The Perfect Way to Hold Your Wedding Bouquet

A wedding bouquet is not just a bundle of flowers… you’ve spent a lot of time on Pinterest looking at bouquets, chosen to invest in flowers, and your floral designer has chosen only the best blooms to showcase. You’re going to want to hold it right! 

As the person getting married, or someone standing next to them, the way you hold your bouquet can make a huge difference in your wedding photos. Whether you've chosen a loose, organic bouquet or a tightly bound posy, here's a guide to help you hold your bouquet with poise and confidence on your big day.

1. Find the Right Spot: Hold the bouquet slightly below the bloom area. This will give you better control and help you maintain the bouquet's balance without obscuring the beauty of the flowers. If you have a trailing ribbon, make sure the ribbon drapes over your hand so that it doesn’t get caught in the stems. Keep the stems tilted away from your navel for a natural and flattering pose.

I like to tell the wedding party either “bouquet to belly” or “pubes not boobs” (depending on the crowd). You want the stems low and bouquet tilted forward.

2. Be mindful of the front and back of the bouquet. Your florist will likely demonstrate and show you, but just in case, ask them! I will always put a pin and the person’s favorite flower in the back of the bouquet so that they remember.

3. Soften Your Grasp: While nerves may make you want to clutch your bouquet tightly, try to maintain a gentle grip. A relaxed hold will ensure you don't crush the delicate stems. Imagine holding a fragile butterfly – that's the kind of touch you're aiming for.

4. Maintain Good Posture: Stand tall and straight, just like you practiced in yoga class. Good posture will not only highlight your bouquet but also accentuate your entire appearance. It radiates confidence and elegance, making you feel and look like the stunning individual you are.

5. Relax Your Shoulders: Tension can quickly creep into your shoulders, especially when you're excited or nervous. Take a deep breath and consciously release any tension in your shoulders. This will give your upper body a relaxed and natural appearance.

6. Angle Matters: Hold your bouquet at a slight angle, with the top of the bouquet pointing outward and away from your body. This will prevent the bouquet from hiding your beautiful face in photos and allow the blooms to shine.

7. Be Mindful of Your Dress: Different dresses may require slight adjustments in how you hold your bouquet. If you're wearing a ball gown, hold your bouquet slightly to the side to keep the bodice of the dress visible. For a slimmer silhouette, holding the bouquet straight in front works wonderfully. Just remember to keep the bouquet tilted so that pollen doesn’t get on your outfit. 

Remember, your bouquet is a beautiful accessory that enhances your overall look. By following these tips, you'll master the art of holding your bouquet with grace, making your walk down the aisle even more memorable and enchanting.