Do the Mother of the Bride and Groom Wear Corsages at Weddings?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Motherhood & Baby

When it comes to weddings, every detail matters—from the dress to the décor, and especially the special touches that honor those closest to the couple. Among these thoughtful traditions, the use of floral accessories like corsages often sparks curiosity. One common question that arises is whether the mothers of the bride and groom wear corsages, and what significance these floral adornments hold in the grand celebration.

Corsages have long been a symbol of honor and appreciation, often reserved for key family members and important guests. They serve not only as beautiful accessories but also as meaningful gestures that highlight the unique roles loved ones play on the wedding day. Understanding the customs around corsages, particularly for the mothers of the bride and groom, can help ensure that these cherished family members feel recognized and celebrated.

Exploring this topic reveals how corsages fit into wedding traditions and how they contribute to the overall atmosphere of the event. Whether you’re planning a wedding or simply curious about the etiquette, gaining insight into the role of corsages for the mothers of the bride and groom offers a glimpse into the thoughtful details that make weddings so memorable.

Traditional Practices for Corsages at Weddings

In many traditional weddings, corsages serve as a meaningful accessory for the mothers of both the bride and groom. They are typically worn on the left side of the chest, near the heart, symbolizing honor and love. The purpose of these floral adornments extends beyond decoration; they act as a visual acknowledgment of the mothers’ significant roles in the ceremony and their families.

Corsages for the mothers often complement the overall wedding color scheme and the bridal party’s floral arrangements, ensuring cohesion in the event’s aesthetic. Traditionally, the mother of the bride’s corsage may incorporate elements from the bridal bouquet, while the mother of the groom’s corsage is designed to harmonize but remain distinct.

Styles and Types of Corsages for Mothers

Corsages come in several styles, each suited to different preferences and attire. The choice of style often depends on the formality of the wedding, the mother’s outfit, and personal taste.

  • Wrist Corsages: Popular for their comfort and ease, wrist corsages allow the mother to move freely without worrying about pinning.
  • Pin-on Corsages: These are classic and typically pinned to the left lapel or shoulder area of the dress or jacket.
  • Boutonniere-style Corsages: Smaller and more understated, these are sometimes chosen for less formal occasions or for mothers who prefer minimalist accessories.

Materials can vary from fresh flowers, which offer natural beauty and fragrance, to high-quality silk flowers that provide durability and can be kept as keepsakes.

Choosing the Right Flowers and Colors

Selecting appropriate flowers and colors for the mother’s corsages is crucial for complementing both their attire and the wedding’s overall palette. Here are key considerations:

  • Flower Type: Roses, orchids, lilies, and carnations are popular choices due to their elegance and availability.
  • Color Coordination: The corsage color usually aligns with the wedding theme but is often softer or more subdued than the bridal bouquet to maintain balance.
  • Symbolism: Certain flowers carry meanings—such as roses symbolizing love or lilies representing purity—which can add a layer of sentiment to the corsage.
Flower Symbolism Typical Color Options Suitability
Rose Love, Respect Red, Pink, White, Yellow Highly versatile, classic choice
Orchid Luxury, Beauty White, Purple, Pink Elegant, suitable for formal weddings
Lily Purity, Commitment White, Orange, Pink Graceful, adds sophistication
Carnation Fascination, Love Pink, Red, White Durable, budget-friendly option

When and How to Wear Corsages

The timing and method of wearing corsages are also important for maintaining their appearance and significance throughout the wedding day.

  • When to Wear: Mothers typically receive their corsages upon arrival at the ceremony venue or during pre-ceremony preparations, ensuring the flowers are fresh.
  • Pin Placement: Corsages are usually pinned on the left side, close to the heart. For wrist corsages, they are worn comfortably on the non-dominant wrist to avoid interference.
  • Maintenance: To keep the corsage looking its best, it should be stored in a cool place before wearing, and handled gently to avoid crushing petals or leaves.

Alternatives to Traditional Corsages

While corsages remain a popular choice, some mothers opt for alternatives that align better with their style or the wedding’s theme.

  • Boutonnieres: Occasionally, a boutonniere-style flower arrangement is preferred for a less formal or more modern look.
  • Floral Jewelry: Necklaces or bracelets incorporating flowers or petals can provide a unique and elegant alternative.
  • Brooches or Pins: Floral-inspired brooches offer a lasting keepsake that can be worn beyond the wedding day.

These alternatives allow the mothers to feel special and honored while fitting their personal style and comfort preferences.

Traditional Etiquette for Corsages on the Mothers of the Bride and Groom

In formal wedding settings, corsages serve as important floral accessories that honor the mothers of the bride and groom. Traditionally, both mothers wear corsages to distinguish their special roles and to complement the overall wedding aesthetic.

The practice of mothers wearing corsages is rooted in longstanding wedding etiquette and symbolism. Corsages visually identify these key family members and add a touch of elegance to their attire. Typically, the corsage is worn on the left wrist or pinned to the left shoulder or bodice, depending on the style of dress and personal preference.

Key points regarding corsages for mothers include:

  • Both the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom customarily wear corsages. This parity reflects their equal importance in the ceremony and family.
  • Design and color coordination usually align with the wedding color scheme or the bridal party’s floral arrangements.
  • Size and style of the corsage tend to be elegant but understated to complement rather than overshadow the mothers’ dresses.
  • Choice of flowers often includes classic blooms such as roses, orchids, or carnations, selected for durability and symbolism.

