Buttonholes

Although not a requirement for anyone other than the groom, his best man and the bride's father, they are a relively inexpensive way of singling-out the wedding party and other close family members. They also look really smart. Buttonholes should really be provided for the ushers and the groom's father too, and for readers, brothers and close male family members if the budget allows.

Buttonholes can be created from a cluster of blooms or a single flower. Or they not need to be flowers at all but could be made from herbs, leaves or berries and with beads, feathers, ribbons and other fancy trimmings.Buttonholes can be simple or elaborate, casual or formal. A starting point will be the bride's flowers. I would always suggest that the flowers in the bouquet should be part of the general theme. You could single-out one bloom or one colour. It will need to complement the detail in the groom's outfit and, as with the rest of the flowers, ensure the buttonholes reflect the style of the event and the venue.

The groom's buttonhole may be the same as those worn by the rest of the wedding party, or completely different. It could be a more eleborate or larger version. It could match the main flower in the bride's bouquet whilst the others match a bloom the bridesmaids are carrying. If all the buttonholes are different try and link one detail, such as a style or colour. Also ensure they are suitable to withstand several hours without water, and lots of hugging and kissing!

Agree in writing with your florist where and when the buttonholes (and corsages) are being delivered, especially if it is not to the same address as your bouquet, and know who will be there to receive them. Have a list of names of who the buttonholesare for so that they are not taken by people who should not have them. If not your florist, then give the job to a reliable usher. You could have a removable name on each one. Also ask your florist to provide extra pins.

Buttonholes should be securely fastened with a pin to the left lapel. A final top-tip for the groom is to have a 'no hugging' policy after you have secured your buttonhole until after the photographs, because you don't want it to be crushed.