Does the ceremony reader wear a boutonniere or corsage?
Optional. People performing readings during the ceremony may be given a boutonniere or corsage to honor them as VIPs, but it isn't required.
Optional. People performing readings during the ceremony may be given a boutonniere or corsage to honor them as VIPs, but it isn't required.
Etiquette at a glance
| Traditional flower | Boutonniere or corsage (optional) |
|---|---|
| Where & which side | Boutonniere on the left lapel, or a corsage on the chest or wrist — whichever suits the reader. |
| Who usually buys it | For weddings, the couple (or, traditionally, the groom's family) usually covers corsages and boutonnieres as part of the floral budget. Confirm the count with your florist. |
| When it's worn | Hand them out before the ceremony so they can be worn during the processional and in family photos. |
| Modern note | A nice way to thank a close friend or relative who reads; entirely your call. |
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Alternatives
- A simple boutonniere or wrist corsage
- Skip if you're keeping the flower list tight
Copy a florist note for the ceremony reader
Wedding flower order - 1 x Boutonniere or corsage (optional) for the ceremony reader (lapel or wrist) Note: common wedding norm; confirm style and count with your florist.
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Add how many of each role you're honoring. We'll total the pieces and write a copyable order note your florist can work from — something an instant answer can't do for your specific wedding.
Total: 0 pieces
Frequently asked
Does the ceremony reader wear a boutonniere or a corsage?
Optional. People performing readings during the ceremony may be given a boutonniere or corsage to honor them as VIPs, but it isn't required.
Where does the ceremony reader's flower go, and on which side?
Boutonniere on the left lapel, or a corsage on the chest or wrist — whichever suits the reader.
Who pays for the ceremony reader's wedding flowers?
For weddings, the couple (or, traditionally, the groom's family) usually covers corsages and boutonnieres as part of the floral budget. Confirm the count with your florist.
When should the ceremony reader get their boutonniere or corsage?
Hand them out before the ceremony so they can be worn during the processional and in family photos.
What are good alternatives for the ceremony reader?
Common alternatives: A simple boutonniere or wrist corsage; Skip if you're keeping the flower list tight.
Sources & method
The Knot: 'Those who are performing readings during the ceremony may also receive a boutonniere'; corsages 'may also be presented to ... your cousin who is giving a reading'. Rinlong 2026 table: ceremony readers -> corsage or boutonniere, 'optional, but useful for honoring close friends or relatives'. Fetched 2026-06-19.
Sources: The Knot — Who Gets Wedding Corsages and Boutonnieres · Rinlong Flower — Corsage and Boutonniere Guide 2026
These are common wedding-planning norms, not authoritative rules — modern etiquette is flexible, so ask each recipient their preference and confirm counts with your florist. Last reviewed 2026-06-19.