re Still Worth It

Even with the challenges, boutonnieres remain a meaningful and beautiful part of wedding tradition.

They:

• Highlight the groom and groomsmen

• Add personality and style

• Tie the floral story together

• Look incredible in portraits

• Honor family members and VIPs

They’re small, symbolic, and sentimental—exactly the kind of detail that makes a wedding feel complete.

🌟 Tips to Make Boutonnieres Easier

✔ Choose sturdy blooms

Ranunculus and roses are classic, but textural elements like thistle, wax flower, or greenery hold up even better.

✔ Keep them cool until photos

A chilled boutonniere is a happy boutonniere.

✔ Have your florist pin the first one

Then let the wedding planner or coordinator take over for the rest.

✔ Use two pins

One for stability, one for security. It makes a world of difference.

✔ Consider magnetic backs

A great option for delicate fabrics—just make sure no one has a pacemaker.

✔ Have a few backups

Your planner or florist will thank you later.

💐 Final Thoughts

Boutonnieres may be tiny, but they pack a visual punch. Yes, they’re delicate, finicky, and sometimes downright stubborn—but they’re also timeless, elegant, and worth the effort. With the right preparation and a little expert help, these small blooms can shine beautifully throughout your wedding day.