At Waller Homecoming, Mum is the Word

Written by Creighton Holub in Football,Homecoming,Waller High School

A Waller Bulldog cheerleader's homecoming mum hangs on the football stands while she cheers on the team during the 2022 season. The tradition of making unique and visuallying interesting mums and garters for Texas high school homecoming games and dances has gotten bigger every year. (photo courtesy RoninVisuals.com)

The 2024 Waller Homecoming game is relatively early this football season. Currently scheduled for the third week of the 2024 campaign on Friday, Sept. 13, there is considerably less time for Bulldog families to get ready for the big Homecoming Dance.

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What Are Homecoming Mums?

Homecoming mums are oversized corsages worn during high school homecoming events. They’re typically made of silk flowers, ribbons, and decorative trinkets. These eye-catching accessories are often as big as a student’s head and can weigh several pounds!

The student section at Waller ISD Stadium gets excited during the Homecoming game, Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. (Photo courtesy RoninVisuals.com)
The student section at Waller ISD Stadium gets excited during the Homecoming game, Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. (Photo courtesy RoninVisuals.com)

Origins and Evolution

The tradition of homecoming mums dates back to the 1930s, but it really took off in Texas during the 1950s. Originally, they were simple chrysanthemum corsages exchanged between couples during homecoming dances. Over time, they transformed into elaborate displays that celebrate school spirit, friendship and community.

Each mum and garter can be as different as the colors of the rainbow, and that's to be expected as mums reflect every individual's personality. (courtesy RoninVisuals.com)
Each mum and garter can be as different as the colors of the rainbow, and that’s to be expected as mums reflect every individual’s personality. (courtesy RoninVisuals.com)

Texas-Sized Creativity

We Texans take their mums seriously! Customization is key, and no two mums are alike. Students personalize them with their school colors, mascots, and symbols. Some even incorporate LED lights, bells, and miniature cowbells. The bigger, the better seems to be the motto!

Homecoming mums are about individuality, especially senior year mums! Anything from initials, to personal favorites and extracurricular activities can be incorporated into your mum or garter. (courtesy RoninVisuals.com)
Homecoming mums are about individuality, especially senior year mums! Anything from initials, to personal favorites and extracurricular activities can be incorporated into your mum or garter. (courtesy RoninVisuals.com)

The Mum Exchange

During homecoming week, students exchange mums and garters – which the guys would wear around their biceps – as a sign of friendship and camaraderie. It’s a heartwarming tradition that fosters connections among classmates.

Some of the 2024 Waller cheerleaders show off their giant homecoming mums at Waller ISD Stadium, Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. (Photo courtesy RoninVisuals.com)
Some of the 2024 Waller cheerleaders show off their giant homecoming mums at Waller ISD Stadium, Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. (Photo courtesy RoninVisuals.com)

Where to Get Your Mum

Several businesses specialize in creating custom homecoming mums. For example:

• Mom’s Family Florist: Based in Waller, they offer high-quality, unique designs that leave a lasting impression. You can visit them in person at 2611 Washington Street, Waller, TX, or their website (click here).

• Mumtastic: Located in Conroe, they’ve been making mums since 1995. You can visit them in person at 1111 League Line Rd Suite 155, Conroe, TX 77303, or their website (click here).

• Make your own! The majority of Waller High School parents and graduates we spoke with said they have made a tradition of making their own with supplies from local stores’ crafting supply sections or hobby-focused specialty stores.

Memories Woven

Whether you’re a native Texan or new to the tradition, homecoming mums are a delightful way to celebrate school spirit, friendship, and community. So, next time you see a massive mum, remember the creativity, love, and memories woven into those ribbons and flowers!

Where to find more information about Homecoming mums, check out Texas Highways Magazine.

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