Symbolism In Full Bloom: Unraveling The Meanings Of Wedding Bouquet Flowers

Flowers have been used to express emotions and represent specific qualities for thousands of years, and each bloom carries its own unique meaning. Floriography, or the language of flowers, dates back to Victorian times, when flowers were used to express emotions that words and gestures could not.

Today, flowers are still used to inject subtle displays of affection into wedding days filled with grand gestures, allowing couples to share private messages with each other through their choice of blooms.

The meaning of colour in flower arrangements

The "language of flowers" dates back to Victorian times, when flowers were used to express emotions. Each colour has a different meaning and symbolism, which can be used to convey a message or sentiment.

Red flowers, especially roses, are most often associated with romantic love and passion. They can also convey respect, desire, strength, courage, and admiration.

Pink flowers represent playful, platonic love, happiness, innocence, gentleness, grace, and femininity.

Yellow flowers, such as daffodils, tulips, and sunflowers, symbolise joy, friendship, health, and new beginnings.

Blue flowers, like hydrangeas and cornflowers, promote peace, openness, relaxation, and intimacy with their serene and calming hues.

White flowers, including orchids, daisies, carnations, and roses, are linked to purity, innocence, sympathy, humility, and honesty. They also represent new beginnings and are often used in bridal bouquets and memorial services.

Orange flowers, such as marigolds and zinnias, are vibrant and bold, symbolising joy, warmth, enthusiasm, passion, and desire.

Purple flowers imply royalty, dignity, pride, success, and admiration. They also convey feelings of tradition and can be given to someone you respect or admire.

Green flowers, like bells of Ireland and Fuji mums, are rare and symbolise rebirth, renewal, good fortune, youthfulness, and good health. They are associated with nature and complement any other bloom in an arrangement.

When creating a flower arrangement, the colour of the flowers chosen plays a significant role in conveying the desired message and sentiment.

Floriography and the history of flower symbolism

Floriography, or the language of flowers, is a means of covert communication through the use and arrangement of flowers. Flowers have been used to express emotions and symbolise specific qualities for thousands of years, and nearly every sentiment can be expressed through them.

The practice of floriography dates back to the 19th century in Victorian England, North America, and France, where flowers were used to express feelings of romance and courtship that could not be spoken aloud. The tradition is said to have been influenced by the Turkish sélam, a game of gifting flowers and objects to send coded messages. French publishers began printing flower dictionaries in the early 19th century, and small "talking bouquets" or "word poesy" called nosegays or tussie-mussies became popular accessories.

The meaning of flowers is often derived from their appearance, behaviour, or cultural significance. For example, the mimosa, or sensitive plant, represents chastity because its leaves close at night or when touched. The red rose and its thorns have been used to symbolise both the blood of Christ and the intensity of romantic love. The number of petals on a rose can also carry significance; the five petals of a rose are thought to illustrate the five crucifixion wounds of Christ.

The colour of flowers can also alter their meaning. While a red rose symbolises passion, a white rose signifies purity, and a pink one stands for joy and admiration. Similarly, purple tulips are associated with royalty, while variegated shades are said to represent beautiful eyes.

Flowers have been used to convey a range of sentiments, from love and appreciation to resentment and anger. For instance, red chrysanthemums symbolise love, while white chrysanthemums signify loyalty and devoted love. Orchids represent love, luxury, beauty, and strength, and are also associated with virility and fertility in Ancient Greek mythology.

The practice of floriography continues today, with flowers often used to symbolise femininity, nature, and purity.

Flowers to avoid at weddings

Flowers are a key part of any wedding, from the bridal bouquet to the centrepieces. But while some blooms are steeped in meaning and symbolism, others are best avoided. Here are some flowers to steer clear of on your big day.

Tulips

Tulips are a tempting choice for a wedding, with their bright colours and graceful stalks. But they don't last long out of the ground, so they're likely to wilt before the day is over.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are fragile blooms that require constant hydration. They need to be in water at all times, so they're not a practical choice for bouquets or boutonnieres.

Daffodils

Daffodils are a beautiful choice for centrepieces or altar arrangements, but they can cause contact dermatitis or skin irritation, known as "daffodil itch". This can lead to a scaly rash on your hands, which is not what you want on your wedding day!

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums may be adorable, but they're one of the worst flowers for allergy sufferers due to their high pollen count. You might get away with them at an outdoor ceremony, but they're best avoided for indoor weddings.

Calla lilies

Calla lilies are a beautiful offshoot of the lily family, but they're incredibly toxic and possibly fatal if swallowed. So they're best avoided if you're going to have children or animals at the wedding.

Lilacs

Lilacs are another flower that wilts easily, so they're not ideal for bouquets.

Lilies

Most lilies have pollen that can stain and a fragrance that can be overwhelming.

Begonias

Begonias symbolise "beware", so they're not the best choice for a wedding!

