Plant, Gifting, Lifestyle & Flower Blog by 1-800-Flowers.com
Author: Jonathan Rowe
A former arts & culture writer for Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's Pulitzer-winning Patriot News, Jonathan Rowe is a New York-based editorialist and cover writer for SPIN, Men's Fitness and WONDERLUST travel. He has crafted original content and news for Sony Music, Live Nation, Spotify and ESPN and works as a songwriter in conjunction with multiple Grammy winners.
Every July 4, the United States of America celebrates its freedom and the defeat of the British. To mark the occasion, friends and family consume grilled meats aplenty, take trips to the beach, and watch fireworks.
But as is the case with many holidays, we don’t always fully know why we celebrate them. Here are some fun facts and stories to help you better understand and appreciate the Fourth of July.
A foreshadowing Founding Father
These grand Fourth of July revelries were foretold by Founding Father John Adams. On July 2, 1776, the future president wrote to his wife Abigail: “I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival…It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other, from this Time forward forever more.”
Independence month
Though the Declaration of Independence, initially drafted by Thomas Jefferson, was revised and adopted by Congress on July 4, it isn’t wrong to consider the entire month of July to be America’s birthday. It was actually on July 2 that America’s colonial delegates, after learning British ships had arrived at New York’s harbor, agreed to declare independence from Britain. Secession from English rule had been discussed in the halls of Congress for weeks, but the arrival of warships forced a decision, as George Washington’s Continental army suddenly found itself within striking distance of King George III’s navy.
Still, America wasn’t formally born until month’s end. After final approval of the Declaration of Independence, it took over two weeks for the document to be written perfectly on parchment paper, in a process called “engrossing,” only after which delegates could actually put pen to paper. The actual signing of the famous document took place Aug. 2.
Gargantuan amounts of grub and grog
Freedom is never free. Every year, according to a 2019 report by WalletHub, our nation’s July 4 grocery bill approaches $7 billion, almost $804 million of which goes toward beef for burgers and steaks. Roughly $370 million is spent on chicken for sandwiches and salads, and, for fans of frankfurters, well over 150 million hot dogs will hit the grill across the nation.
The Fourth of July also happens to be America’s No. 1 beer-drinking holiday, with over $1 billion in brew typically purchased. Wine is another popular drink, with about $570 million sold on the day.
Fireworks by the boatload
Though fireworks were first launched in Liuyang, China, around 200 B.C., for most Americans, the bangs, booms, and flashes of sky mortars and colored fountains will always be associated with the Fourth of July. From major corporate buyers and sports teams down to individual citizens, America collectively spends more than $1 billion on fireworks every Fourth of July. Two-thirds of all Americans say attending a fireworks show is their favorite Fourth of July activity, according to recent polls. The runners-up? Eating and going to the beach.
“One of the best ways to celebrate is by watching the Boston Pops’ Fourth of July concert and fireworks display, either in person or on TV,” says Alice Tsang, U.S. historian and director of global partnerships at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts.
If you’re planning a show at home, by all means, enjoy the sights and sounds but do be careful: Nearly 70% of fireworks injuries in our nation, to both organizers and viewers, happen during late June and mid-July.
Fourth of July flowers, arrangements, and gifts
Whether you’re throwing your own party or searching for a patriotic host gift, we have flowers and gifts that add an all-American flair to the festivities!
Some call July the “real” summer month, and they may have a point.
June serves as summer’s warmup: School is still in session in a lot of places, and full-time tank-top-and-flip-flops weather hasn’t yet arrived. August is summer’s wind-down, and not 100% carefree: The new school year approaches (or arrives fully in many Southern and Southwestern states), fall sports are gearing up, and late-season, triple-digit heat waves make air-conditioned living rooms a top vacation destination.
July is the sweet spot, an oasis on the calendar when days (or weeks!) at the pool, lake, or ocean are the norm and summer entertaining is in full swing.
It’s also a great birthday month, with no major holidays to overshadow your party — save for our nation’s birthday on the 4th. And with all its fireworks displays and cookouts, Independence Day could be viewed as the perfect day with which to partner for a birthday. July is also the people’s choice, with its plethora of party options making it the favorite month to have a birthday.
As if all this wasn’t enough, babies with July birthdays get some special gifts that can’t be purchased and wrapped.
July is full of healthy, sunny babies
July babies, science has found, are less likely to develop recurring health issues, potentially due to July mothers being exposed to plenty of seasonal sun during the months leading up to giving birth (as well as the babies themselves catching plenty of summer rays during their youngest, most formative months). This wellness boost is attributed to the high levels of vitamin D — a chemical proven to aid in general health — produced by the body when exposed to the sun. These positive growth patterns are known to last well past early childhood: Babies with July birthdays have been found to grow taller than those born in the fall or winter.
July babies are extra chill and creative
Research demonstrates that those with July birthdays often possess especially positive life attitudes and, consequently, face a lower risk of depression as adults. This could be due, studies indicate, to July babies having an above-average ability to balance emotions and not give in to mindless aggression. As a result, they are more likely to maintain composure when having a favorite toy taken away or losing a game. The effects of being able to stabilize emotions often go beyond chill moods and extend into creative confidence: July babies are more likely to become artists, a census report finds, than those born in nearly any other month.
