Fresh flowers and arrangements are probably the most popular gifts in the world. After all, nothing brings a smile to the face of someone you care about like the sight of fresh, colorful and sweet-smelling flowers and plants. They connect us with nature and the outdoors, they are a delight to the senses and they remind us the sender every time we look at them! Flowers have long been the perfect non-verbal expression of our emotions, whether it be "I love you", "congratulations!" or a simple "hello."

Flowers Are Historically Significant

Flowers and herbs have been used for centuries for a variety of purposes. In fact, every culture has invested flowers with some kind of significance. In early Rome, for example, flowers were carried by brides in an attempt to ward off evil spirits and ensure fertility. In medieval Europe, floral nosegays and strong herbs were thought to protect the bearer from ill health, long before most people knew about germs and the spread of disease.

Flowers also marked every significant event in a person's life. As they are today, flowers have always been present at weddings, births and funerals. And although most people no longer believe that they ward off evil spirits, it widely thought that flowers have a positive impact on human emotions. As in the past, they delight us with their fragile beauty, and are a powerful symbol of enduring affection and optimism.

The Meanings Of Flowers

So, you want to give the gift of flowers. Do you know which flowers will accurately express your sentiments? While any fresh flowers and arrangements will be admired and appreciated, knowing the different traditional meanings of your flowers help you invest your bouquet with special significance. In Victorian times, the "language of flowers" was understood by lovers and friends everywhere, and communicating with flowers became a popular past time.

The red rose, for example, is the perfect symbol of romantic love. But, did you know that each rose color has its own meaning? The pink rose stands for perfect happiness, the white rose represents charm and innocence and the yellow rose expresses joy and gladness. The perfect flower for the child or teenager would be the lilac, lily or carnation. These flowers stand for youthful innocence. When you wish to express admiration of character, the gladiolus will do nicely. It was the flower of the Roman gladiators! Research the meanings of your fresh flowers and arrangements before sending them, and you will have fun explaining them to your recipient (unless, of course, your chosen flower is the gardenia, symbol of secret love!).

Fresh Flowers and Arrangements

Flowers can say it for you! And, there are almost as many ways to "say it with flowers" as there are to say it with words. Whether you put it together yourself, or have it done by a professional florist, your bouquet can be as expressive as your imagination will allow. If your fresh flowers and arrangements are intended to celebrate a special occasion, how about making it festive and colorful? Exotic floral designs allow you to mix and match creatively. Tulips, daffodils and crocus are lovely together, and when sent for the arrival of a new baby will be a great way to remind everyone of the renewal of life and hope that comes with each birth.

If someone you know is feeling a little down, or has experienced a loss, fresh flowers and arrangements can be a pick-me-up or expression of sympathy. In history, certain flowers have always been associated with serenity and peace, and would be just right for this purpose. Lilacs, orchids and lilies have a quiet dignity that expresses consolation. The Easter lily, in fact, has through the ages become one of the enduring symbols of suffering and renewal. Flowers have been used by humans to speak when the right words are hard to find.

Enjoy the Beauty of Flowers!

Flowers are truly a gift to us all, not just for the fact that they make wonderful gifts to give a friend or loved one, but in the fact that they are beautiful and fascinating examples of the powerful effect that nature has on all humans. Flowers can affect our moods, and delight our senses. They have the power to evoke images and youth, beauty and happiness, and they are enduring symbols of the renewal of life. Fresh flowers and arrangements can be an expression of your thoughts and feelings for these reasons and many more.