Wedding Corsages [10 Things You Need To Know] (2024)

When it comes to wedding corsages, there’s a lot of different things to consider.

To help you understand their purpose, I have pulled together some of the most commonly asked questions.

From what they are, to who wears them, all the way through to how they are worn.

So whether you are planning a wedding or attending one as a guest, this is what you will need to know.

What Does Corsage Mean?

A corsage is a small collection of flowers that are pinned to a woman’s dress or around her wrist.

They are most commonly worn at weddings and other specific formal events (including homecomings and proms).

What Flowers Are Used In A Corsage?

Corsages are made up of 1-2 focal flowers and are accompanied by filler flowers and accents (greenery).

The most popular flowers used in corsages include roses, orchids, carnations, daisies, freesias, and lilies.

Roses and carnations are popular choices because they come in different colors and generally last a long time without wilting.

Who Gets A Corsage At A Wedding?

Corsages are worn by specific female guests at a wedding, typically family members, close friends, and those in the bridal party (bridesmaids and maid/matron of honor).

Sometimes a wedding coordinator will get a corsage too if they are female and have been hired for the wedding.

Do Step-parents Get Corsages At Weddings?

It is common practice and etiquette for step-parents to get corsages at a wedding.

Although step-parents may potentially be given a slightly different corsage (comprised of other flowers or colors) as a means of distinguishing.

Do Corsages And Boutonnieres Have To Match?

Corsages and boutonnieres do not necessarily have to match, although it usually looks better if they do.

Matching the flowers and/or colors is one way you can create consistency and tie in all the theme colors.

What Side Does A Woman Wear A Corsage?

A woman typically wears the corsage on her right side, which is opposite to the men’s boutonnieres (right side).

If the corsage is being pinned, traditionally, it should point downwards, with the stem pointing towards the shoulder.

What Is A Shoulder Corsage?

Shoulder corsages are small flower arrangements that sit on the shoulder instead of pinned to the chest or worn on the wrist.

They are typically much more extensive and extend to both the front and back of the dress.

Who Buys The Corsages?

Traditionally, the corsages’ cost was taken on by the groom (along with the boutonnieres.) The bride’s family would then purchase all other flowers required, such as the bride’s and bridesmaids’ bouquets.

However, in more recent times, couples tend to split these costs equally and include them in the overall wedding budget.

When Should You Get A Corsage?

Corsages should be ordered and picked up from the florist no sooner than 1-2 days before the event – however, the latest you can pick them up, the better.

This should ensure they stay fresh and do not wilt.

How Long Do Corsages Last?

Corsages should last up to 24 hours, although this depends on the type of flower used and how they are stored.

Avoiding getting the corsages too early, spraying them gently with water, refrigerating, and storing them in the box that they come in are other ways to help preserve them ahead of the event.

How Much Do Corsages Cost?

Corsages can cost between $15-$50 each, depending on the florist, flowers selected, size and style.

You can typically lower the total cost to between $5-$20 apiece by making your own corsages.

Final Thoughts

Corsages are certainly very traditional.

There is even some debate if they are even still entirely necessary.

Nevertheless, they are still commonly worn at weddings and other formal events.

And there is quite a bit to consider with them too.

So much so that they can easily be a source of stress and anxiety.

There are many different options to consider, from the flowers used to the colors worn.

Thankfully, with a little bit of research and planning, deciding upon and organizing should not be too much of a challenge.

Besides, there are always wedding planners and wedding coordinators who can help.
Your chosen florists will also have a lot of knowledge to leverage too.