New to Homecoming Mums? What size? What to order? READ THIS!

Your Ultimate Guide to Homecoming Mums and Garters!

March 19, 2013

So, your son or daughter comes home and says they need a homecoming mum or homecoming garter, and you think, "A WHAT??!!" Don't worry! I'm here to help you navigate this fun and exciting process! Let’s make it easier and WAY MORE FUN!

What is a Homecoming Mum or Garter?

If you’ve never heard of these before, you might want to read about Homecoming Mums—the tradition! If you have a general idea, let’s dive right in!

You Need a Homecoming Mum or Garter!

You might be buying one for your child to give to their date, or maybe you’re treating your child to one! Here are some tips to get started:

Freshman Homecoming Mum

If you’re buying or making a homecoming mum for a Freshman, you need a Single Mum (meaning only 1 flower). The flower can be any size you like, as long as it’s just one! Check out my Basic Single Homecoming Mum, Deluxe Single Homecoming Mum, and Super Single Deluxe Homecoming Mum. My most popular choice for Freshmen is the Deluxe Single Homecoming Mum. Make sure it’s in school colors with a coordinating metallic color (silver or gold). A little accent color is also okay—think zebra, cheetah, or hot pink!

Sophomore Homecoming Mum

For a Sophomore, you’ll need a Double Mum (meaning 2 flowers). You can also opt for a Single Homecoming Mum if you prefer! Check out my Basic Double Homecoming Mum and Deluxe Double Homecoming Mum. The mum should be in school colors with a coordinating metallic color. Adding a little accent color is totally fine too! The Deluxe Double Homecoming Mum is the most popular choice here!

Junior Homecoming Mum

For a Junior, tradition calls for a Triple Homecoming Mum (meaning 3 flowers). I have three types of triples: Basic Triple Homecoming Mum, Deluxe Triple Homecoming Mum, and MEGA Triple Homecoming Mum. You can also go with a Deluxe Super Single Homecoming Mum or a MEGA Super Single Homecoming Mum. With Juniors, you can choose any size except a quad!

Senior Homecoming Mum

For a Senior, you can pretty much order whatever you want! The traditional choice is a Quad Homecoming Mum with 4 flowers, but my Mega Triple Homecoming Mums are super popular too! They’re almost the same size as a quad! You might also consider a Mega Quad Mum or a Deluxe Triple Homecoming Mum. Seniors often go for all white with either silver or gold, depending on school colors, and many add an accent color like hot pink or turquoise!

Homecoming Garters for All Classes

Homecoming garters are a little different! Freshmen typically stick with a Single Garter, while Sophomores might also choose a single. Juniors usually opt for a MEGA Single Homecoming Garter to signify their upperclassman status. Most Seniors will go for a MEGA Single Homecoming Garter, but the MEGA Double Homecoming Garter and MEGA Triple Homecoming Garter have gained popularity recently!

What to Put on Your Mum or Garter?

Now that you know what size to get, what do you want on it? How much is enough? Contrary to popular belief, no one will become a social pariah if they don’t have the biggest and best mum out there! You want something nice, but personal preference and budget will play a big role. First, decide what you can spend, then figure out what size and items are most important to you.

If you’re making your own mum or garter, check out our Make Your Own Homecoming Mum Kits that come with tons of items and EVERYTHING you need to create something amazing at a significant savings compared to craft stores!

If You’re Buying a Mum

1. FINDING A MUM MAKER: Look for a place that doesn’t nickel and dime you for every little trinket! Most mum makers I know (myself included) have a set price that includes many items and custom designs. You’ll get a better deal this way! Google homecoming mums and your school name to find local makers. If there aren’t any nearby, many offer shipping, including MelzMumz.com!

   
   

2. PUT THE NAMES ON IT: If a guy is giving it to a girl, put both names on it! I think it’s neat to include nicknames too!

   
   

3. RIBBON COLORS: Order the mum in school colors—EXCEPT for Seniors! Seniors usually get white and silver or white and gold. Many seniors add an accent color too!

   
   

4. GET A BOA: Just do it! Boas add so much flair for so little!

   
   

5. BELLS ARE A MUST: You want it to jingle and make noise!

   
   

6. TRINKETS AND SUCH: Customize it to suit the person wearing it! Add whatever sport they play or clubs they’re in. Get creative!

   
   

7. SPECIALTY RIBBONS: Printed, silk, metallics—these make a big difference! Try to have at least 3 or 4 printed ribbons and a few metallic ones!

   
   

8. BRAIDS AND LOOPS: They make the mum fuller and more visually appealing!

   
   

9. LOOK AROUND: Find pictures of mums you like! Don’t get overwhelmed! Most mum makers will work with you to create the perfect design.

   
   

GET CREATIVE! There aren’t too many things that are really "taboo" with the mum. Have fun with them! I pride myself on making my mums very custom to the person wearing it. For example, I once made a garter for a guy who loved hunting. I found a deer head that I "mounted" in the middle of the flower, starting a new trend!

If You’re Going to Make a Mum

As a mum maker myself, I want you to enjoy the experience! I suggest trying to make one during Freshman year since it’s typically a smaller single mum. These do take many hours to make, so be prepared to devote the time. The quality of the outcome depends on the time and focus you put into it!

Contrary to popular belief, it’s usually not cheaper to make one. Once you buy all the supplies at the local craft store, you might spend more than if you purchased one! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve overheard moms complaining about their trips to the store for more supplies!

MelzMumz.com offers complete Make Your Own Homecoming Mum kits with EVERYTHING you need to make an amazing mum or garter PLUS INSTRUCTIONS! These aren’t basic kits—they're packed full of stuff! Our kits will save you lots of $$$ compared to craft store prices!

Final Thoughts

I hope this helps provide insight and guidance! Good luck and enjoy your new Homecoming Mum experience!

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And as always, HAPPY MUMMING!

Melissa