6 Fun Bridesmaid Bouquet Alternatives

Where is the law that says your bridesmaids have to walk down the aisle holding floral bouquets? If you want your wedding to be a little unconventional, what about considering some fun bridesmaid bouquet alternatives?

Florals and decor combined are one of the most expensive features of a wedding. And let’s be honest. We can’t all be Rockefellers when it comes to our wedding budgets. So cutting down on florals can be a great way to free up some cash for other things.

It can also be fun to get a little non-traditional with your wedding plans and surprise your guests who have most likely been to dozens of weddings. Make your wedding memorable and unique, and use this opportunity to throw more of your personality into your wedding ceremony. 

It’s 2021. Let’s get creative. 

Here are 6 ideas for some fun bridesmaid bouquet alternatives: 

1. Books
2. Pinwheels
3. Oversized balloons
4. Wreaths
5. Fans
6. Lanterns

1. Books

Book lovers, this one’s for you. If your relationship involves a love of literature, look no further for bridesmaid bouquet alternatives than your bookshelf. Incorporate this important aspect that unites you as a couple into your wedding by choosing some of your mutual favorite books for your bridesmaids to hold as they walk down the aisle. 

If your favorites include some classics, add a little aesthetic appeal by getting pretty copies for the big day, like these Barnes & Noble collectible editions. While we aren’t supposed to judge a book by its cover, it’s okay to choose a pretty copy of your favorites. And if some of your favorites are fairytales, you’re that much closer to a “fairytale wedding.” However, maybe stay away from any books covering a tragedy.

2. Pinwheels

No, we are not suggesting those little *sandwich appetizers as one of the bridesmaid bouquet alternatives you should consider. However, those fun twirly things are a definite YES! 

This could be an especially fun option for an outdoor wedding with a breeze blowing. And there are so many fun shapes, colors, materials, and styles to choose from, you’re sure to find something perfect to fit your wedding theme. Or, better yet, you and your bridesmaids can whip up some mimosas and make them together!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88naDt6PjA4

*Although now that I’m thinking about it, having your bridesmaids hold sandwiches doesn’t sound like such a bad idea…

3. Oversized balloons

Another one of the unique bridesmaid bouquet alternatives to consider that is great for outdoor weddings is to use oversized balloons. This is great for outdoor weddings because there is no ceiling limit, but do be cautious of the weather and wind. This definitely can be a charming indoor option as well.

Balloons have become rather stylish, with so many more shapes, colors, sizes, and finishes than ever before. There are even light-up balloons that could really jazz up an evening or dimly-lit wedding! If you’re a bride who’s got a bit of a playful side, using balloons as a bridesmaid bouquet alternative might be right up your alley. Your wedding is a celebration after all!

4. Wreaths

If you’re looking for classic bridesmaid bouquet alternatives but still want to keep it somewhat floral, consider using wreaths. Any style and color scheme can be achieved with wreaths. But if you are having a more bohemian style wedding, a natural twig and foliage based wreath could be an unexpected way to bring some earthiness to your ceremony.

5. Folding fans

This is another one of the bridesmaid bouquet alternatives we are definitely a fan of (pun intended). You can find folding fans of any style from simple to elaborate. Fans are lady-like and elegant, and could be a very charming bouquet alternative for your bridesmaids. 

Pair a fan with a flattering empire-waisted bridesmaid gown for a very feminine look with a Regency-era historical nod a-la-Jane Austen. This is also a handy and functional alternative to a traditional bouquet to keep your bridesmaids cool in an outdoor summer wedding. It’s also a great keepsake for your bridesmaids to hang on to for those post-wedding memories.

6. Lanterns

One of the dreamiest bridesmaid bouquet alternatives is for your bridesmaids to hold lanterns. If your wedding is outdoors in the evening or indoors in a dimly-lit setting, you really should consider lanterns for your bridesmaids. Your guests will be surprised and delighted by the glowing spectacle of your girls walking down the aisle illuminated by the lights. It sets a very romantic mood. And, after all, romance is what your wedding is all about.

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