Popular for proms, weddings and other formal events, corsages are available in pin-on and wrist styles and can be made of either fresh or silk flowers.
Typical costs:
Fresh flower corsages typically range from $15 to $45.
In general, wrist corsages cost $2 to $5 more than comparable pin-on corsages.
The type of flowers used will determine the price of a fresh flower corsage. Carnations and alstroemeria corsages tend to be the least expensive, typically ranging from $15 to $20.
Corsages using roses and orchids are moderately expensive, typically ranging from $20 to $45.
Expensive corsages including Calla lilies typically range from $30 to $35. Stephanotis corsages tend to be the most expensive, typically ranging from $45 to $55.
A corsage should include a minimum of one focal flower displayed on a bed of greenery or baby's breath. The number of flowers used will also determine the price of a fresh flower corsage; small corsages have one focal flower, while large corsages may have as many as five flowers grouped together.
A pin-on corsage is essentially the female equivalent of a man's boutonniere. The corsage stem should be securely wrapped in floral tape and a pearl-tipped pin will be inserted for pinning to a dress or jacket.
A wrist corsage should be securely fastened together and attached to an elastic strap or bracelet.
Though they may not have the actual flowers available in the shop, an experienced florist should have photos of corsages in a specific price range and color scheme.
Additional costs:
If ordering a corsage online, expect to pay extra shipping fees for rush orders. Overnight shipping (necessary to keep flowers fresh) is expensive and may raise the overall price of an order, adding $100 or more for even small orders. Shopping at a local florist will help avoid shipping charges.
Discounts:
Ask the florist about special package deals when ordering a number of corsages, boutonnieres, bouquets or centerpieces for a wedding. Some items might be free or discounted for large orders.
Shopping for a corsage:
MyWedding.com[1] offers a florist locator by city, as does The Knot.com[2] . Order FTD[3] flowers online, and they will be shipped to a local florist who is an FTD affiliate.
When ordering corsages for a wedding party, make sure to account for mothers, grandmothers, step-mothers, and all female participants in the ceremony, such as readers, musicians or officiants. It is a good idea to ask each recipient if she would prefer a pin-on or a wrist corsage to go with her outfit.
Wrist corsages are a popular choice for prom, because many girls wear strapless gowns. Flowers may be color-coordinated to the couple's formalwear. Traditionally, the female's prom date will order a corsage for her to wear, while she orders a boutonniere for her prom date.
Remember that fresh flowers often wilt in the heat. Pick up a corsage from the florist the day of the event if possible and refrigerate before wearing.
Ask the florist for recommendations on flowers that are in-season to save money on the order. Be up-front about the budget--a good florist will work to provide the best value for the money.
DIY corsages[4] can save money for those willing to purchase supplies and arrange the flowers on their own.
7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013
7 Ways to Stretch Your Reduced Food Budget End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It's especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet. || Posted November 11 2013
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
UTI urgent care visit Paid: 147.00 Visit was $135. Antibiotics was $12. Waiting for four hours in the waiting room and the visit was quick... [more]
Spanish Medical Interpreter Paid: 150.00 I worked with SynShyne Services out of Monroe, NC. They were so worth the price! Professional, friendly, accurate, great attitude and always on time. I recieved an itemized report after every contact and a user friendly invoice weekly... [more]
Skin prick allergy test Paid: 573.00 Took my 9 yr. old in after an allergic reaction to eggs. Several panels for nuts, fish & top 8 allergens. Sure enough, egg came up. Got a script for epinephrine and left... [more]