Valentine's Day Roses

When we think of Valentine's Day, we think of roses. Bunches of picture perfect red roses waiting to be bought at florists around the world, they adorn many a Valentine's card and are incorporated in to cuddly keepsakes.

During our research into the Language of Flowers recently, it is easy to see why they have become the symbol of Valentine's Day. Red roses in the 1800's were sent to a loved one to communicate their passion, their desire, and to declare that what they felt was certainly true love. As if that was not enough to win over the recipient, it also spoke of the senders readiness for commitment.

We were left wondering where this symbolism came from. As we said in our last blog, meanings often developed from the root meaning of the flower name, it's medicinal properties or myths and legends. In Greek mythology, the red rose was linked to Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love. The story goes that when Aphrodite saw her lover, Adonis, wounded by a wild boar, a mixture of her tears and his blood produced a beautiful red rose bush when they hit the ground.

In Roman times, the creation of red roses was linked to Venus, the Goddess of Love. Venus cut her ankles running through a thorn bush to her lover Adonis. It was said that her blood turned into blooming red roses wherever it fell.

It is no surprise then that the red rose is a great choice for a card and gift in February, but with this popularity comes a familiarity with many feeling that they are a cliche and are often looking for alternatives.

According to the 'Language of Flowers', each shade of rose has a different meaning. If you are looking beyond the red rose to send a message to the object of your affection this year, why not consider a few of these alternatives... 

There is a reason that white roses are often found in a bridal bouquet. For many in the Victorian era, they were the symbol of everlasting, unconditional love and eternal loyalty. They are the perfect flower to symbolise a young love or new beginnings.

When red roses speak of passion and yellow of friendship, orange roses brings those two qualities together. Symbolising these qualities, they are a great alternative to the classic red rose. Orange blooms can be used to say that what you feel is far more than friendship and you want a deeper connection. They are also a great choice for a couple who have been together a while but whose beginnings stemmed from being friends first.

These striking roses are traditionally linked with royalty because of their colour and this beautiful flower certainly makes a statement. Because of their rare and unique colour, they are seen as magical and communicate that the sender is enchanted with the object of their affection and overcome with feelings of adoration and love. To send a bouquet of lavender flowers was certainly done to make an impact, a lavender bouquet is made to stand out amongst the many others the lady may receive and be unforgettable.  

The classic yellow rose used to signify feelings of jealousy but have later come to stand for friendship. However, yellow roses with red tips communicate that the sender is falling in love - the perfect choice for a new relationship this Valentine's Day.  

While this shade does not speak of passion and yearning, a pale pink rose communicates the senders joy and happiness to have their loved one in their life.    They are a flower of grace and elegance and convey the more gentle emotions of admiration and gratitude.  

 

Let us know what colour you will be choosing this Valentine's...

 

Until next time x