How to Make a Calla Lily Boutonniere: A Step-by-Step Guide

The calla lily, with its elegant trumpet shape and striking beauty, is a timeless choice for wedding florals. And what better way to showcase this iconic bloom than in a boutonniere? A calla lily boutonniere adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any groom or groomsman’s attire. But crafting one yourself might seem daunting. Fear not! This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, empowering you to create a stunning boutonniere that will be the envy of all.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you dive into the creative process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials:

• Calla lilies: Choose fresh, firm calla lilies in your desired color. Remember, white calla lilies are classic, but you can opt for other shades like yellow, pink, or even black for a bolder statement.
• Floral wire: This will provide the structure for your boutonniere. Choose a gauge that is sturdy enough to support the calla lily but not too thick to be noticeable.
• Floral tape: This is essential for securing the flower and wire together. Choose a color that blends with the stem of your calla lily.
• Scissors or floral shears: These will help you trim the stem and wire to the desired length.
• Ribbon or twine: This will be used to tie the boutonniere to the lapel. Choose a ribbon or twine that complements the calla lily’s color and the overall wedding theme.
• Optional: A small piece of greenery, such as eucalyptus or fern, can add texture and dimension to your boutonniere.

Preparing the Calla Lily

The first step is to prepare your calla lily. This involves removing any excess leaves and trimming the stem to the desired length.

1. Remove Excess Leaves: Carefully remove any leaves that are below the waterline of the calla lily. These leaves will not be needed for the boutonniere and will only wilt and decay.
2. Trim the Stem: Use your scissors or floral shears to trim the stem of the calla lily to a length of about 3-4 inches. This length will ensure that the boutonniere sits comfortably on the lapel.

Creating the Base

Now, you’ll create the base for your boutonniere using floral wire. This will provide the structure to support the calla lily and allow it to be easily attached to the lapel.

1. Cut the Wire: Cut a piece of floral wire about 6 inches long.
2. Bend the Wire: Bend the wire in half to create a loop at one end. This loop will be used to attach the boutonniere to the lapel.
3. Secure the Wire: Wrap the floral tape around the wire, starting at the loop and working your way down to the end of the wire. This will help to secure the wire and prevent it from unraveling.

Assembling the Boutonniere

Now comes the fun part – assembling the boutonniere. You’ll be attaching the calla lily to the wire base and adding any optional greenery.

1. Attach the Calla Lily: Hold the calla lily by the stem and gently insert it into the loop of the wire. Make sure the flower is positioned upright and centered on the wire.
2. Secure the Calla Lily: Wrap floral tape around the base of the calla lily, securing it to the wire. Continue wrapping the tape down the stem, covering the wire completely.
3. Add Greenery (Optional): If you’re using greenery, trim it to a size that complements the calla lily and attach it to the wire base using floral tape. Place the greenery just below the calla lily, creating a balanced look.

Finishing Touches

The final step is to add a ribbon or twine for attaching the boutonniere to the lapel.

1. Tie the Ribbon: Cut a piece of ribbon or twine about 12 inches long. Tie a knot at one end of the ribbon, leaving about 3 inches of ribbon hanging.
2. Attach the Ribbon: Wrap the ribbon around the base of the boutonniere, just below the floral tape. Tie a knot at the other end of the ribbon, securing it to the base.
3. Adjust the Ribbon: Adjust the length of the ribbon so that it hangs comfortably from the lapel. You can trim any excess ribbon or twine.

Final Thoughts: Your Calla Lily Boutonniere is Ready

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a beautiful and unique calla lily boutonniere. Now, you can admire your handiwork and feel proud of your DIY accomplishment. Remember, with a little creativity and care, you can personalize your boutonniere to perfectly match the wedding theme and the groom’s style.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Your Personal Touch

While the basic steps provide a solid foundation, there are endless ways to personalize your calla lily boutonniere. Here are a few ideas to make your boutonniere truly unique:

• Experiment with Different Calla Lily Colors: Instead of sticking with white, explore the vibrant hues of yellow, pink, or even black calla lilies.
• Incorporate Unique Greenery: Add texture and depth with unusual greenery like succulents, ferns, or sprigs of rosemary.
• Play with Ribbon Styles: Choose a ribbon that complements the wedding theme, whether it’s a classic satin ribbon, a rustic twine, or a whimsical lace ribbon.
• Add a Personal Touch: Attach a small charm or bead to the wire base, representing something meaningful to the groom, like his favorite hobby or a symbol of your love story.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: How long will a calla lily boutonniere last?

A: A fresh calla lily boutonniere can last for a few days with proper care. To prolong its life, keep it cool and out of direct sunlight. You can also mist the flower with water to keep it hydrated.

Q: Can I make a calla lily boutonniere in advance?

A: It’s best to assemble the boutonniere the day of the wedding to ensure the calla lily remains fresh. However, you can prepare the wire base and ribbon in advance.

Q: What are some alternative flowers I can use for a boutonniere?

A: Besides calla lilies, other popular choices for boutonnieres include roses, orchids, carnations, and even small succulents.

Q: How can I make sure the boutonniere stays attached to the lapel?

A: Use a safety pin to secure the ribbon or twine to the groom’s lapel. Make sure the pin is positioned securely and out of sight.

Q: What are some tips for caring for a calla lily boutonniere?

A: Keep the boutonniere out of direct sunlight and heat. Mist the flower with water to keep it hydrated. Avoid touching the petals excessively to prevent damage.