Tussie–Mussies For Valentine

EVERY flower is unique to its beauty. All flowers have something to say about themselves. The individual types of flowers and flower colors express specific ‘flower sentiments’ and ‘flower meanings’.

The evolution of a subtle language of flowers developed in many cultures, in Victorian times it became known as floriography, in Chinese feng – chui, Japanese hanakotoba, and the Turkish selam, a rhyming language of objects that represent sentiments. Each herb, flower, and tree was assigned a symbolic meaning based on its appearance, fragrance, or associations.

Victorians were staunch believers in the power of message through flowers. They equated the knowledge or usage of flowers per se with being well dressed and well groomed.

  Although not so popular today, the concept is still very much in use as it provides the impetus to silently and colorfully convey whatever emotions someone is feeling and immediately and directly communicate with the recipient the words that cannot be verbalized. Somehow, the specific flowers chosen become passwords as well as codes. The life of flowers is indeed very exiting if you care a little to know what they mean. Those of the Victorian era liked to make up bouquets. Tussie-mussies were generally well-liked gifts. These were small bouquets of flowers wrapped in lace doily and tied with satin. The intrigues of secret messages sent this way became a popular pastime.

  Every flower is beautiful, but the rose stands apart. Being the most popular flower world wide, because of its beauty and exceptional fragrances. Popularly, Rose is known as the flower of love. If you rearrange the letters of the word rose you get Eros, the god of love. 

  The symbolism of rose colors is steeped in many traditions. Rose has inspired people over a thousand years to develop a language of roses by ascribing meanings to color, variety and number being gifted. Traditionally the Rose is considered the flower of love. Nothing beats red roses in saying ‘I love you’ on Valentine’s Day.

Today with so many Rose color choices, there are no rules – it’s the sentiment that gives the gift the meaning. Many people assign their own personal meanings – a flower or color that might remind them of a special event, a moment in their lives. It is a great idea to have a good book on the meaning of flowers handy so that you can refer to it whenever you wish to send a special message through flowers. There are florists who can also help you send the right message. Roses have their historical meanings and Rose colors may have very different meaning from what you intend. So check that you have accurate information in this regard.

  Roses by number

Did you know that 12 red roses as a gift implies the ultimate declaration of love, 25 roses convey congratulation and 50 roses express unconditional love and constancy. A single rose of any color depicts utmost devotion. Two roses entwined together communicate ‘marry me’, six roses show a need to be loved or cherished. Eleven rose assures the recipient they are truly and deeply loved. Twelve, the most popular says “be mine” and I love you” Thirteen roses indicate a secret admirer.

Roses Flower meaning based on color

A Red rose is an unmistakable expression of love, red conveys deep passion, respect and admiration, Also used to convey heartfelt regret and sorrow. White rose is the color of purity, spirituality, innocence, chastity, healing, sympathy, humility, for a first time bride and indicative of new beginnings.

Pink roses are used to convey gentle emotions such as admiration, sweetness, grace, gratitude.

Yellow are expression of exuberance. Evokes sunny feeling of joy, warmth, and welcome. They are symbol of friendship and caring. Yellow roses like other roses doesn’t carry an undertone of romance. 

Orange roses reminds us of a fiery blaze signifying passion and energy and is used to express intense desire, pride fervor and a sense of fascination and adoration. They are rival only to the red roses as messengers of passion in romance, a passion for life. Lavender roses like its color conveys enchantment, expresses love at first sight. Shades close to purple conveys dignity, regal majesty, splendor, accomplishment, admiration and adoration.

 Blue is still elusive like the perfectly black rose. Blue rose cannot be achieved naturally, nor black.  They are created artificially. So they represent the unattainable or the mysterious they say “I can’t have you but I can’t stop thinking about you.”

Today, one may find it difficult to express his true feelings, one may wonder, “How do I say” I love you? Or “I want to be your friend”, or “you are special.” If one is gifted in such a way, he could compose a song or write a poem.  Or, he could do something much easier and more significant he could send flowers.

 It’s always good to know the symbolic meaning associated with roses. When you consciously choose a color, variety and number for someone, you bring a whole new depth to the gesture of gifting roses.

 Be creative, speak with finesse and bring the language of roses into your modern day life and romance. Below is a short list of popular roses and their meanings. However, the list is infinite. And off course the meanings may change with the various combinations. Have fun selecting the flowers to make up your Tussie-mussie and is special message.

Flowers are an amazing gift – the memories associated with their beauty last ages after the actual flower has faded.

With the knowledge of the meaning of flowers and their colors I hope you will be inspired to send special messages to your friends, families and neighbours or even to strangers. ‘‘As the world goes on, let the love go round.’’

Whatever you send, be sure to include a card that explains the meaning. 

Flowers are an amazing gift, the memories associated with their beauty lasts ages after the actual flower has faded.

  With this knowledge of the meaning and symbolism of roses and the significance of their colors, you will be inspired to send special messages of love to your families, friends, neighbours and even to strangers to share love.

Happy Valentine’s Day.

Happy Love’s Day