While all (most) flowers are really gorgeous, have you ever wondered if flowers have something to say beyond their beauty?
When creating arrangements, the language of flowers is something that we keep at the back of our minds, especially when suggesting flowers to our customers. While I don't place extra emphasis on ensuring that a bouquet has 9 red roses to symbolise eternal love, I wouldn't suggest sending red roses during mothers' day, or include white lilies for a get well soon bouquet.
In this week's post, I'll be sharing an infographic we created about 5 common flowers that we use in our arrangements, and the subtle messaging behind them!
Roses
Roses are the undisputed ambassadors of romance, but their language goes far beyond simply saying “I love you.” Red roses, with their deep, velvety petals, are synonymous with passion and deep affection, making them the perfect choice for anniversaries and declarations of love. Meanwhile, pink roses offer a gentler expression, evoking admiration, gratitude, and sweetness, ideal for showing appreciation or celebrating a blossoming romance. White roses carry connotations of purity, innocence, and new beginnings, making them popular in weddings and as symbols of respect and remembrance. Even yellow roses have their own nuanced meaning, often representing friendship and warmth—though in some traditions they can hint at jealousy, context is key. This rich palette of meanings ensures that roses can be tailored to virtually any occasion, turning a simple bouquet into a carefully crafted message of the heart.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are a study in lush abundance and gentle eloquence. Their dense clusters of blossoms convey a feeling of gratitude and understanding, making them ideal for expressing thanks or offering comfort during challenging times. Depending on the color, hydrangeas can take on even more nuanced meanings: blue varieties are often associated with deep sincerity and apology, while pink hydrangeas tend to evoke sentiments of heartfelt emotion and grace. Their full, rounded shapes suggest a sense of prosperity and abundance, which is why they’re often chosen for milestone celebrations or moments when you want to offer a sincere “I’m here for you.” With their timeless beauty and understated charm, hydrangeas are the perfect way to add a touch of sophistication and care to any thoughtful gesture.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are the embodiment of sunshine in floral form. Their large, vibrant faces and bold yellow petals naturally exude energy, loyalty, and a zest for life. Much like their namesake, these blooms have a remarkable way of brightening up even the gloomiest days, making them a favorite for lifting spirits and spreading joy. They symbolize unwavering loyalty, as sunflowers famously follow the sun, and their robust, cheerful presence makes them perfect for celebrating achievements, cheering up a friend, or simply sharing a dose of positive energy. Whether gifted during a celebratory moment or as a spontaneous reminder of happier times, sunflowers bring an unmistakable warmth and optimism to any setting.
Tulips
Tulips offer a refined blend of simplicity and elegance, with each color unveiling its own unique story. Red tulips passionately declare love and desire, making them a timeless choice for romantic gestures. Yellow tulips, on the other hand, burst with cheerful energy and optimism, symbolizing joy and a strong sense of hope—perfect for marking new beginnings or brightening someone’s day. White tulips embody purity and grace, often used to convey forgiveness or to honor new starts with a sense of calm sophistication. With their graceful cup-shaped blooms and associations with the rebirth of spring, tulips are versatile enough to serve as both a subtle, thoughtful gesture or a bold statement of affection, depending on the mood you want to set.
Peonies
Peonies are the epitome of lush, luxurious beauty and carry an air of indulgence and prosperity. Their full, ruffled blooms evoke a sense of opulence and romance, making them a standout choice for moments that call for a grand celebration. In many cultures, peonies are seen as symbols of honor, wealth, and even good fortune, which is why they’re often featured in wedding bouquets and high-end floral arrangements. Their soft yet lavish appearance makes them ideal for milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion where you want to add a touch of extravagance and heartfelt celebration. Peonies invite you to embrace a moment of lavish beauty, turning any gift into a memorable and cherished experience.
Each of these flowers brings its own distinctive voice to the table, allowing you to tailor your message to the occasion. By understanding the deeper meanings behind these blooms, you can create a gift that’s not only visually stunning but also rich with personal significance—truly a language of love, care, and celebration spoken in petals and fragrance.