Help! I Have to Get a Homecoming Mum!

Let's say your son comes home after school one day and says, "Mom, I need a mum for homecoming" and you respond, "What???" So you Google homecoming mums and they look nothing like you remember homecoming mums when you were in high school or you grew up in a state that's not Texas and you don't even know what he's talking about. When you do Google, you can't believe what you are seeing.

Here are some things to consider when buying or making a homecoming mum. Bear in mind that none of these are set in stone rules and homecoming mums should reflect the personality and interests of the wearer.

What grade is the wearer in?
I recommend a flower per grade, one flower for freshman, two for sophomores, three for juniors and save the big quad for senior year.

What colors should I choose?
Traditionally you choose school colors. Recently, mums in fashion colors like Tiffany blue or hot pink are popular. Seniors wear white and gold or silver.

Consider the personality, interests and activities of the wearer. 
The decor of the the mum is what makes the mum unique.
The personality and activities of the wearer should dictate which trinkets and decorations are put on the mum. What if you haven't had the pleasure of meeting the wearer? Ask your son what he thinks. The very first mum I ever made, I made for a girl that I never laid eyes on, not even at the homecoming game. After that, I simply asked my sons what they thought I should put on the mum.
There certainly are a few trinkets that are "givens" such as class, homecoming and school spirit. Outside of that, the sky is the limit. I have seen some really clever themed mums. One year, I decided to make the girlfriend mums fun and even interactive by putting toys and non-melting candy on them.
Another factor to consider is the wearer's size. My middle son's girlfriend was 4'9" so I customized her mum by making ribbon streamers 30" instead of the standard 36".

Lastly
Cost is a factor
Making or buying a mum can be expensive, but they don't have to break the bank. If you are making a mum, use those craft store coupons that are available on smart phone apps. You can branch out beyond the homecoming mum supply display. Look at scrapbooking supplies or go to the dollar store. When you are buying a mum from a mum maker, just ask what their most economical mum is and find out if it's possible to add some unique items to make it stand out.