Flower Etiquette

Learn more about the Etiquette when you give away flowers.

Did you know that flowers are among the most frequently given gifts worldwide? Not surprising, because a bouquet fits every occasion. You have known for a long time that you declare your love with red roses. But what about flower etiquette, for example in the theater, at a wedding or funeral? And what can you do or not do better? Read on quick....
Ballerina with flowers

FLORAL EQUETTE - IN THE THEATER

It is very common to put the player (s) musicians and director in the spotlight after a performance, but certainly not before the performance! According to superstitions, that would bring bad luck. The procedure for handing out flowers is simple: while the players bow, the flowers are distributed. The players receive the bouquet and raise it. As soon as the curtain falls, they take it to the dressing room.

And what about throwing flowers on the stage after a performance in the theater or theater? This token of appreciation, best known from (old) films, we don't see this often anymore. Moreover, it is not allowed in all theaters, so check in advance whether it is allowed. The general rule is: don't overdo it and be careful. Throw at most one flower, preferably a red rose, towards the feet of the player (s).

FLORAL EQUETTE - AT A WEDDING

It is common for the bride to hold a bridal bouquet during a wedding ceremony. This bouquet is handpicked by the groom according to etiquette and given the moment he picks up his wife. It is also common for the bride to carry the bouquet in her right hand prior to the wedding ceremony. Once married, she carries the bouquet in her left hand.

In addition to a bridal bouquet, there are of course the corsages. According to the etiquette rules, the groom wears a corsage with flowers that are incorporated in the bridal bouquet. The corsage should be pinned on the left. Do the guests wear boutonniere? These should also be pinned to the left. Men wear the corsage upright, so with the stem down. Women pinned the mini-bouquet the other way round, so with the stem upwards. Would you like to read more about flowers at a wedding? View our collection of Bouquets for a wedding party.

FLORAL EQUETTE - AT A FUNERAL

Flowers have played an important role at funerals and funerals for several centuries. This because of their beauty, symbolism and comforting properties. Although calm and neutral colors are often chosen, there are no strict rules for flowers that you may or may not give at a funeral. Perhaps the deceased had a favorite flower or color? Or is there a general wish about flowers? It is especially important that you let your feelings speak when putting together a funeral bouquet or funeral piece. That makes the final tribute even more personal. In our Funeral flowers,section, you can read more about what flowers can mean in the event of a death.

FLORAL ETIQUETTE - IN LOVE

The floral etiquette for a person in love is to traditionally give red roses. Red roses symbolize love and passion and are the most popular choice for declaring love or celebrating a birthday or anniversary. The number of roses you give can also have a meaning. For example, one rose represents unity, three roses represent "I love you" and twelve roses represent "I want to spend the rest of my life with you".

If you are looking for a different flower that symbolizes love, other choices are also available such as:

Carnations: Symbolize love for someone far away.

Lilies: symbol of innocence, joy and love

Tulip: symbolizes a first love.

Orchids: symbolize refinement and delicate beauty and indicate that you value someone in a special way

Daffodils: symbolize honor and esteem and indicate that you admire someone

It is important to remember that floral etiquette is not strict and the flowers you choose are the message you want to convey, so feel free to choose flowers that you or the person you love likes.

FLORAL ETIQUETTE - WHEN YOU VISIT

Flower etiquette for visiting varies depending on the culture and country you are in. In some cultures it is customary to bring flowers as a gift when you visit someone. In other cultures it is not customary to bring flowers as a guest.

When you bring flowers as a gift, it is important to take into account the personal preference of the recipient. For example, if you know that the person is allergic to certain flowers or does not like a specific flower, it is wise to choose an alternative.

In general, it is recommended to choose a bouquet with a number of flowers instead of a single flower, as this is often seen as more valuable. It is also important to give the flowers in a beautiful vase or flower pot, so that the recipient can place them immediately and enjoy the flowers.

If you are going to visit someone and you know that flowers are not wanted in the culture, it is wise to bring something else as a gift or to simply come empty-handed without flowers as a gift.

It is important to consider the recipient's cultural differences and preferences before bringing flowers as a gift.

FLOWERS AND ALLERGIES.

There are flowers that contain substances that cause allergies less often than other flowers. Below is a list of flowers that are often considered less allergenic flowers:

  • Gerberas
  • Chrysanthemums
  • Lilies
  • Orchids
  • Carnations
  • Iris
  • Roses
  • Iris
  • Tulips

Just keep in mind that everyone reacts differently to flowers and that even the above flowers can still cause allergic reactions in some people. It is therefore always best to ask the recipient's preference or inquire about any allergies.