THE SECRET LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS: UNVEILING THE ART OF FLORIOGRAPHY
Ever wondered how a simple bunch of flowers can speak volumes about your feelings, thoughts and emotions? Not to blow our own trumpet but here at Common Love we're not just experts in creating stunning bouquets. We also love delivering hidden messages with flowers, adding an extra touch of meaning and indulgence to every bouquet we curate. Welcome to the enchanting world of floriography—the secret language of flowers that has captivated hearts for centuries. Want to learn how it all works and join in the fun of decoding hidden messages in flowers?
Here’s everything you need to know about the secret language of flowers.
THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS
Floriography has a rich history that spans across cultures and time. From Ancient Egypt, Peru, Africa and Asia, flowers have been revered as religious symbols and interwoven with mythologies. However, it was during the Victorian era that floriography emerged as a covert means of communication, allowing individuals to express emotions that couldn't be openly shared.
The subtlety of flowers provided an elegant way to convey innermost thoughts without uttering a single word. Each flower, arrangement and presentation style carried a specific message, creating a hidden language known only to a select few. In fact, floriography became so popular during this era that numerous flower dictionaries were published. Guides covered everything from the symbolism behind each bloom, the meaning of flower arrangements and explaining the correct presentation of bouquets to ensure messages were accurately conveyed.
FLORIOGRAPHY TODAY
Times certainly have changed and we’re much more open about expressing ourselves. Saying ‘I love you’ or telling someone you’re thinking of them is as easy as sending a heart emoji or liking their latest social media post. But it’s precisely the instantaneous and convenient nature of today’s communication that makes receiving a bouquet filled with secret meaning undeniably magical. In a sea of emojis and quick messages, a thoughtfully coordinated bouquet stands out and makes a lasting impression on the recipient.
FLOWERS AND THEIR MEANING
Whether you're offering a heartfelt apology, wishing someone congratulations or celebrating everlasting love, flowers have an uncanny way of melting hearts and creating cherished memories. Here are some of our most popular flowers and the meaning they carry.
ROSES
When it comes to the language of flowers, it’s universally known that roses are the epitome of romance. But they’re actually more nuanced than they may seem. Velvety red roses symbolise passionate love and devotion that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, while pink roses convey grace, admiration and appreciation. White roses are all about purity and innocence, making them ideal for new beginnings or as gestures of sympathy. Yellow roses radiate warmth, optimism and companionship, great for surprising your bestie with a gift that brings sunshine and love.
The number of roses you select also sends a sharp message. A single rose says love at first sight or single-minded devotion and a dozen roses tell your special someone that they’re your one and only. When you’re ready to take your relationship to the next level, six roses expresses deep admiration and desire. For our hopeless romantics, 24 roses represent undying adoration and that you’ve been thinking about the recipient 24/7!
TULIPS
Like roses, tulips are also messengers of love. Red tulips represent deep affection and romance, while pink tulips express warmth, care and fondness. For a thoughtful get-well gift, yellow tulips symbolise hope, support and good wishes.
HYDRANGEAS
Hydrangeas, with their lush clusters of blossoms, are gorgeous flowers on their own and as part of a colourful bouquet. In Japanese culture, hydrangeas are associated with sincerity and gratitude, and often featured in weddings or gifted with thanks. In China, they symbolise abundance and prosperity, making them a wonderful choice for congratulatory presents. Hydrangeas bloom during the rainy season and have also come to represent resilience and perseverance. If there’s a friend who’s going through a rough patch, a bunch of hydrangeas are sure to brighten their day!
LILIES
Lilies are commonly recognised for their spirituality and purity, and are frequently seen in religious ceremonies. With their pristine petals, white lilies evoke serenity, tranquillity and rebirth. They’re commonly used at weddings and funerals to signify rebirth and new chapters. Red or pink lilies exude femininity and admiration, making them a fabulous alternative to roses. For a gift that shows someone you're thinking of them, orange or yellow lilies convey confidence, joy and friendship
SUNFLOWERS
Sunflowers represent warmth, joy and friendship. They symbolise positivity and their vibrant yellow shade just oozes happiness. When you want to brighten someone's day or show them how much you cherish their friendship, a bouquet of sunflowers is like a big, warm hug captured in a flower!
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DAHLIAS
Bursting with personality, dahlias signify inner strength, creativity and elegance. These flowers embrace individuality and encourage self-expression, making them the perfect graduation gift. From passionate love to graciousness, dahlias also represent a range of meanings through their various shades. Where red dahlias mean enduring strength, pink and purple dahlias conjure up images of generosity, commitment and femininity. Send these flowers to the women in your life on Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or their birthday as the ultimate dedication for everything they do for you!
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Orchids, with their exotic and intricate beauty, exude elegance, luxury and refined charm. Representing strength, grace and rare beauty, orchids make a statement of admiration and appreciation. Orchids come in a variety of shades and each one carries its own special meaning. Classic white orchids represent purity and reverence, pink orchids convey grace and affection, while purple orchids bring a sense of luxury, admiration and enchantment.
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STILL NOT SURE WHAT TO PICK?
Still unsure about which flowers and arrangement will best represent your thoughts? Don't even sweat it! Simply let us know the message or emotion you want to convey, and our dedicated team will curate a bouquet inspired by your deepest feelings. Contact us today or visit our store in Bowery Lane to discover how the language of flowers can transform your heartfelt sentiments into a breathtaking floral masterpiece.
FRESH FLOWERS COLLECTIONS
