Gifting flowers on Valentine's Day is just a creation of modern day by Florists. The tradition actually started long before Florists were Florists. In this blog post from Main Street Floral Company, we're sharing some of the fun historical facts about the tradition of gifting Flowers on Valentine's Day.
As February 14th approaches, hearts (and sales for florists) begin to stir. But have you ever stopped to wonder how the tradition of exchanging vibrant bouquets on Valentine's Day came to be? It's a tale that stretches back centuries, weaving together mythology, romance, and the captivating language of flowers.
Love in Bloom: Seeds of a Tradition
While the origins of Valentine's Day remain shrouded in some mystery, its connection to blooming buds seems to have blossomed in the ancient world. The Romans associated roses with Venus, the goddess of love, and showered their temples with these fragrant symbols of passion. Later, during the Middle Ages, floral tributes took center stage in chivalric courts, with knights offering single blooms to their lady loves.
Floriography: Speaking Volumes with Stems
The 17th and 18th centuries saw the rise of "floriography," a secret language of flowers. Each blossom held a specific meaning, allowing lovers to express emotions unspoken, especially in the confines of Victorian etiquette. Red roses, with their fiery hue and intoxicating scent, naturally became synonymous with passionate love.
Charles II: The King with a Green Thumb
Some credit King Charles II of Sweden with popularizing the exchange of floral messages. Upon returning from Persia, enchanted by the country's rich tradition of floriography, he introduced the concept to his court. Soon, elaborate bouquets, each bloom carefully chosen to convey a secret sentiment, became commonplace.
Victorians & the Language of Love
In Victorian England, where emotions were often veiled, floriography reached its peak. A single red rose spoke volumes, while a dozen symbolized devotion. Pink roses denoted admiration, while yellow expressed friendship. White roses, pure and innocent, were perfect for budding romances. This floral code allowed shy admirers to express their hearts' desires without a single spoken word.
Blooming Businesses: The Rise of Professional Florists
As the demand for Valentine's Day bouquets grew, professional florists began to flourish. By the late 19th century, shops dedicated to the art of arranging and delivering blooms were popping up across the globe. These early floral entrepreneurs laid the foundation for the vibrant industry we know today.
From Tradition to Today: Main Street Floral Company's Legacy
Here at Main Street Floral Company in Battle Ground, WA, we carry the torch of this rich floral heritage. We are proud to be your local, independent florist, dedicated to crafting arrangements that speak the language of love on Valentine's Day and beyond. We believe that fresh flowers are more than just decorations; they are expressions of the heart, tokens of affection, and silent messengers of joy.
A Valentine's Day Bouquet Just for You
This year, let Main Street Floral Company help you make Valentine's Day truly unforgettable. Whether you're seeking a dozen classic red roses for your sweetheart, a vibrant mix of tulips for a dear friend, or a unique arrangement to express your deepest gratitude, our talented team can create the perfect floral masterpiece.
Visit our shop or browse our online selection to discover:
More than just Flowers: A Community of Love
At Main Street Floral Company, we are more than just a florist; we are your neighbors, your friends, and your trusted confidantes for all things floral. We are passionate about helping you celebrate life's special moments, big and small.
So, this Valentine's Day, let the tradition of love-in-bloom continue. Visit Main Street Floral Company and let us help you speak the language of flowers. Together, we can create a floral symphony that expresses the emotions words can't quite reach.
Happy Valentine's Day from your friends at Main Street Floral Company!