July flowers promise endless positivity
July’s first birth flower, the larkspur, is a vivid annual that blooms abundantly in the Northern Hemisphere and high-elevation areas of the African tropics. While thriving outdoors from spring through summer’s conclusion, larkspurs grow from several inches to several feet, and in shades that have come to represent certain qualities: A blue bloom embodies grace and dignity, purple symbolizes a first love, white stands for joy and rebirth, and pink signifies classic romance.
Larkspurs of all colors have long been considered sources of positive energy. In the ancient Middle East, the flower was used to repel scorpions, and in 17th century Transylvania, dried larkspurs were kept in farm stables, believed to prevent witches from casting spells on healthy animals. Modern-day, natural healing practitioners still employ larkspur to treat insect stings and external wounds.
The month’s second birth flower is the water lily, similar in form and hue to the legendary lotus, both of which grow below, and bloom through, the surface of fresh water. For thousands of years, the water lily has represented life’s endless cycles of growth and unity; to ancient Egyptians, the flower embodied the concept of human birth, death, and rebirth, while ancient Greeks dedicated water lilies to Hera, goddess of family and marriage.
All water lilies have broad flat leaves and petals that give the flower a star-like shape. They come in a variety of shades, each of which carries a different meaning:
Pink = Knowledge and wisdom
Purple = Royalty and regality
White = The peace of nature
The water lily is not only gorgeous but practical, discouraging algae growth in home water gardens while providing shade for tadpoles and tiny fish.
July’s astrological signs are welcoming and bright
Cancers (June 21–July 22) are born communicators, swift thinkers with unique means of expression, and quirky senses of humor. A Cancer’s mind is somehow both present and dreamy — practical yet emotional — a tenuous balance that if not maintained during life’s ups-and-downs can lead to plenty of second guessing and inaction. Such is the nature of the crab: When threats arrive, it draws into its shell and stays still. All the same, crabs’ shells never hold them; Cancers love social interaction, hold a remarkable ability to read a room, and can make even strangers feel like loved ones, thanks to their capacity for great empathy and compassion. Famous Cancers include Tom Cruise, Margot Robbie, Post Malone, Kevin Bacon, and Princess Diana.
Those born at July’s tail end are Leos (July 23–Aug 22), natural leaders with a born charisma and confidence that perfectly embody their sign’s symbol, the lion. Leos’ normal state of being is warm and joyful, and they certainly do enjoy displaying this radiant nature to all they encounter. If the social spotlight drifts from a Leo, however, he will not hesitate to let out a growl, and should a Leo feel his social circle is being threatened, you will definitely hear roars.
Speaking of which, do Leos ever enjoy making sounds! They live to lead, speak, perform, and receive bountiful praise for the fruits of their expression. Madonna, Ben Affleck, Kylie Jenner, Joe Jonas, and Jennifer Lopez are all Leos.
The sheer visual beauty of a flower can be enough to attract our attention, but it is a flower’s unique and charming smell that truly seduces us, and for good reason. Of the five senses, smell has been scientifically proven to be the most powerful, and the one most directly connected to our memories: Familiar scents can instantly conjure remembrances, along with the exact emotions attached to them. Even scents that we’ve never encountered can quickly and silently affect our feelings, due to natural chemical reactions within the human body that don’t occur when our other senses are engaged.
Ultimately, this phenomenon is what drives the perfume industry — especially the all-natural fragrance movement. One of the leading figures in that field is Anya McCoy, the founder and head instructor of the Natural Perfumery Institute who has spent decades studying botany and crafting perfumes made solely from natural essential oils drawn from flowers.
For those seeking to experience Earth’s finest fragrant florals, we tapped McCoy to assist us in creating this guide to the world’s best smelling flowers.
Gardenia
The basis for such perfume classics as Chanel’s Gardénia and Marc Jacobs’ Eau de Parfum, the gardenia emits an intoxicating, velvety scent, characterized by warm, honey-orange tones that match the aesthetic of its creamy, porcelain-white petals. Regarding the version of the flower so often found in American gardens (Gardenia jasminoides), McCoy says, “Like many white flowers, they are recognized as being seductive, their deeper notes rather musky and sensual to people.” Native varieties of gardenias — carrying scents often compared to those of a Jasmine but less overwhelming — are also beloved across India and South Asia, where the flower is traditionally called “gandharaj,” which in English means “king of fragrances.”
Rose
Classic, iconic, and enchanting, roses have bloomed in the wild for nearly 35 million years, and have been used for everything from medicine to food to bath herbs. Their aroma is just as diverse, McCoy says. “The variety of different scents that are in various roses is astounding: rosy [of course], musky, citrusy, myrrh, fruit, and more.” These scent variations are spread across a spectrum of more than 150 rose species, and thousands of hybrids, each falling within three classes: species roses (best known for color), modern roses (famous for their shapes), and old garden roses (the most fragrant class). For a long-lasting method of enjoying roses, McCoy says, “I often put dried rose buds in sachets and place them in my bureau drawers or by my pillow at night.”
Lily
Treasured by French fashion legend Christian Dior and his master perfumer Edmond Roudnitska (1956’s enigmatic Diorissimo scent was based on the flower), the tiny, bell-shaped blooms of the lily emit an unmistakable, sweet, and virtuous smell. “Stargazer lilies are my favorite,” McCoy says. “Their heady scent can fill a room with a sweet, spring-like perfume.” With its opulent, slightly spicy, and inherently sensual aroma, the lily is a true dream — though its pollen, not so much. “I always make sure to clip the pollen-laden stamens off before putting the flowers in a vase or extracting their scent,” McCoy says. The reason for that is twofold: Lily pollen can stain everything orange, and it is toxic to cats.
