Flowers are a universal symbol of beauty, warmth, and celebration. From birthdays to weddings, anniversaries to funerals, flowers have the power to enhance any event or commemoration. 

However, with so many varieties of blooms to choose from, deciding on the right flowers can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we will break down the most popular flowers for any occasion and what each one symbolizes so you can select flowers perfectly tailored for your specific occasion. 

Weddings

 For weddings, classic bridal bouquets usually contain white or light-colored blooms like roses, peonies, calla lilies, hydrangeas, or tulips. You can also mix in greenery like baby’s breath to add texture. The bridal party typically carries bouquets that coordinate but with slightly bolder or darker colors to complement the bride. Centerpieces at wedding receptions traditionally use the bridal bouquet flowers or blooms that match the time of year. The best flowers for weddings that symbolize love, luck, and new beginnings are roses, tulips, and lilacs are popular.

Birthdays

For birthday flower arrangements, pick the celebrant’s favorite flowers if you know them. Otherwise, opt for bright, cheerful blooms to match the joyous mood. Gerbera daisies, carnations, sunflowers, and roses all make lively birthday bouquets. Pastel colors like pinks and yellows also feel festive for the occasion. You can augment the arrangement with decorative birthday basics like balloons or a “Happy Birthday” banner.

Anniversaries

Anniversary flowers

For anniversary flowers, select blooms that symbolize the number of years together. For example, the 1st anniversary is paper or everlasting flowers, the 5th is tulips or lilies of the valley, 10th is chrysanthemums or roses. If you don’t know the year, opt for romantic reds like roses or peonies. Orchids also convey luxury, love, and longevity and can be the best flowers for celebration. Consider adding a meaningful card or bouquet to commemorate the special relationship.

Get Well Soon

Opt for eye-catching flowers when cheering someone up who’s sick or recovering. Brighten their space with cheery blooms in sunny hues like daisies, tulips, or yellow roses. Avoid dark, heavy flowers and foliage that could feel oppressive in a healing environment. Also, steer clear of flowers with strong fragrances which could irritate. A mixed bouquet with greenery can add texture and lifts spirits.

Condolences

Sympathy Flower

For mourning, choose simple blooms and keep arrangements minimal and understated. Stargazer lilies, calla lilies, and roses often symbolize sympathy. Other soothing options include orchids, peonies, irises, or lilies. All-white designs usually feel most respectful. Consider adding a memorial card with your message of support. Avoid red blooms which can imply celebration.

General Goodwill

For dropping off flowers as a friendly pick-me-up or hostess gift, focus on what’s currently in season for maximum freshness. Mixes of tulips, daffodils, iris, or poppies capture spring’s vibrancy. Summer may feature cheerful sunflowers, snapdragons, or lavender. Fall lends itself to chrysanthemums, asters, or roses. To suit all-year tastes, classic staples like carnations, gerberas, or mixed herb bouquets work well.

Consider the recipient’s style

If you know the person favors minimal, modern aesthetics, choose a pared-back design from your local Wilmette florist using all one type of bloom. Those who love bold, romantic floral displays would appreciate a full, lush arrangement. Look for cues from the decor in their home for guidance on their preferred style.

With some contextual awareness of the occasion to give flowers and creative matching of symbolic blooms to each situation, you can’t go wrong with the perfect floral gift. 

Brighten someone’s day with beautiful bouquets from Morning Glory Flower Shop, a Glenview florist. Choose the perfect flowers for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because – order today!