Language of Flowers: A Special Christmas Gift

Give Personalized and Unique Holiday Presents to Friends and Family

Dec 5, 2009
Victoria Nicks

The Purple Lilac Expresses First Emotions of Love - Stock Xchng Image by catdesign

Use the Victorian tradition of using coded flower bouquets for messages to send unique and special Christmas gifts to friends and family this holiday season.

Having trouble choosing a special Christmas gift? Send unique Christmas messages to friends, family, and other loved ones this holiday season by learning about the language of flowers. This subtle code can send a variety of loving sentiments, and is relatively inexpensive.

Assembling the Christmas Bouquet

Some legwork may be required, in order to find the particular type of flower or herb needed for the message. Since dried flowers and artificial flowers convey the same message as fresh flowers, between a trip to the local crafting store, a greenhouse, and an herbalist, it should be possible to find all necessary items. Remember to include a card with the meaning of each type of flower, so the recipient understand the full meaning of the gift. (Read more about the language of flowers here.)

Christmas Baskets for Men

For men, a Christmas message with fruit, flowers, etc. might be best compiled as a basket, rather than a bouquet. The items chosen for a man should include masculine elements, and should not be too feminine. Avoid pink flowers and other similarly feminine items. There are many different types of greenery, herbs, nuts, fruit, and flowers that can be used to express any thought or feeling while still retaining a masculine 'feel' to the bouquet.

Cactus - The cactus, any variety, signifies endurance. Include this in the bouquet to suggest that the recipient is patient and strong, or that he has endured many trials successfully.
Four-Leaved Clover - The four-leaved clover gives the message, "Be Mine". This idea is not confined to Valentine's Day, and would be a positive addition to a romantic bouquet.
Currant - The currant signifies a pleasing, pleasant person. The actual message provided by currants is, "You please all".
Fern - The fern means sincerity, which is a easy way to emphasize the message sent by the rest of the bouquet.
Filbert - The filbert, or hazelnut, means reconciliation. This nut would be a good addition to a bouquet or basket for an ex, but only if reconciliation is desired.
Fennel - This herb translates to "strength", which can be used to demonstrate that the recipient of the bouquet is considered to be strong.

A Woman's Christmas Bouquet

Choosing flowers and herbs for a woman's Christmas bouquet is much more simple. There are a vast number of pretty flowers and herbs that look nice in a feminine bouquet, and also convey a personal meaning. To express love with a bouquet as a special Christmas gift, choose one or more of the following flowers: