A warm welcome into 2018! We’re about a month away to Valentine’s Day, the day where many lovebirds exchange cards, chocolates, gifts or flowers with their valentine.
Since we’re talking about flowers, do you know the meaning behind the red roses that you’re about to buy for that special someone? And of course, roses aren’t the only flowers available so it’s time to learn something new today!
1. Roses
Did you know that traditionally, roses are considered flowers of love? It’s equivalent to saying “I Love You” on Valentine’s Day. But what you may not be aware is the symbolic meaning behind the type, colour and even number of roses.
Fret not, we’re here to help.
Red roses
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The most common of them all would be red roses. It conveys deep emotions of love, longing or desire. It can also be used to convey respect, admiration or devotion. Other times, it may be used to signify heartfelt regret and sorrow.
And the number of stems you choose from represents something. Here are the more typical ones:
1 Single Rose – Love at first sight.
3 Roses – I love you!
6 Roses – I want to be yours. So if you’ve been dating someone for quite a while and you wish to take your relationship a step further, this is the perfect number to subtly express those feelings.
12 Roses – Will you be mine?
24 Roses – You’re always on my mind.
48 Roses – My love for you will never change.
99 Roses – I’ll love you till the day you die.
Too cheesy? We’re not even halfway done!
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Pink roses
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Second to red roses would be pink ones and it conveys gentle emotions such as joy, grace, gratitude, elegance and admiration.
If you want to go into the details, light pink roses are an indication of sweetness and innocence and darker shades of pink roses carry the idea of deep gratitude and appreciation. Sounds like the former is for a significant other while the latter are for mums!
And while a single red rose says “I love you”, a single pink rose actually means “I like you”. So choose them well to reflect your thoughts accurately.
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Blue roses
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If you haven’t already known, blue roses cannot be achieved naturally and they are a result of the absorbance of blue dye. Since they aren’t ‘natural’, they represent the unattainable or the mysterious and embody the desire for the impossible.
In short, it can represent this thought: “I can’t have you but I won’t stop thinking about you.”
A little something different for you to consider? But also take note that Valentine’s Day is the busiest period for florists all over the world so if you want nice roses to soak up the blue dye in time, do place your order in advance.
Mixed Roses
By mixing roses of different colours, you can create a whole new world of meanings.
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For example, a bouquet of red and white roses can mean “I love you intensely and my intentions are honourable.”
While a random mix of roses would convey mixed feelings or send this message: “I ain’t so sure about my feelings but I do know that I like you enough to send you something.”
2. Tulips
I hope you’re not starstruck after the lecture on roses. There’s actually more information to it but we managed to streamline it so it’s easier for you guys to digest.
Moving on, if you want something a little special instead of the common choice that most guys would pick for their princesses and queens, then this is an alternative.
Red Tulips
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It expresses the idea of being deeply in love and brings to mind passion and romance. Tulips are usually associated with an 11th wedding anniversary but if you just want to let her know you want to be with her for a long time and more, go for it!
Pink tulips
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It expresses happiness and confidence and would make a good choice if you’re congratulating a friend on a new job or promotion, not so much for a significant other.
Purple tulips
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So instead of pink ones, send her purple tulips. Behind the colour, purple represents meanings of royalty, extravagance, creativity, wisdom and peace. It can also be used to express admiration for a loved one’s accomplishments.
3. Carnations
This flower is usually associated with Mother’s Day, isn’t it? In fact, it’s considered the most versatile flower where you can give to your wife, girlfriend, mother, partner, friend, coworker, or anyone at all!
Red carnations
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Red carnations are a symbol of love and are used to express devotion, romance and affection. You will never go wrong with a basket full of deep red carnations to express your undying love.
Pink carnations
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They are often given by secret admirers. So if you’ve been watching that special someone from afar for quite some time now, sending her a lovely bouquet of pink carnations would do the trick.
These flowers also best describe a mother’s pure love for her children so it makes a great gift for mothers on Valentine’s Day. Come on, time to show some appreciation after all those years mum has slogged her guts out for you.
4. Gerberas
Okay, by now you should have gotten the idea of how red works. On a whole, it generally signifies passion and desire. It’s as if we can’t get enough of being fully immersed in love.
So let’s skip red gerberas and go for orange ones!
Orange Gerberas
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Choosing orange gerberas means that you’re associating your recipient with enthusiasm, energy and warmth. It can also mean that she’s the sunshine of your life! Use it to express your attachment with the person you’re gifting to.
What to avoid
You might want to keep away from sending bright yellow gerberas for Valentine’s Day because it signifies friendship instead of love.
Also try not to consider light pink gerberas which expresses admiration and sympathy. But if you’re sending it to a loved one who fell sick on Valentine’s Day, then go ahead because a bouquet of pink gerberas usually accompanies a ‘Get Well Soon’ message.
If you’re still as confused as ever, just head down to the nearest flower shop and chat up! Most florists will be able to advise you. Or just head over to an online website where most bouquets are already readily categorized to provide you a shopping-friendly experience.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
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