How to Make DIY Boutonnieres
Boutonnieres are some of the easiest wedding flowers to make yourself. With a few fresh flowers, greenery, floral tape, and ribbon, you can create boutonnieres that match your wedding flowers.
Making your own boutonnieres is a good way to use flowers from a DIY flower bucket and helps you stick to your wedding flower budget.
What You’ll Need
For each boutonniere, gather:
* 1 focal flower or small flower cluster
* 1–2 small filler flowers
* 1–2 stems of greenery
* Floral tape
* Ribbon or twine
* Floral shears or sharp scissors
* Pins or boutonniere magnets
Choose flowers with sturdy stems that will last for several hours. Garden roses, lisianthus, asters, feverfew, yarrow, and other seasonal flowers all work well.
Step 1: Prepare Your Flowers
Remove any leaves or damaged petals.
Cut the stems to about 6 to 8 inches long so you have enough to work with. Keep the flowers in clean water while you gather your other materials.
Step 2: Choose Your Main Flower
Select one flower to be the focal point of the boutonniere.
Hold the flower upright and add a bit of greenery behind it. Keep the arrangement small and tidy, rather than making it look like a mini bouquet.
A simple boutonniere often looks more polished than one with many different flowers.
Step 3: Add Filler Flowers
Add one or two small filler flowers around the focal bloom.
Delicate seasonal flowers, small clusters, or fine-textured greenery all make good filler.
Vary the heights of the flowers a bit to give the boutonniere a natural, garden-like look.
Step 4: Add Greenery
Place one or two small pieces of greenery behind or alongside the flowers.
Cut off any pieces that seem too big or heavy.
Step 5: Secure the Stems
Once you are happy with the design, hold all the stems firmly together.
Start wrapping the stems tightly with floral tape just below the flowers. Continue wrapping down the stems until they feel secure.
Keep the boutonniere narrow so it’s easy to pin onto a jacket.
Step 6: Wrap the Stem
Trim the stems to approximately 3–4 inches below the flowers.
Wrap ribbon, twine, or another decorative material over the floral tape to match your wedding colours.
Secure the ribbon with a small pin or a bit of floral glue.
Step 7: Keep the Boutonnieres Fresh
Keep the finished boutonnieres in a cool place until you need them.
Make the boutonnieres on the morning of the wedding or the day before. Refrigerate them only if your flowers can handle the cold.
Don’t store finished boutonnieres next to fruit, because some fruit gives off gases that can make flowers wilt faster.
DIY Boutonniere Design Ideas
Classic and Simple
A small rose, some greenery, and a ribbon wrap make a classic boutonniere.
Garden-Inspired
Combine a seasonal main flower with feverfew, yarrow, grasses, and soft greenery for a relaxed, garden-inspired style.
Soft and Romantic
Use a small garden rose or lisianthus with light filler flowers and soft greenery.
Rustic
Choose seasonal flowers with greenery and wrap the stems with natural twine for a rustic touch.
Minimalist
Choose one standout flower and a single piece of greenery. This simple style works well for modern weddings.
Tips for Making Boutonnieres From DIY Wedding Flowers
Keep boutonnieres small, so they’re comfortable to wear and don’t overpower a suit or jacket.
Use the same flowers and greenery in your bouquets, arrangements, and boutonnieres for a unified look.
Make one or two extra boutonnieres, just in case. Since flowers are natural, it’s smart to have spares. Try making a sample boutonniere before you make the rest. This helps you figure out the best size and flower mix.
Keep boutonnieres cool, because heat and sunlight can make fresh flowers wilt quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many flowers do I need for one boutonniere?
Usually, you’ll need one main flower, one or two smaller flowers, and some greenery. The exact number depends on the size of your flowers.
When should I make DIY boutonnieres?
It’s best to make boutonnieres the morning of the wedding or the day before. Try to make them as close to the wedding as possible, but give yourself enough time so you’re not rushed.
Can I make boutonnieres from a DIY flower bucket?
Yes, you can. DIY flower buckets are great for finding flowers and greenery for boutonnieres. Choose smaller blooms and sturdy greenery for the best results.
How do I attach a boutonniere?
Attach a traditional boutonniere to a jacket with two straight pins, placing them behind the boutonniere so they stay hidden. You can also use a boutonniere magnet.
Should the boutonniere match the bridal bouquet?
The boutonniere doesn’t have to match the bridal bouquet exactly. Using one or two of the same flowers, colours, or greenery is usually enough to tie everything together.
How do I keep boutonnieres fresh before the wedding?
Store boutonnieres in a cool place, away from sunlight and heat. Try not to handle the flowers too much and follow the care tips for the types of flowers you’re using.