Everyone knows that roses represent love, but in the Victorian Era, the possibilities for symbolism were limitless.
Everything in a bouquet had a special meaning, from the flowers, the ribbon, and even which hand you held it with.
While these things may seem very distant from everyday life, they can actually be extremely helpful. I mean, let’s face it, clear communication can be tricky! Life would be a lot easier if we could avoid pesky things like “conversations,” wouldn’t you agree? If so, here’s a quick rundown of Victorian flower arranging all your 21st-century needs:
If you want to confess your undying love for someone, send pink camellias for longing, daisies for loyalty, and baby’s breath for everlasting passion. Of course, you get extra points if you write a beautiful love letter by candlelight, but the bouquet is a start.
Many things in life are challenging, but one of the worst is having to reject someone. If you want to respond kindly, send them striped carnations for refusal and arborvitae for unchanging friendship, placing them firmly in the friendzone. If, you’re thinking something a little more punchy, combine geraniums and orange lilies, representing stupidity and hatred.
For a melodramatic and possibly criminal bouquet (?), go for cabbage (cash), oleander (beware!), and birdsfoot trefoil (my revenge). Declaring war has never been easier, just sneak tansies into your
enemy’s locker!
Lastly, the perfect “girl in red?” bouquet: green carnations (queerness), savory (interest), and hawthorn (hope).
Enjoy all of your flower arranging! Just remember to check for any pollen allergies before starting.