Magnolia
Native to the Himalayan mountain ranges of Southeast Asia, and named after the French botanist Pierre Magnol, the magnolia possesses a distinctive deep-grape and sweet, banana-like fragrance that suggests a first sip of Champagne. A top choice of global aromatherapy experts, and, given its area of origin, Chinese natural wellness practitioners, magnolias and their scent introduce feelings of tranquility and quietude in a gradual, enveloping manner known to harmonize the body’s other senses. Despite their Asian origins, magnolias are grown worldwide. In America, they are almost always found in gardens across Southern states, such as Mississippi and Louisiana, where they serve as official state flowers.
Jasmine
Existing across the world in over 200 varieties, the jasmine boasts a rich, charming scent actively extracted by florists and perfumers, particularly in France, India, Egypt, and America. While the standard white-flowered jasmine offers a breezy and enticing floral sweetness, McCoy notes this is only one of many. “Everyone calls me the ‘Jasmine Queen’ because I grow seven varieties in my garden. Each has a different fragrance: sweet, musky, fruity, spicy, or vanilla like, each intoxicating in its own way. A scientist from India, when smelling my jasmine oils many years ago, shared a common saying from that country: ‘When you wear jasmine, everyone comes running to you.'”
Freesia
The freesia, a bell-shaped flower that blooms in lined succession along one single stem, is a fresh and radiant, strawberry-esque treat that delivers the type of zest and tingle associated with the first sip of a strong tea. Offering perhaps the widest hue range of all the world’s best smelling flowers, freesia bloom in shades of white, golden yellow, red, orange, pink, and mauve, as well as multicolored varieties. Replicating the true scent of natural freesia has become an ultimate obstacle for even the top perfumers, and, as a result, it rarely stands on its own, instead appearing as a partner-in-perfection to lily of the valley or magnolia in lotions, perfumes, and shampoos.
Honeysuckle
Many perfumers align the scent of honeysuckle — a plant most always smelled before being seen — with the general aroma of a summertime garden at dusk: a nectarous, vanilla-honey blend, with hints of jasmine and lemon. Though over 100 species of the flower exist — the most fragrant wild varieties of which include the English honeysuckle (Lonicera caprifolium) and Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) — even the most simple strains found across America have flavor to savor. A timeless summer pastime of both children and the young at heart involves selecting the perfect honeysuckle blossom, pinching it from the branch, and sucking the honeyed nectar from the base of the bloom.
Lavender
Offering a mild yet distinct, sweet and soothing floral aroma, lavender is one of the most valued scents in all essential oil practices. “I adore all types of lavender, from the sweet angustifolia species that I use in perfume to the camphorous spike that is a great decongestant,” McCoy says. “Each of those can be used in aromatherapy — one to calm and soothe, the other to relieve nasal congestion.” Of the 39 lavender species, the Lavandin lavender, a deep purple and herbal natural hybrid, is perhaps the most powerfully aromatic, and certainly the most productive: It can yield up to 10 times more essential oil than any other member of its genus.
Orange blossom
Despite the simplicity its name suggests, the orange blossom offers a nuanced scent that combines bright citrus notes with soapy airs, along with the grassy smell of stems and greenery, for an uplifting floral result that some align with the scent of infancy (at least the times between diaper changes). McCoy, an alum of University of California, Riverside, one of the premier citrus research centers in the world, notes the school “has over 1,200 varieties of citrus trees growing and I don’t know of any other tree that, when blooming, envelops the entire area, immediately transforming the atmosphere into an aromatherapy healing cloud. Who can stay tense or angry when smelling orange blossoms?”
Hyacinth
In the Northern Hemisphere, the potent spicy scent and bright, architectural form of the hyacinth is a sure sign spring has sprung. Carrying energizing aromas that align perfectly with the season they embody, different hyacinth types run the gamut of the color spectrum, with each offering slightly unique takes on a central strawberry-honeysuckle scent tone. For those seeking to preserve and utilize the smell of the hyacinth, McCoy suggests the following: “Pick off the individual flowers and place them in high-proof alcohol. Let it steep for a day, strain, and repeat as many times as necessary with fresh flowers to reach a fragrance strength you desire. That liquid can then be used as a room or linen spray.”
Lilac
Soft and pastel in both sight and smell, the creamy almond aroma of the early-sprouting, big-bloomed lilac is one of the cosmetic world’s favorite product elements. A common symbol across cultures of youth, purity, and innocence, lilacs come in natural shades of cool purples and tender pinks that perfectly reflect their light, flirty scent tones. Lilacs themselves aren’t flowers, as some traditionally visualize, but are blooms of deciduous shrubs that are actually part of the olive family. They are often planted alongside each other in long stretches and pruned to mark property borders in well-cultivated, delightfully smelling yards.
Heliotrope
The heliotrope’s tiny, white, or purple-red blooms offer a distinct vanilla-cherry scent that has earned it the nickname the “cherry pie plant.” The flower offers well more complexity than a pastry with fruit filling, however. Soft, powdery hints of marzipan with a licorice kick emerge after the first few inhalations, an intriguing scent combo that can hypnotize butterflies and humans alike. The flower’s title is a Greek name given for its remarkable ability to turn and face the sun as it crosses the sky (hence, the Greek term “helios,” meaning sun).
