The Guide to Having a Second Bouquet to Throw at Your Wedding

Why Have a Second Bouquet?

Tossing your bridal bouquet is a fun, time-honored tradition—but many brides want to keep their original bouquet as a keepsake or to preserve it after the wedding.
That’s where a second bouquet, often called a toss bouquet, comes in. It lets you enjoy the bouquet toss moment without sacrificing your main floral arrangement.


What Is a Toss Bouquet?

A toss bouquet is a smaller, simpler version of your bridal bouquet, designed specifically for the bouquet toss tradition.
It’s usually created to:

  • Match or complement your main bouquet
  • Be lightweight and easy to throw
  • Hold up well to being tossed and caught

Florists often make these using leftover blooms or smaller flowers in your wedding palette.


Benefits of Having a Second Bouquet

  • Keepsake Protection: You can preserve or display your original bouquet afterward.
  • Convenience: The toss bouquet is easier (and safer!) to throw and catch.
  • Cost-Effective: It’s typically smaller and inexpensive compared to your main bouquet.
  • Personal Touch: You can customize it for fun—add charms, ribbons, or even a little note for the catcher.

Tips for Planning Your Toss Bouquet

  1. Ask your florist early.
    Mention your toss bouquet when you first discuss floral arrangements. Most florists can create one easily and cost-effectively.
  2. Coordinate styles.
    Choose flowers that echo your main bouquet but are smaller in scale. You can even opt for silk flowers if you prefer something more durable.
  3. Keep it handy.
    Have your planner, maid of honor, or coordinator hand you the toss bouquet right before the bouquet toss.
  4. Decide when to toss.
    Traditionally, the bouquet toss happens during the reception after dinner and dancing have started. Choose a time when guests are relaxed and ready for some fun.
  5. Make it memorable.
    Consider playing an upbeat song, gathering all single guests, and adding a playful announcement to make the moment special.

What to Do With Your Main Bouquet

Once you’ve swapped in your toss bouquet, your main arrangement can:

  • Be placed in a vase for display during the reception
  • Saved for preservation or pressed flowers
  • Used in post-wedding photos or kept as an heirloom

Florist Thoughts

Having a second bouquet is a simple, thoughtful way to enjoy tradition without compromise.
You’ll get to keep your beautiful wedding bouquet intact—and your guests will still have the fun and excitement of catching a bouquet full of love and luck.