Flowers (or some type of flora, at least) have been an integral part of wedding celebrations for as long as history has been recorded. Across different cultures and eras, flowers have carried deep meanings and symbolism, often chosen not just for their beauty but for their specific flower meanings. From ancient times, when brides carried herbs and spices to ward off negative energy, to the intricate language of flower meanings in the Victorian era, blooms have served as a silent way to express love, hope, and wishes for the future. Today, couples continue this tradition, using flowers with meaningful symbolism to convey their unique stories and emotions on their special day.
The earliest recorded evidence of a bride carried flowers/greenery on her wedding day dates back to ancient Rome. At that time brides would carry garlands of greenery and blooms, often roses or orange blossoms (which symbolizes fertility and good fortune).
And both ancient Greek and Roman brides carried garlic, herbs like rosemary and thyme, or spices to ward against evil spirits. The bride and groom also wore garlands of fresh herbs or ivy in their hair or around their necks, to symbolize new life, hope and fertility for the couple.
Historical Flower Traditions
Throughout history, flowers have held special significance in wedding ceremonies, with their meanings evolving across different cultures and traditions. From ancient herbs and garlands to the Victorian era’s coded messages, flower meanings have always added a deeper layer of symbolism to the celebration of love.
Celtic brides carried bouquets of ivy (eternal love), thistle (nobility, strength, resilience), heather (good luck, protection), and myrtle (love and marriage).
Photo Credit: Geraldine Dukes via Unsplash
In Middle Eastern weddings, popular flowers you’ll see in bouquets and other arrangements include jasmine (romantic love), red roses (passionate love and deep commitment), white roses (purity and innocence), lotus blossoms (journey of the soul), and olive branches (peace and harmony).
No one is quite sure when garlands evolved into hand held bouquets, but by the time Queen Victoria married Prince Albert, fresh, and fragrant, flowers were carried instead of the smelly herbs and spices. Favorite flowers change over the years but over time, certain flowers have assumed a coded identity. In Victorian times (mid to late 1800s) flowers held messages for those who knew the “code”.
As traditions evolved, different cultures embraced their own unique blooms, each carrying special meanings that continue to inspire modern weddings.
Flowers Meanings of Different Cultures
• Mexico: Marigolds (symbolizing life, death, purity, and prosperity)
Photo Credit: Ronin via Unsplash
• France and Spain: Lavender (devotion and love)
• China: Peonies (wealth, prosperity, beauty, peace, good fortune and a happy marriage), and Carnations (love and strength)
Today, while the coded messages of the Victorian era may not be as widely known, the meanings behind many popular wedding flowers remain an important consideration for couples.
Common Wedding Flower Meanings
The different flower meanings can help you choose which flowers to use in your bouquet, centerpieces, and other florals. So, if you want to convey a message with your wedding flowers, here are some popular wedding flowers and their meanings:
Baby’s Breath
Means “Everlasting Love”
Calla Lily
Means “Magnificent Beauty”
Carnation
Means “Devotion, Women’s Love (pink), Pure Love (white)”
Daisy
Means “Innocence”
Forget-Me-Not
Means “Remember Me”
Gardenia
Means “Secret Love”
Iris
Means “Passion”
Lily of the Valley
Means “Happiness”
Orchid
Means “Love and Beauty”
Peony
Means “Happy Marriage”
Red Rose
Means “Be Mine and I Love You”
Yellow Rose
Means “Friendship and Caring”
Pink Rose
Means “Admiration, Joy, and Gratitude”
Purple Rose
Means “Love at First Sight”
Oh, and the bridal bouquet at the top? It means Purity and Innocence (the White Roses), and Passion (the Orange Roses).
Choosing flowers with special meanings can add a deeper layer of significance to your wedding day, creating a beautiful way to express your love story. Whether you incorporate blooms that represent cherished memories or select flowers based on their timeless symbolism, each petal can convey a message that words alone can’t capture. So, take the time to explore the meanings behind your favorite flowers and let your wedding florals speak the language of love.
Ready to choose the perfect flowers for your wedding? Dive deeper into the meanings behind your favorite blooms and let them tell your unique love story! Share your thoughts or any flower meanings you love in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other wedding planning resources for more inspiration!
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean