Floral Symbolism

Flowers have captivated humanity for millennia, their vibrant colours and delicate scents sparking not just aesthetic appreciation but also symbolic interpretations. 

The earliest recorded use of floral symbolism can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Egyptians associated lotus flowers with rebirth, while Greeks and Romans linked roses with love. These associations weren't merely decorative; they wove flowers into the fabric of myths, rituals, and cultural beliefs.

The Victorian era saw the rise of "floriography," a coded language where specific flowers and arrangements conveyed hidden messages. During a time when social etiquette often restricted open displays of affection, floriography offered a subtle yet powerful way to express emotions. A single red rose whispered, "I love you," while a tulip could signify passion or perfect love.

Nosegays, single flowers or small bouquets became a subtle way of flirting, with the primary flower representing the unspoken words. Equally, the way someone accepted the bouquet indicated their response. If held downwards, it was a hard no, but if held at heart level, it meant they liked what they saw — This was, perhaps, the original precursor to a modern day swipe right.

A single flower conveyed a direct message, with the meaning associated with that flower, while a bouquet implied more complex emotions (or messaging), with each flower carrying its own meaning. Responding to the gift with a yellow carnation was the latter day equivalent of blocking someone; it represented the ultimate symbol of rejection.