From exploring why we celebrate turning one year older to discovering birthday traditions around the world, the series “All About Birthdays” brings you fun facts about the day we all celebrate. In this article, we explore why June birthdays are the best.
June is summer’s sweet spot. Just after Memorial Day, we get four weeks of ideal weather to enjoy before the hot and humid dog days arrive. And what a month in which to be born!
Birthday party organizers can choose from a near endless variety of recreational options for entertainment: cookouts with yard games, visits to the beach, fishing, boating, hiking. For sporting types, basketball and tennis in the park or a picturesque round of golf all can serve as appetizers for watching this month’s professional basketball championship and one of the major tournaments in both golf and tennis. June is also prime music festival season, a chance to catch three or four favorite acts. Best of all, June contains the most daylight of any month; 2022’s summer solstice — the year’s longest day — falls on June 21. Plan big, because with school out for summer partygoers’ schedules should be wide open!
June brings certain fun for all, but for those born this month, it provides a few unique personal qualities.
June babies aim tall and go big
June, it seems, can provide size, smarts, and smiles — not a bad set of birthday gifts! U.K. studies have found June babies to be some of the largest at birth, as well as the tallest come adulthood. But even those who get the short end of the stick may be headed onward and upward: June has been found to be the most common birth month among Nobel Prize winners, and those born during the spring and summer have been shown to possess long-lasting optimism and a positive personal outlook.
June birthdays stay on the bright side
Seasonal affective disorder, a pattern of depression and fatigue occurring during the year’s darker, colder months, can be a tough condition to deal with. June-born individuals, however, have been found to be less likely to suffer from the disorder, which scientists speculate may be related to the pleasant weather and sunshine experienced during a June child’s most formative years. And while June babies have also been found to be more likely to experience mood swings than those born in the fall or winter, their naturally positive and level-headed natures help to even out their emotions quickly and effectively.
June feels sweet as roses and honey
June’s primary birth flower is perhaps nature’s most recognizable bloom, and definitely one of its most fragrant: the rose. Upon hearing the name, most people picture the simple red rose, though nearly 150 species of the flower exist — among them, long stem, shrub types, and others that climb like vines. They’ve been around for quite a while, too: The oldest rose first bloomed a whopping 35 million years ago!
Roses come in a variety of colors, each with its own meaning: A pink rose expresses pure happiness, white represents virtue and clarity, red says “I love you,” and yellow expresses an entirely different form of desire: jealousy. Gifting roses in full bouquets communicates utmost gratitude, while gifting just one serves as an exclamation point: A single red rose expresses absolute and eternal commitment, while one yellow says “I seriously envy your partner!”
The honeysuckle, a flavorful favorite of hummingbirds and humans alike, is also a June birth flower. Like roses, they come in both shrub (the best bird magnets) and vine forms (which can grow up to 30 feet tall), and are found in 200 varieties across the globe. All honeysuckles symbolize serenity, and, given their succulent nectar, sweetness — though, specifically, pink, yellow, and red represent friendship, flirtation, and passion, respectively. Honeysuckles also stand for maternal energy, as the butterflies and bees they attract carry plenty of pollen, a substance responsible for reproducing Mother Earth’s flowering plant life. Native to east Asia, the honeysuckle is a latecomer to North America, where its cultivation began in Long Island, New York, during the early 1800s.
With lives never dull, and at times almost too hectic to imagine, Geminis (May 21 to June 21) are perpetually curious people, driven to explore the realms of society, intellect, and finance. Geminis make thrilling friends, and potentially epic business partners, though some possess such thin attention spans that something as small as a distracting text thread could end their work day. As social chameleons, Geminis surround themselves with all sorts of life options — from arranging two sets of dinner plans for one night (before canceling one at the last minute) to maintaining multiple circles of friends (each intentionally kept separate). Well-known Geminis include Kanye West (June 8), Marilyn Monroe (June 1), and Chris Pratt (June 21).
Cancers (June 22 to July 22) are an intuitive and imaginative group, remarkably gifted in realms of communication. Always in tune with the vibe of the room, Cancers are adept at picking up subtleties of speech and body language that fly right past other signs. Possessing loads of empathy, Cancers are also perpetually easy to talk to — even for complete strangers — and make perfect confidantes. Definitely an emotional sign, social discord or personal stress can send a Cancer right back inside their shell. When around trusted friends, however, even a chronically uptight Cancer unwinds quickly. Tom Hanks (July 9), Princess Diana (July 1), Post Malone (July 4), Margot Robbie (July 2), and Will Ferrell (July 16) are all born under Cancer.
From exploring why we celebrate turning one year older to discovering birthday traditions around the world, the series “All About Birthdays” brings you fun facts about the day we all celebrate. In this article, we explore why May birthdays are the best.
As April showers give way to May flowers, spring is in full swing. The garden is growing, pools are opening, and backyard grills are coming to life, allowing for the type of together time that only warm months can offer. May’s special occasions — a series of party classics — are back: Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexican culture with margaritas galore, the Kentucky Derby delivers another round of southern indulgence, and National Wine Day brings with it, well, you know. This month also has heartfelt holidays, such as Mother’s Day, a celebration of the lovely ladies to whom we owe our lives, and Memorial Day, a salute to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.
With winter far behind in our rearview, the May experience is a present to all — though a May birthday just happens to be the gift that keeps on giving.
Hearty May bodies resist disease
May infants are born, on average, weighing nearly 7 ounces more than those born in other seasons. This ample size seems to correspond with a strong immune system: A review of 1.75 million patient records by Columbia University found that spring babies displayed an overall lower risk of general disease.
