In an age where every detail of a wedding is curated with meaning, one enchanting tradition is quietly blooming once more—floriography, the language of flowers. While it may sound like a whisper from the past, this Victorian-era custom is inspiring modern couples to weave hidden messages of love, loyalty, and legacy into their floral choices.
What is Floriography?
Floriography is the poetic art of assigning meaning to flowers and foliage. In the 19th century, when propriety often prevented people from openly expressing their feelings, lovers turned to bouquets to say what words could not. A single bloom could speak volumes: a red rose confessed passion; a sprig of rosemary pledged remembrance.
Why It Matters Today
Though the term “floriography” may be unfamiliar to many, its principles are more relevant than ever. In a world leaning into intentionality and storytelling, today’s couples are seeking ways to personalise their day in ways that feel authentic and emotionally rich. What better way to do that than through the very blooms that surround them on their most romantic day?
Luxury Meets Meaning
For the luxury couple, it’s not just about beautiful flowers—it’s about meaningful florals. A carefully designed bouquet can reflect the arc of a love story, a tribute to family heritage, or even a whisper of private sentiments shared between partners.
Here are a few timeless blooms and what they can express:
Roses – The ultimate symbol of love and passion. But did you know that different colours say different things? White for innocence, deep red for desire, blush pink for admiration.
Lilies – Long associated with purity, renewal, and devotion. Ideal for a couple beginning a new life with deep-rooted values.
Peonies – Often chosen for their lush, romantic beauty, they also symbolise a happy marriage and prosperity.
Sweet Peas – Represent blissful pleasure and goodbyes, perfect for the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
Forget-Me-Nots – A delicate reminder of eternal love and remembrance.
Modern Interpretations of an Old-World Romance
At Flowers by Anya, we work closely with couples to incorporate this “secret language” into bespoke arrangements—from bridal bouquets to table centrepieces. Some brides select flowers based on the seasons of their relationship, others choose tributes to loved ones through symbolic blooms. The result is floristry that goes beyond beauty—florals that speak.
Final Thought:
Floriography reminds us that flowers are more than decoration—they’re emotion, memory, and meaning made tangible. For the discerning couple, every petal can be part of the story they tell on their wedding day.
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