Like a medal of honour, the floral corsage worn by the mother of the bride or groom at many weddings is often worn as a badge of pride.
A simple way to distinguish the VIPs at a wedding and identify the mothers and grandmothers in both families, corsages are traditionally paid for by the groom.
Deciding what kind of corsage to pick is usually guided in one of two ways: they are either designed to coordinate with the bride's bouquet or else an individual selection is made based on each mother's personal preferences or on a symbolic meaning of flowers.
In the language of flowers developed in Victorian times, for example, specific meanings are attributed to blossoms, herbs and greenery. Applying this lingo for a mother's corsage, good choices could include:
- Gardenia - Grace
- Ivy - Fidelity
- Lily of the valley - Return of happiness
- Mint - Wisdom
- Pansy - Thoughts
- Red chrysanthemum - I love you
- Rosemary - Remembrance
- White chrysanthemum - Truth
When in doubt, opt for simple corsages, such as a small cluster of lily of the valley or a single rose or gardenia, in a cream or off-white tone. This will match virtually any style and colour of dress, looks elegant and symbolize the mothers' presence as honoured guests.
And consider where each woman would prefer to pin her corsage: at the shoulder, waistline, wrist or even on her handbag. This will help the florist create a suitable floral design and help ensure that mom is most comfortable.