A May baby’s low disease risk does not seem to translate to athletic stardom, though, at least in the United Kingdom, where very few national sport captains have had May birthdays — save for a famous son of May 2, footballer David Beckham!
May babies feel fortunate for career options
A survey of 30,000 Europeans regarding their sense of personal luck found those born in May feel more fortunate than fall or winter babies. Scientists speculate this could be related to the fact that mothers pregnant in springtime experience higher levels of sunshine, boosting levels of dopamine (the “pleasure chemical”) in a fetus’ developing brain, which in turn raises positivity levels for years to come.
A May baby’s optimism also seems to open more career paths: U.K. studies have found that certain birth months yield workers of specific occupations — January has the most physicians, February produces the most artists, etc. — and that those born in May (and the preceding month, April) have the widest variety of occupations.
May flowers deliver happiness and protection
The lily of the valley, also known as the May lily, is actually not a lily at all but a member of the asparagus family. Far from a spiky vegetable, this one’s a beauty — a lithe stem bearing small, downturned, bell-shaped blooms and a light honeyed scent.
May lilies have come to represent innocence and modesty, and within floriography, the practice of assigning coded meanings to plants, the “return of happiness.” First cultivated in 15th-century Europe, the May lily is a very popular bridal flower, chosen even by Catherine Middleton and Princess Grace of Monaco for their royal weddings. Few medicinal uses for the flower have been proven, though water mixed with its petals was said to be used throughout 18th-century Europe for gout relief.
May’s second birth flower is the hawthorn (aka the May tree), a dense plant more likely to be used as a decoration hedge in landscaping than featured in a bouquet. A native of the temperate Northern Hemisphere, the hawthorn’s clustered white and pink blooms feature thin extensions with tiny red, orange, or black fruited tips. Such alluring visuals embody the hawthorn’s traditional meanings of fertility and earthen beauty, while its firm central twigs and thorns represent protection. Traditional medicinal uses for the flower include blood pressure regulation, menopause relief, sleep aid, and the relief of rashes and acne breakouts.
Those born under the Taurus sign (April 20 to May 20) are widely respected for their righteous ambitions, dependable natures, and pure hearts. Classic Taureans possess the type of sensual and elegant qualities that most can only wish for; yet, unlike many of life’s “beautiful people,” they are quite down to earth. Don’t mistake that kindness for weakness, though: A Taurus isn’t one to budge when pushed, and when they become aggravated, they may display outright hard-headedness, even in matters of little consequence. However, when such persistence is applied to long-term goals, Taurean determination always yields positive results. Beckham, Adele, George Clooney, Tina Fey, and Megan Fox all have Taurus as their astrological sign.
The ever-curious Gemini (May 21 to June 21) is rarely found bored, or labeled boring. Living in a rapid manner both physically and mentally, Geminis can be exciting friends, though hard types to work with; if they lose concentration during a meeting, the day might be over. High-energy Gemini nature thrives on change and choices, leading many born under the sign to keep options around: alternate recreation, income sources, and, for a small few, even lovers. Be it national news or just local rumors, a Gemini must stay informed, and can often be found glued to social media in search of life’s inside scoops. Famous Geminis include Marilyn Monroe, Kanye West, Angelina Jolie, and Prince.
From exploring why we celebrate turning one year older to discovering birthday traditions around the world, the series “All About Birthdays” brings you fun facts about the day we all celebrate. In this article, we explore why April birthdays are the best.
As the first full month of spring, April may be the most enjoyable warm-weather time of year, a 30-day-long pick-me-up that reintroduces the glow of nature we’ve all so dearly missed over the winter.
The month’s jovial feeling arrives immediately in the form of April Fools’ Day, which is followed by Easter and Earth Day, celebrations of a revival of both the spirit and the soil. April is also arguably the most exciting sports month of the year: From the culmination of college basketball tournaments to baseball opening day to a certain major golf tournament held in Augusta, Georgia, there’s a lot for sports fans to get excited about.
The return of a lush, livable outdoors and a sporting paradise are gifts to all, but it turns out those born in April actually have a few extra reasons to celebrate this month.
Those born in April work far and wide
Studies show that those born in specific months tend toward certain career paths — for instance, January produces more doctors and economists than any other month, and February more artists and traffic cops — but it turns out individuals born in April display an especially diverse range of career trajectories.
Some think this may have to do with the fact that April-born students are rarely ever the youngest or oldest in their class, both of which are factors thought to distinctly affect a child’s schooling experience and future aims.
The medical journal Sleepalso found that April babies are much more likely to be night owls than those born in other seasons, a personality trait that may lead them to pursue non-office jobs, self-employment, and independent work in greater numbers.
April’s birth flowers are bright as spring
April’s first birth flower is the daisy, a truly classic bloom whose modern name is a variation of its Old English moniker, the “day’s eye.” True to its British title, some species of daisies gradually turn their faces throughout the day, “watching” the sun across the sky for maximum light, before closing their petals at night.
Though a simple and quite common flower, daisies can provide their admirers with stunning sights. At certain points in their lifespan, the tiny symmetrical “disc flowers” that radiate from the bloom’s head can be seen to form amazing geometric patterns. Nearly a half-dozen varieties of daisies exist, ranging from light whites to pinks, each of which is said to represent purity, new beginnings, and joy — all concepts synonymous with spring.
