Personal flowers have been a hallmark of special occasions for centuries. In ancient times, there was a belief that certain types of herbs or flowers could ward off evil spirits, thus safeguarding the wearer. Over time that belief shifted and the gifting and wearing of personal flowers became a symbol of respect, connection and honour. While corsages became a fashionable everyday accessory for women during the Victorian era, nowadays personal flowers are kept for special occasions such as weddings, graduations, anniversaries or birthdays.
Corsages & Boutonnieres
Corsages were first worn on the bodice of women’s dresses, usually right in the middle of the neckline. This early incarnation of corsages were usually large, fragrant flowers that were pinned upside down on the bodice to stave off wilting throughout the day. Trends have shifted from large showy flowers to smaller, more delicate blooms pinned near the shoulder or worn on the wrist of ladies.
When ordering a corsage, you should be mindful of the type of flower you are considering. While just about all flowers can be used in a corsage, some are better suited for this purpose than others. Spray roses, orchids and ranunculus are excellent choices as they are a bit heartier and hold up better out of water.
Boutonnieres are named for the buttonhole in a man’s suit jacket, as it was once common practice to tuck a small bloom in this place. If fact, when a man presented his lady with a bouquet, he would often pluck a bloom from the bunch and place it in his buttonhole to remind him of her.
Men’s personal flowers have always remained a small nod to their partner’s larger, showier corsage. All green boutonnieres made of eucalyptus, olive or ruscus are among the most popular choices for men’s personal flowers currently but a man can never go wrong with sporting a bud that compliments his partner.
Crowns & Combs
Flower crowns can range from simple daisy wreaths to more elaborate halos with mixed blooms of various colors. There are as many variations of these floral treats as there are lovelies who wish to wear them for their special day – or just any day.
A crown begins with a solid filler base such as waxflower or baby’s breath. The feature flowers for floral crowns are usually lighter, more delicate flowers such as daisies, straw flowers or ranunculus. Dried flowers are also an excellent option for crown as they will last forever, no matter the temperature or weather conditions.
Another option for flowers for your hair are floral combs. These little blooms are the perfect accent for a formal up-do or a casual pinning back of your locks. Ranunculus, lisianthus and germinis are all beautiful options for hair accessories. More delicate flowers can be used in hair combs because they are less likely to be jostled, re-positioned, or crushed than a corsage.
A Word About Personals
While personal florals can complete your look and add a special touch to your event, you must remember that flowers are fragile. Corsages & Boutonnieres don’t hold up well to a lot of contact, like getting caught in a hug, chest bump or fist bump. They also can wilt in very hot weather so giving your buds a little spritz of water during the day can help to perk them up again.
A Little Something Special
Grad 2020 is certainly not a traditional grad season. There have been some disappointments and a good measure of uncertainty. With our grads in mind, we have teamed up with a local photographer to offer a very special experience. Please click the link for all of the details of our Grad Photo Session partnership with Brenna Faris Photography.
