DIY Bridesmaid Bouquets

Bridesmaid bouquets should be smaller, simpler versions of the bride's bouquet.

Putting together your own bridesmaid bouquets comes with several benefits. You will save plenty of money -- bouquets can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a florist. You will also have the peace of mind that comes with being able to control the exact design, color and flowers of each bouquet. Bridesmaid bouquets are usually simplified versions of the bridal bouquet: They use the same colors and some of the same flowers, but are smaller. One of the more popular styles, the dome-shaped bridesmaid bouquet, is simple and elegant.

Things You'll Need

• Flowers
• Stem strippers
• Knife or stem cutter
• Bucket
• Floral tape
• Ribbon
• Scissors
• Pins

Instructions

1. Obtain the flowers you will use for the bridesmaid bouquet: about 20 to 40 stems altogether, depending on the bouquet size you want. Fewer flowers may be needed to ensure that this bouquet is smaller than the bridal bouquet. Your bouquet may consist of all one flower, such as roses. You could also do a mix of flowers, like four gerbera daisies or lilies, with smaller daisy-mums and a complementing filler flower.

2. Strip the flower stems of all leaves. If you are including roses, use a stem stripper to take any thorns off. Cut the flower stems with a knife or stem cutter at an angle; this will ensure the flowers take in adequate water. The stems should be about 12 inches long. Place the flowers in a bucket filled with water until you're ready to use them.

3. Put four of your largest flowers in one hand, assembling them into a square shape at an even height. This forms the dome's center.

4. Add the rest of the flowers to the bouquet one by one, interspersing them around the four main flowers to fill in the dome shape. Make sure all flowers are facing up or out. If you've chosen to use a variety of flowers, spread them out evenly so the bouquet looks balanced.

5. Add filler flowers to the bouquet, if desired. Fillers such as caspia or baby's breath are useful for filling in any gaps or adding variety and color. Greenery may also be added.

6. Bind the flower stems with the floral tape. Do this at the place where they naturally come together, about 3 or 4 inches down from the flower heads. Be sure to stretch the tape as you wrap it tightly around the stems. Wrap the stems together a second time, about 2 inches from the bottom.

7. Wrap the ribbon around the stems, starting at the top and working your way to the bottom. Then wrap it back up to the top, cut it with the scissors, and tuck the end into the existing ribbon. Secure the ribbon at the top with several decorative pins.

Tips & Warnings

• Look in a mirror while you're assembling the bouquet to get a more accurate idea of how it will look.

• Assemble all bouquets the morning of the wedding for maximum freshness; store them in a refrigerator until the ceremony.

• Wrap additional decorations, such as beads or tulle, around the stems for added elegance.

• Use extreme caution if you're using a knife to cut the flower stems.

• Do not use scissors to cut flower stems; scissors will seal off the stems and make it difficult for the flowers to take in water.

References

• J R Roses: DIY Bouquets: The Basics
• All Wedding Ideas: Do it Yourself Wedding Bouquet