Available in pristine white, and a spectrum of light red, pinks, and purples, April’s second birth flower, the sweet pea, is said to represent blissful living, innocence, and pure-hearted desire. Originating in the Mediterranean, the sweet pea was brought to England in the 1600svia traveling monks. There, it flourished quietly until 19th-century Victorian royalty took notice and spread the bloom across the continents.
A sweet pea’s succulent citrus and honey fragrance packs a double treat; it’s not only a favorite of humans but also a handy natural repellent of pests, such as flies and winged beetles. Its admirers must remain mindful of the flower’s seed pods, however, the contents of which are poisonous to both humans and animals if consumed.
April babies can breathe easy
A Columbia medical study found that, compared to individuals born throughout the rest of the year, April babies face significantly less risk of reproductive complications and neurological issues (including ADHD, most commonly diagnosed in those born in late fall and winter). Chronic breathing problems, such as asthma, are also few and far between among April babies; this is thought to be due to the fact that dust mites are extremely common in early spring, and increased exposure to mites so early in a baby’s first year may produce immunity that lowers the risk of future allergies.
April’s astrological signs are strong willed and steady
Leonardo da Vinci
Those born under Aries (March 21 to April 20) are often bold progress seekers endowed with a get-go that perfectly embodies their sign’s symbol, the ram. The dawn of Aries accompanies the vernal equinox, an event that marks the point on the calendar when days start to have more sunlight than darkness, endowing nature with unstoppable springtime energy.
Somehow, most Aries possess a similar larger-than-life vigor year-round within the realms of their career and personal planning. Such dedication to one’s plans is an invaluable life trait. However, when delays beyond their control cause a frustrated Aries to have to break their momentum, stand back — there’s a reason rams are known for butting heads! Some of Aries’ most famous members include Leonardo da Vinci, Kristen Stewart, Thomas Jefferson, Elton John, and Lady Gaga.
Those born under Taurus (April 20 to May 20) are generally an amiable, loving, and noticeably attractive bunch, respected for their well-formed beliefs and elegant manner. However, the sign of Taurus, the bull, is quite telling of the personality few see: highly protective of their inner circle, mentally alert, and tenacious when it comes to personal opinions.
Though most Tauruses are markedly polite on the day-to-day, when incited to charge, all matadors beware: A bull never submits when taunted. However, drama is nothing a Taurus seeks, as one of their deepest desires in life is simple stability. Dwayne Johnson, Adele, David Beckham, Queen Elizabeth II, and Amber Heard are just a few well-known Tauruses.
From exploring why we celebrate turning one year older to discovering birthday traditions around the world, the series “All About Birthdays” brings you fun facts about the day we all celebrate. In this article, we explore why March birthdays are the best.
Bringing with it a long-awaited change of seasons and reawakening of nature, March is an especially refreshing month. Flowers are beginning to bloom in fields, leaves are sprouting on branches, and the birds who migrated south for the winter are returning north, singing along the way. Daylight saving time returns with an extra hour of priceless daylight. This is especially enjoyed by parents ready to let the kids run in circles somewhere other than the living room. Excitement abounds in the sports world: college basketball enthralls fans for three weeks straight, while professional basketball and hockey barrel toward the playoffs.
March is a joyous time for all, but it turns out those born in March have even more reasons to celebrate.
March babies look on the bright side
A European study found that adults born in March tend to score higher on the hyperthymic scale, an evaluation of an individual’s general levels of optimism and positivity. On the other hand, those born in the winter months tend to score lower, making them more at risk for depression and seasonal affective disorders. March babies’ boosted moods seem to correspond with elevated vitamin D levels found among spring mothers — who tend to be exposed to extra sunshine, a huge source of the vitamin — late in their pregnancies. The extra natural light experienced by March moms also boosts their levels of light-dependent melatonin, which researchers have found can result in having taller children.
March produces sure-sighted leaders
Many born this month are destined to reach high levels, whether in executive offices or the skies themselves. A University of British Columbia study discovered that 12.5% of all CEOs from S&P 500 companies were born in March — the highest percentage of any birth month — while the U.K.’s Office of National Statistics found that March babies (the non-executive ones) are much more likely to become airplane pilots than those born in any other month. It certainly can’t hurt that they are likely to have great eyesight: A study of over 250,000 military candidates found March-born individuals experienced fewer vision problems throughout their lifetime than those born in summer or fall.
March’s birth flower, the bright and sunny daffodil, features a single trumpet-shaped bloom that projects news of spring’s return. Daffodils carry positive connotations across the globe: In Japan they represent joy; in France ambition; and in China, where they are the official symbol of Chinese New Year, good luck and pleasant surprises.
The gifting of daffodils has come to represent a belief in a true, lasting love that can survive bleak seasons of life, just as daffodil bulbs survive the freeze of winter. Legend has it that this flower must be gifted in bunches (we’ve got you covered!), as presenting just one daffodil is said to invite misfortune. One important reminder: Indoors, daffodils are best kept in their own vases, as their stems give forth a latex that can weaken and wilt other flowers placed in the same water.
The month’s second birth flower, the jonquil, is actually a specific type of daffodil, featuring multiple blooms per stem and a stronger, more sugary fragrance than single blooms. Both flowers carry the same meanings and traditions, but the scarcity and the extra-sweet scent of jonquils provide an additional level of charm. English Romantic age poet William Wordsworth often mused on daffodils in his works as a natural source of hope, and given the regions in which jonquils thrive, it is likely the flowers that captivated him were of this variety. In his personal diaries, third U.S. President Thomas Jefferson also wrote of being inspired every spring by the jonquils that bloomed at Monticello, his Charlottesville, Virginia, homestead.
