How To Make a Boutonniere

When you need an eye-catching boutonniere for a special occasion, you don't have to spend a fortune at the florist. Make your own!

Step 1: Pick your flower Choose a small flower as the centerpiece of your boutonniere; carnations or roses are often used. If you'd like, pick a color that matches your date's dress or the theme of the event. You can also use artificial flowers.
Step 2: Prepare the flower Cut the stem of the flower with the scissors until it is 3 inches long. Remove the leaves and set them aside.
TIP: If you're using artificial flowers, cut the stem down using wire cutters and remove all plastic appendages, leaves, and extra buds.
Step 3: Prepare the flower accents Use a small bunch of baby's breath and greenery to accentuate the flower; lay the baby's breath on top of the greenery. Keep these pieces slightly longer than the flower.
Step 4: Wrap the stems Use green floral tape to wrap the flower tightly with the baby's breath and greenery.
Step 5: Tie the bow Use the silk or satin ribbon in a complementary color to hide the floral tape and tie a pretty bow.
Step 6: Store the flower in a special case Place the flower gently in a clear plastic case and leave in the refrigerator until the event. This will help keep it fresh until the big event.
FACT: The word boutonniere is French, meaning buttonhole.