Whether you’re looking to mark a milestone, say thank you, or simply show someone you care, flowers are the ideal way to celebrate and commemorate life’s moments. A bouquet of fresh flowers not only brightens up both the recipient’s home and day but acts as a way to convey the emotions words often can’t.
With all flowers displaying inherent beauty, it can be challenging to decide on the right blooms for each occasion. Almost every flower has a unique meaning attached, with the language of flowers known as ‘floriography’. Introduced to Europe by writer and poet Lady Mary Wortley Montagu — who learned about the concept during her time in Turkey — in the early 18th century, floriography rose to popularity in Victorian England during the 19th century. Used to cryptically communicate both positive and negative messages, floriography has played a key role in informing the language of flowers we use today.
Although some of the more hyperspecific meanings (pink carnations symbolise gratitude, while yellow carnations indicate rejection) the Victorians used to guide their flower-giving may be lost on contemporary recipients, it can still be beneficial to use the language of flowers to inform your selection.
From anniversaries and birthdays to commemorating a promotion and beyond, these are our favourite flowers to gift for every occasion.
To say thank you
A beautiful bouquet of flowers can be a thoughtful way to say thank you. Eschew traditional arrangements and complex meanings in favour of bold and bright Australian natives. Well-suited to co-workers, family, and friends alike, colourful Australian natives enliven any space while their hardy nature ensures a longer lifespan.
To say ‘I love you’
A rose by any other name may smell just as sweet, but when it comes to hue; red is the way to go. There’s a reason red roses have endured as an almost universal symbol of love. Symbolising passion, beauty, and adoration, nothing says ‘I love you’ quite like a bouquet of red roses. The perfect way to mark an anniversary, reaffirm your affection or simply brighten up your lover’s day, red roses serve as a floral representation of your love.
Birthday bouquets
Blooms make for the perfect birthday gifts. Yellow roses symbolise friendship, making them an ideal choice for birthday bouquets. On their own, yellow roses are bright and bubbly while still being elegant. Pair them with playful sunflowers to make for a positively uplifting bouquet.
For mothers
Whether it’s Mother’s Day or not, appreciating the maternal figures in your life never goes amiss. Naturally, selecting her favourite flowers is the best port of call, however, failsafe options include sunflowers (which symbolise adoration), tulips (unconditional love), and mixed roses (we love a combination of pink and white).
To offer sympathy or condolences
When words fail, flowers can be a thoughtful way to show you care. When it comes to offering sympathy to the family of the deceased, white floral arrangements are best. White lilies are widely accepted as a token of condolence, representing the restoration of innocence to the departed soul. While white lilies work well on their own, they can also be paired with white roses for an elevated touch, with the latter symbolising loyalty, eternal love, and reverence.
Offering same- and next-day delivery across Australia, Mr Roses makes it easy to celebrate and commemorate life’s meaningful moments.
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Words by Esmé Duggan
Feature image courtesy of Steven Meisel for British Vogue