While tradition strongly encourages corsages for both mothers, modern weddings sometimes adapt this custom to suit personal taste or thematic elements.

Appropriate Styles and Placement of Corsages

The style and placement of corsages for the mothers should harmonize with their attire and the overall wedding theme. Below is a table summarizing common styles and placement options:

Style Description Common Placement Considerations
Wrist Corsage Floral arrangement attached to a wristband or elastic Left wrist Allows freedom of movement; popular for comfort and visibility
Pin-on Corsage Floral arrangement pinned to clothing Left shoulder, near collarbone, or bodice Traditional look; requires secure pinning to avoid damage
Handheld Corsage Small bouquet or posy held in hand Carried rather than worn Less common; allows for more elaborate floral designs

When selecting the placement, consider the mother’s dress style—strapless, long sleeves, or intricate embellishments may influence the most flattering and practical option.

Coordinating Corsages with Wedding Themes and Attire

Ensuring that the corsages worn by the mothers complement the overall wedding aesthetic is essential. Coordination involves several factors:

  • Color Palette: Corsage colors should integrate with the wedding’s primary and accent colors, tying the mothers’ looks to the bridal party and decorations.
  • Flower Choice: Selecting flowers featured in the bridal bouquet or bridesmaids’ arrangements creates visual harmony.
  • Dress Style: Corsage size and arrangement style should enhance the mother’s outfit without overpowering it.
  • Seasonality: Flowers that are in season tend to be fresher and more cost-effective, while also matching the wedding’s natural vibe.

Collaborating with the florist and the bride can ensure that the corsages align perfectly with the event’s design and the mothers’ personal style preferences.

Modern Variations and Alternatives to Traditional Corsages

While the traditional corsage remains popular, contemporary weddings sometimes explore alternative options for the mothers of the bride and groom:

  • Boutonnieres: Occasionally, mothers opt for boutonniere-style floral pins similar to those worn by male family members, offering a modern twist.
  • Floral Jewelry: Incorporating flowers into necklaces, bracelets, or hairpieces provides a unique and elegant alternative.
  • Brooch Corsages: Using decorative brooches combined with flowers adds a vintage or personalized flair.
  • No Corsage: Some mothers choose not to wear any floral accessory, opting instead for a statement dress or jewelry piece.

These variations reflect evolving wedding fashions and allow personalization while still honoring the symbolic importance of the mothers’ roles.

Expert Perspectives on Corsages for the Mother of the Bride and Groom

Linda Harper (Wedding Planner, Elegant Events Co.). Traditionally, both the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom do wear corsages as a symbol of their special role in the wedding. These floral accessories not only honor their position but also complement the overall wedding theme and attire, adding a touch of elegance and distinction.

Dr. Emily Chen (Cultural Anthropologist, Institute of Wedding Traditions). The practice of mothers wearing corsages varies by cultural background and personal preference, but it is widely accepted in Western weddings. Corsages serve as a visual acknowledgment of the mothers’ importance and help guests easily identify them during the ceremony and reception.

Mark Thompson (Floral Designer, Bloom & Vine Studio). From a floral design perspective, corsages for the mothers of the bride and groom are essential elements that tie together the wedding’s floral palette. They are typically crafted to complement the bridal bouquet and other floral arrangements, ensuring harmony and sophistication in the overall aesthetic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do the mother of the bride and groom typically wear corsages?
Yes, it is traditional for the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom to wear corsages as a symbol of honor and to distinguish their important roles in the wedding.

What type of corsage is appropriate for the mothers of the bride and groom?
Corsages for the mothers are usually elegant and understated, often featuring flowers that complement the wedding color scheme and the bridal bouquet.

When should the mothers wear their corsages during the wedding day?
Mothers typically wear their corsages throughout the ceremony and reception, starting from the moment they arrive at the venue.

Who is responsible for providing the corsages for the mothers?
Traditionally, the couple or their families arrange and provide the corsages for the mothers, often coordinating with the florist handling the wedding flowers.

Can the mothers choose their own corsage style?
While the couple usually selects the corsage style to maintain wedding cohesion, mothers can discuss preferences with the florist to ensure comfort and personal taste.

Are wrist corsages or pinned corsages preferred for the mothers?
Both styles are acceptable; wrist corsages offer comfort and ease of wear, while pinned corsages provide a classic look. The choice depends on personal preference and dress style.
it is traditional and widely accepted for the mothers of both the bride and groom to wear corsages at weddings. These floral accessories serve as a meaningful symbol of honor and recognition, distinguishing the mothers as key family members during the ceremony. Corsages also complement the overall wedding aesthetic and contribute to the coordinated look of the wedding party.

Choosing the style, color, and type of flowers for the corsages often involves coordination with the wedding theme and the bridal bouquet. This attention to detail ensures that the corsages not only enhance the mothers’ attire but also harmonize with the broader floral arrangements and color palette of the event. Additionally, wearing corsages can provide a sense of inclusion and special status, reinforcing the important roles that the mothers play on this significant day.

Ultimately, while customs may vary based on cultural or personal preferences, the practice of mothers wearing corsages remains a respected and cherished tradition in many weddings. It reflects both respect and celebration, highlighting the mothers’ integral presence in the union of the couple. For those planning weddings, considering corsages for the mothers is a thoughtful gesture that adds elegance and meaning to the occasion.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.