HOW TO - BE A CORSAGE & BUTTONHOLE PRO

It's a tradition (dating back to before your parents were born) for the guy to buy his date a corsage and for the gal to buy him a buttonhole in return...

A corsage is a small bunch of 2 or 3 flowers and sometimes ribbon that is wired together. It comes in two different styles depending on what style the dress is.  If the dress is strapless, you should buy a wrist corsage, otherwise one that can be pinned onto the dress with the stems pointing up is correct. Ask your date what style and colour her dress is so you know what to get.

A buttonhole is usually a single flower (like a rose or orchid) that is worn on the guy's lapel. The proper way for a buttonhole to be worn is with the stems pointing down and on the left hand side.

A new trend is for the girl wear her corsage on her handbag.  For guys who aren't into wearing a buttonhole, the gal could organize the tie for her date's suit. Let her know if you would prefer the tie or buttonhole - or double the stakes and ask for both!
 

Hot tips:
- If you're lost for ideas, talk to the florist and ask to see some pics for ideas. They will also let you know when is the best time to pick them up ... usually a few hours before the big night.
- It's always good to order the corsage and buttonhole from the same florist to make sure you both co-ordinate.
- Buttonholes and Corsages are a bit fiddly and labour intensive for the florist to make so can sometimes be a bit price-ex'y but they are an essential.
- A good idea is to get your School Formal Committee to approach their fave 'petal pusher' to do everyone's and you might be able to get some discount!