March zodiac signs are pure and positive
Those born under Pisces (February 19 to March20), the final sign in the zodiac, are a rare breed of idealists and dreamers, guided through life by personal intuition rather than society’s rules. A Pisces possesses personality elements from each zodiac sign, and, along with this universal nature, the ability to empathize with nearly everyone they meet. But along with this gift comes a weighty task: Pisces must actively balance their emotions with reason so as to not let floods of feelings drown out their rationality. Thankfully, others will be around to help them stay steady; the subtle vulnerability that Pisces project earns them loyal friends who recognize the purity and honesty of their hearts. Well-known Pisces include Rihanna, Kurt Cobain, Rashida Jones, Chris Martin, and Justin Bieber.
Atop the zodiac chart sits independent and courageous Aries (March 21 to April 20), a group whose eagerness perfectly embodies spring and nature’s re-awakening. Noticeably confident and optimistic, Aries lives life chomping at the bit for leadership opportunities — all positives, though the passionate “let’s get going” Aries attitude can rapidly transform into disruptive frustration when delays arise at home and work. Just like their symbol, the ram, Aries dive headfirst into challenges to gain momentum and force themselves to focus, an approach that can either yield unmatched productivity or, if not balanced with composure, simply result in a butting of heads. Lady Gaga, Leonardo da Vinci, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Robert Downey Jr. are all born under the sign of Aries.
Whether you’re looking for romantic gift ideas or ways to make yourself feel loved, “Your Trusted Cupid” brings you top-notch advice from relationship experts. Here, find date night ideas for men so they can dress to impress.
In our age of revolving dating apps stocked with endless options, it’s more important than ever to step up your date night game with solid style, effective planning, and memorable manners. For guidance on all of the above, we linked with experts from the classic British menswear clothier Charles Tyrwhitt to discuss how to sharpen your look without denting your dating budget.
1. Build a core closet
Establishing your core wardrobe with elements that allow for both comfort and confidence is key to enjoying a great dating life. When it comes to pants “Chinos are perfect because they go with just about any outfit,” says Charles Tyrwhitt marketing specialist Stephanie Gallo. She also suggests picking up basic pieces that work with your current closet, such as a versatile jacket to compliment your favorite button-up. “A good blazer is also a wardrobe staple as it is easy to dress up, and dress down.”
2. Add subtle flair
Though basic rules will always exist (shoe color should always match the belt), don’t dress so safe that you get lost in the crowd. To stand out the right way, Gallo recommends adding some elements of low-key flair, like a modern take on a classic shoe (like these Leather Hybrid Sneakers), or to compliment a blazer or suit, a pocket square (either low-key class or with some flash). And choice accessories aren’t the only way to stand out from the pack; gifting flowers after a few dates is sure to get you remembered.
3. Plan accordingly
When you’re ready to ask someone out, remember, a simple drink at the bar is possibly the least memorable first date known to man. While there’s nothing wrong with suggesting a round to warm up for the evening, try to build it into a meaningful date that shows you’ve been paying attention in conversations or DMs. What favorite places, foods, and activities have your date mentioned, and which do you have in common? Relationship expert Dr. Betsy Chung says, “There’s nothing like a person who truly listens . . . be genuinely curious about your date’s story, and you’ll be able to remember important details that you can use to ‘wow’ them in future dates.”
4. First impressions
When that fateful first date night arrives, Gallo reminds us to keep focused on balance: “The goal on a first date is to look good but not overdone. If you dress too shabby or over-the-top, then your date will be more focused on what you’re wearing rather than who you are.” And if you end up stressing over your outfit less than an hour before meet-up time (no problem, it happens to the best of us), Gallo says to merely elevate pieces you already have in your wardrobe. “If you simply own a classic pair of pants – you can elevate the look with a simple button-down shirt.”
5. Pay honest attention
When we’re nervous on a date, we tend to talk a lot, mostly about ourselves. Should you feel this coming on, sit back and let your date guide the conversation. “Find a healthy balance between personally relating to the conversation topic and showing genuine curiosity in what your date has to say. Listen to what is being said rather than the voice inside your head,” advises Dr. Chung. And it should go without saying, but once the date starts, keep both your hands and eyes off that phone! Ideally, you should turn it off, but if that thought causes panic attacks, at least switch to Do Not Disturb.
6. Normal plus formal
If things click and a relationship begins to develop, be sure to alternate date planning to keep things exciting. You never know what level of dress your partner’s date idea will require, so make sure your closet is ready with a cornerstone classic suit. “A suit is a core investment piece that should be in every gentleman’s closet,” says Gallo. “Our classic twill suit is perfect for your special occasions.” If things take off and a relationship develops, the reasons to formally celebrate will start rolling in — a birthday, the holidays, and if you’re lucky, an anniversary.
7. Dress flexibly
Sometimes dates go from indoors to outdoors. Often a restaurant is much colder or warmer than we expected. To prevent sweltering or freezing, learn the art of smart layering for date night, which begins with picking up a strong, versatile outer layer. “Invest in a good jacket, it is truly a wardrobe staple. One of my personal favorite jackets at Charles Tyrwhitt is the Fall Herringbone Collar Jacket. Layer that with a Cashmere Zip Neck Sweater and a fun striped Washed Oxford Top with the collar peeping out the top,” says Gallo. “Cashmere is as warm as wool, but more breathable and with less bulk, so this sweater will fit comfortably under your jacket and shouldn’t lead to overheating.”
