Do Groomsmen Need Boutonnieres? A Guide to Wedding Florals for the Guys


When planning your wedding flowers, one of the most common questions couples ask is: Do groomsmen need boutonnieres? The short answer: They don’t need them—but they’re a classic touch for good reason.

Whether you're going for traditional elegance or a modern, minimalist vibe, boutonnieres can be a meaningful way to tie your groomsmen into the overall look and feel of your wedding. Let’s break down the history, the benefits, and how to decide whether boutonnieres are right for your big day.

What Is a Boutonniere?

A boutonniere is a small floral arrangement—typically one or two blooms with greenery—worn on the left lapel of a suit or tuxedo. Traditionally, they’re pinned just above the heart and mirror the bridal bouquet in color or style.

In weddings, boutonnieres are most commonly worn by:

  • The groom
  • Groomsmen
  • Fathers and grandfathers of the couple
  • Officiants or ring bearers

Boutonnieres are symbolic, timeless, and a small but impactful way to honor the important men in your life.

Do Groomsmen Need Boutonnieres?

No, groomsmen aren’t required to wear boutonnieres. Like most wedding traditions, it’s completely optional and depends on your style, budget, and priorities.

However, there are a few reasons many couples still choose them:

  1. They Add a Polished Look - A boutonniere instantly elevates a suit and helps groomsmen look cohesive and event-ready. It’s a simple way to dress up a basic outfit.
  2. They Complement the Wedding Colors - Boutonnieres are often designed to match the bride’s bouquet or the overall floral palette, helping tie the groomsmen into the wedding’s aesthetic.
  3. They Stand Out in Photos - Small details like boutonnieres show up beautifully in portraits, especially for close-up shots and group photos.
  4. They Create a Sense of Unity - Just as bridesmaids often carry similar bouquets, matching boutonnieres help signify who’s in your wedding party.

When to Skip the Boutonnieres

There are a few reasons couples might skip boutonnieres for groomsmen:

  • Minimalist Weddings: Some couples opt for a sleek, boutonniere-free look.
  • Budget-Friendly Choices: Eliminating boutonnieres can slightly reduce floral costs.
  • Non-Traditional Attire: If groomsmen aren’t wearing jackets or lapels (e.g. suspenders or short sleeves), boutonnieres may not be practical.
  • Outdoor or Windy Venues: Sometimes it’s just easier not to worry about pinning delicate flowers in breezy conditions.

If you do skip them, you can still create cohesion with matching pocket squares, ties, or boutonnieres just for the groom and best man.

Evans Flowers Makes It Easy

Whether you’re planning to include boutonnieres for every groomsman or just want a few meaningful blooms for the groom, we can design something that fits your vision and budget. We even offer DIY boutonniere kits for crafty couples who want to build them at home with our guidance and materials.

Not sure what you need? Book a floral consultation—we’ll walk you through your options and help you decide what works best for your wedding day.  Schedule an appointment with us or call at (978) 531 0047

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