Archive for the ‘grooms’ Category

Boutonnieres and Corsages–Who get’s them?

Friday, July 16th, 2010

Most wedding flower decisions are pretty straight forward–a bouquet for the bride and her attendants, flowers for the ceremony, centerpieces on the tables, but personal flowers such as boutonnieres and corsages tend to be more of a personal choice.

Every now and again I’ll come across a couple who opts to skip boutonnieres for the groom and groomsmen (usually due to somewhat casual attire) and I’ve even had moms decide to go without flowers on occasion, but here are a few guidelines to help you decide who’s in on the personal flower list.

Boutonnieres should be considered for the groom, groomsmen, fathers, grandfathers, ushers and ring bearers as well as your officiant if you are not having a religious ceremony. 

Likewise, corsages are traditionally given to mothers & grandmothers, although I often suggest small clutch bouquets for moms–I think they are particularly nice for pictures!  

I would add to the lists above that you should include any siblings that aren’t in the wedding party and their spouses, readers, singers and other important family members including step-parents.

Think of it as a way of acknowledging people close to you on a very special day.  Include as many people as possible and decide for yourself who’s on your list.  Every family is different so ultimately you need to choose what makes the most sense for your families.

Above:  Thistle & lavender boutonniere (left) and corsage with lisianthus buds tied with raffia from Kate & Alex’s wedding.

Above:  White dendrobium orchids, spray roses, seeded eucalyptus & cedar make up these vintage-inspired winter wedding corsage & boutonniere.

Above:  An array of calla and spray rose boutonnieres with hypericum berries and myrtle.

Grooms Do

Monday, December 14th, 2009

As the groom it can sometimes be hard to figure out how to fit in to the whole planning gig.  Some grooms are more interested than others of course, so I don’t want to generalize, but it is commonly assumed that the bride will be taking the lead in planning.  I think finding ways to express your personality & style as a couple is essential to modern-day wedding planning.  As an expression of two people joining their lives together the masculine touch is as important as the bride’s vision. 

Here are a few suggestions for grooms:

Arrange for an extra little vase of flowers or other small gift to be delivered to the bride’s suite before the ceremony with a note expressing your excitement about the day ahead.  After all of her dedication to planning the details it will be so nice to have something surprise her before the wedding! 

Be willing to step outside of your comfort zone if it is appropriate for your wedding day.  It is one thing to opt for khakis & cons for a mid-summer ceremony in the park with a casual reception, however if you have booked a formal venue with perhaps a religious ceremony and a plated four-course meal it isn’t unreasonable to don a tux!

Consider this an opportunity to invest in a tailored suit that will fit you perfectly and last for years.  It may cost as much as her wedding gown (or it may cost half as much!), but you can wear it multiple times and let’s face it, you could probably use a great suit!

Do have a say-so in your own attire as well as your groomsmen.  Your bride may have an ideal wedding look for you or she might like your input to determine the formality of the attire.  Don’t agree to a tuxedo or a pink polka-dot tie that you hate if you feel it seems totally out of place for your style or the vibe you have in mind.

Express an interest in the wedding planning and do your best to make the day about your taste and style as well as your partner’s.  It is great to get involved in menu selection, music and photography, but you may find that you are interested in linens, invitations and ceremony decor as well. 

Find ways to help get things crossed off the “to do” list in the weeks and months before the wedding.  Tackle as many projects as you can and encourage times for you both to take a break from wedding talk.

Grooms, this time between your engagement and the big day is full of much to do and plan.  Good luck to you in your planning process!  Cheers, to what will be one of the most special days of your lives!

Planning Tips for Couples

Thursday, November 19th, 2009

Planning a wedding can be a big job.  For some it is just a matter of pulling together vendors to acheive a look that you’ve been dreaming of for years, but for others it can be a daunting task with endless options and questions.  Oftentimes the bride is in the driver’s seat in regards to planning and the groom will step in when asked for input, but I think it is essential for both parties to be involved to some degree.  A quick tip:  If you ask for your partner’s opinion you just may get it!  Don’t ask unless you really care.

I have had many a consultation with a couple where the groom is asked by the bride, “what do you think of these flowers”, and he quite frankly has no opinion.  On the other hand I have had consultations where the groom expresses his dislike for pink rose boutonnieres or mentions that a certain flower would be nice to have in the centerpieces.  Making decisions as a couple can be a way to bond over the planning details and is an opportunity to work together as a couple.  You and your partner may have opinions you didn’t even know you had!

For those who are having trouble finding elements of the planning that your partner “cares about” you should consider handing over certain details so there is some ownership.  Perhaps selecting the music, the photographer or the menu is something that is easier to get involved with than selecting linens, china and decor.  My husband had an opinion about our napkin colors–who knew!    

No matter what your style is as a couple it is so much nicer to tackle the planning together as the partners you are than to charge forward on your own.  This day is about celebrating both of you.  Happy planning!