8. Just be yourself
Dr. Chung reminds us that dating isn’t about one-upping the next guy or putting on a front to charm someone, rather, simply presenting the true you in a conscious, considerate way. The same mindset applies to style. “Don’t overthink it…dressing is an easy form of expression, so allow your style to reflect your personality,” says Gallo. Relax, there’s no way to completely lose on date night, because if this one doesn’t work out, congratulations, you just gained invaluable experience!
From tulips to chrysanthemums, our series “The Language of Flowers” explores everything from fresh flower care tips to flower symbolism and meaning. This article explores the symbolism of the timeless rose.
Of all the beautiful blooms in the world, the beloved rose has a more intimate relationship with the human race than any other. Archaeological finds confirm roses are among the earliest flowers to bloom on Earth, having first appeared in Asia before spreading wild across the entire Northern Hemisphere.
“According to fossil evidence, roses are 35 million years old,” says Sharon McGukin, former president of the American Institute of Floral Designers and a floral décor specialist. “About 5,000 years ago, roses began to be cultivated in gardens, probably in China.”
By 500 B.C., hundreds of books about the flower were being kept in the emperor’s library, according to Chinese philosopher Confucius. Imperial love for the flower grew steadily and eventually reached near-dangerous levels. Due to the rose breeding habits of Han dynasty emperors, the blooms overtook so much of the nation’s arable land (as well as its water supply) that the country began to experience food shortages.
“Roses were also grown extensively in the Middle East during Roman times,” Sharon says. Egyptian queen Cleopatra was a known fancier of roses, using them in her attempt to romance (successfully, we might add) Roman general Mark Antony. Before visits from Antony, all fountains around Cleopatra’s palace were to be fully refreshed with rose water, and the queen’s personal chambers were to be filled ankle deep with rose petals.
Over a millennium later, a young playwright by the name of William Shakespeare penned the line “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Taken from his classic play “Romeo and Juliet,” the line is spoken by Juliet to remind Romeo that despite the two of them being members of opposing houses of rule, their love remains genuine and true. In 1485, Henry VII declared roses to be England’s national flower, and almost exactly 500 years later, President Ronald Reagan followed suit, naming the rose the national floral emblem of the U.S. during a press conference in — where else? — the White House Rose Garden.
The science behind rose symbolism
It’s no surprise, then, that the rose, with its widespread global history, exists in over 150 species, including climbers, groundcovers, shrubby plants, and thousands of hybrids that come in a wide variety of shades and shapes. “The rose family is an important plant family of around 3,000 members,” Sharon says. “You can see the resemblance when admiring the similar round, rose-shaped blooms of many fruit trees or berry vines.”
According to fossil evidence, roses are 35 million years old.
Sharon McGukin
Floral décor specialist
With so many roses to choose from, gifting of the flower has developed a “language” all its own, wherein specific messages are said to be communicated by the sender according to the color and number of blooms in the arrangement. Red roses express romantic love, yellow the care of friendship. White roses symbolize innocence and purity, orange blooms convey passion and enthusiasm, and pink means admiration, thanks, and joy.
One especially unique rose is the blue rose, which, Sharon says, “does not exist in nature due to genetic limitations. Requests for blue roses, however, prompted the development of a dyed and cultivated variety with a blue-to-violet pigmentation.” Appropriately, blue roses are said to embody mystery and achieve the impossible.
As for messages represented by the number of roses sent, one-bloom gifting is said to symbolize love at first sight, two mean a deep and personal love, and three roses mean “I love you.” Seven roses express infatuation or love in its earliest stages, nine roses declare eternal love, and a dozen roses — the lover’s special — are thought to mean everything at once.
Priceless roses around the world
Roses in the U.S. are generally a reasonably priced flowers suitable for crafting a heartfelt message for a loved one, but some are not meant to be purchased. One example of that is the Juliet rose, a pale, peach-colored garden rose first displayed at the 2006 Chelsea Flower Show and grown after a painstaking 15-year cultivation period. Destined to forever remain in its planter, this bloom holds an estimated worth of $15.8 million.
Our planet’s most priceless rose, however, may be the “Thousand-year Rose,” which Australian newspaper The Maitland Mercury reports to be the single oldest-living rose bush known to man. A Rosa canina variety, also known as a wild dog rose, the plant snakes nearly all the way up the 70-foot high and 30-foot wide outer wall of a cathedral in Hildesheim, Germany.
Throughout history, humans have appreciated the rose for much more than just sights and smells. In fact, the oldest variety of rose, the Rosa gallica officinalis, or “Apothecary’s Rose,” is, as its name suggests, used by herbalists in crafting elixirs. “Roses continue to be used today for oils, perfumes, and medicinal purposes,” Sharon says. “Rose water is often used in jellies or Asian foods (and to make ice cream!), and rose hips are also a great source of vitamin C and can be used in herbal teas.”
In some religious circles, roses are believed to represent spiritual wellness, the result of God’s work in people’s lives. Regardless of personal beliefs, Sharon reminds us that we should all follow the age-old suggestion this National Rose Month and “stop and smell the roses” — which is to say, slow down and enjoy the beauty of life.