Tansy

Tansy is associated with "hostile thoughts", so definitely one to avoid.

Of course, if a particular flower is sentimental to you, it's your big day, and you can always make exceptions. But it's worth considering the meaning and practicality of your floral choices to ensure your wedding flowers enhance your celebrations rather than detract from them.

Flowers that represent new beginnings

Flowers are a beautiful way to celebrate new beginnings and life's milestones. They speak volumes about fresh starts, hope, and renewal. Here are some flowers that represent new beginnings:

Daffodils

Daffodils are a symbol of new beginnings, rebirth, and the promise of renewal. Their bright yellow blooms herald the end of winter and the arrival of warmer, brighter days. They represent the resilience of nature and are often seen as a sign of good luck and prosperity. Daffodils are a perfect choice for occasions that celebrate new chapters and fresh opportunities.

Tulips

Tulips, especially red ones, signify perfect love. Purple tulips are associated with royalty, while variegated shades represent beautiful eyes. Tulips are a popular choice for springtime weddings and are often presented as a gesture of seeking forgiveness and starting anew.

White Roses

White roses are associated with new beginnings, purity, and humility. They are a popular choice for weddings and spiritual ceremonies, symbolising a fresh start and a farewell to the old. White roses are also used to convey sympathy and offer hope during times of loss.

Lilies

Lilies are often associated with significant life events and new chapters. White lilies, in particular, symbolise purity and are perfect for events like christenings or new business openings. The Calla Lily, with its elegant shape, represents magnificence and beauty, making it a wonderful choice for weddings or engagements.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums, also known as 'mums', are popular across various cultures for their vibrant blooms and rich symbolism. In Asia, they are celebrated for their ties to longevity and rejuvenation, and they are often associated with the end of the growing season, hinting at the cycle of rebirth and renewal. Chrysanthemums symbolise resilience, hope, and new beginnings.

Anemones

Anemones are enchanting flowers with delicate beauty and vibrant colours. They are believed to symbolise the cycle of life and death and the anticipation of new life. Anemones are a wonderful way to express excitement about the future and are perfect for marking significant changes and fresh starts.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers represent warmth, happiness, and longevity. Their radiant yellow petals are a universal symbol of joy and optimism, making them an emblem of hope and healing. Sunflowers are also associated with good luck and are believed to bring happiness and prosperity. They are a wonderful gift for someone recovering from illness or going through challenging times.

Peonies

Peonies are lush flowers that symbolise romance, prosperity, and good fortune. They are often associated with new beginnings and fresh starts, and their enchanting fragrance makes them a delightful addition to perfumes and potpourri. Peonies are a popular choice for weddings, especially in Chinese culture, where they represent wealth and honour.

Carnations

Carnations symbolise devotion, love, distinction, and fascination. White carnations, in particular, are associated with new beginnings, sending well wishes, and bringing good luck. They are an ideal choice for engagements, symbolising pure love and a bright future ahead.

Iris

The iris, with its captivating beauty and array of colours, stands as a symbol of hope, wisdom, and courage in new ventures. Its name derives from the Greek goddess Iris, a messenger who connected the gods to humanity. The iris encourages thoughtful decision-making and is an emblem of new beginnings and a bridge to future possibilities.

The most popular flowers for wedding bouquets

Flowers are a key part of any wedding, and choosing the right ones can be a difficult task. Many couples opt for flowers based on their significance and the message they convey, rather than just their aesthetic appeal. Floriography, or the language of flowers, dates back to Victorian times, when flowers were used to express emotions.

Roses are the most popular choice for weddings, symbolising love and romance. Red roses signify true love, while yellow represents friendship, and white alludes to innocence and humility. However, avoid deep crimson roses, as these signify mourning.

Peonies are another favourite, representing happiness and ambition. They are said to bring good fortune and a happy marriage, making them an ideal choice for a wedding. They come in a range of shades, including deep red and pink, and are usually in season from April to June.

Hydrangeas are also a popular choice for weddings, with their voluminous shape perfect for table landscapes and large arrangements. They are available in a variety of colours, including white, blue, and pink.

Tulips are a versatile flower, suitable for bouquets, boutonnieres, and table centrepieces. They symbolise consuming love and are available in a wide range of colours, making them a good match for most wedding themes.

Orchids have been a symbol of luxury, beauty, and love since the Victorian era. Pink shades, in particular, represent pure affection. They are available from April to September and are a good choice for beach or island weddings.

Calla lilies have a distinctive trumpet shape and sleek appearance, making them a popular choice for contemporary weddings. They are available in a range of colours, including white, cream, yellow, and pink, and can be sourced year-round.

Other popular choices include lilacs, with their loose organic shape perfect for a standout centrepiece or bouquet; sweet peas, which are delicate and exquisitely scented, ideal for a simple bridal bouquet; and anemones, with their striking black and white petals, perfect for a modern wedding.

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