Does the grandfather wear a boutonniere or corsage?
Yes, traditionally. Grandfathers are honored guests and are typically offered a boutonniere, often simpler and lighter for comfort.
Yes, traditionally. Grandfathers are honored guests and are typically offered a boutonniere, often simpler and lighter for comfort.
Etiquette at a glance
| Traditional flower | Boutonniere |
|---|---|
| Where & which side | Left lapel, above the buttonhole. A lighter flower is easier on an older guest's jacket. |
| 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 | Keep it light and easy to pin; offer help attaching it. |
Pick the right form
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Alternatives
- Pocket-square boutonniere
- A small single-bloom boutonniere
Copy a florist note for the grandfather
Wedding flower order - 1 x Boutonniere for the grandfather (left lapel) 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.
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Frequently asked
Does the grandfather wear a boutonniere?
Yes, traditionally. Grandfathers are honored guests and are typically offered a boutonniere, often simpler and lighter for comfort.
Where does the grandfather's flower go, and on which side?
Left lapel, above the buttonhole. A lighter flower is easier on an older guest's jacket.
Who pays for the grandfather'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 grandfather 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 grandfather?
Common alternatives: Pocket-square boutonniere; A small single-bloom boutonniere.
Sources & method
The Knot lists Grandfathers among boutonniere wearers. Rinlong 2026 table: grandfathers -> boutonniere, 'often simpler and lighter for comfort'. 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.