In the 19th century, one of the best ways to send a personalized, meaningful message was through flowers. You see, there was a whole language of flowers. Each type of flower meant something particular, and each color of each variety could have a meaning all its own. Putting together a bouquet was a little like writing a letter, and all bouquets were carefully crafted messages, whether they were for a sweetheart, a funeral, or a wedding.
You can take advantage of the fact that flowers have such symbolic meanings to send a message with flowers. Even though most people don’t know the meanings of all the flowers today, you can still craft a Victorian-style message bouquet for a friend or loved one using these ideas.
First off, you can use the actual meanings of flowers if you explain them in a note that goes along with your flowers. It’s not quite the same as it would have been for a Victorian flower-sender since the message would have been implicit then. It can still be a lovely gesture, though. Plus, your message explaining the meanings of the flowers will allow the receiver to understand what you’re trying to say, and the message will last long after the flowers are gone.
Another way to send a message with flowers is to rely on the types of feelings that most flowers will still bring up in people. Daisies, for instance, are usually a very cheerful flower, so they make a great get well gift. Red roses still have a meaning carried over from two centuries ago: romance. Sending red roses to a woman is a surefire way to let her know that you’re interested in her or that you find her attractive. Thinking about what types of flowers you’re sending before you send them can really help you get your message across.