Madeline Brik, Author at 1800Flowers Petal Talk

Boss’s Day Gift Ideas for Every Personality

It’s time to celebrate the head honcho with some Boss’s Day gift ideas!

Boss’s Day, which is observed every year on Oct. 16, is a day for employees to acknowledge their managers for all the hard work they do throughout the year. The idea came about when an insurance company employee named Patricia Bays Haroski registered the day as a holiday back in 1958 in honor of her boss — who also happened to be her father. She chose Oct. 16 because it was her father’s birthday, and she wanted it to be remembered as the day that strengthens the bond between employers and their workers.

Nowadays, we still honor our supervisors by giving them a thoughtful token of our appreciation. But how do you pick the right present for the captain of the ship? The first step is to think about their personality and management style.

Here are some helpful Boss’s Day gift ideas that are a perfect fit for any type of boss.

Revitalizing gifts for the hardworking boss

Bosss Day Gift Ideas the giving gift for her

For her: The Giving Gift for Her

For him: Self Care Kit for Men

These movers and shakers keep your workplace going, tirelessly toiling from sunrise to sunset to ensure that both you and the company are successful. Give your overachieving boss a gift that will help them relax and re-energize after putting in all those hours.

Fun gifts for the laid-back boss

Bosss Day Gift Ideas Cocktail Succulent Spa Gift Box

For her: Cocktail Succulent & Spa Gift Box

For him: The Bacon Bouquet

Business in the front, party in the back! This boss knows how to run a successful operation — and have a good time doing it. For the free spirit with a great sense of humor, give them something unique that will make them smile.

Out-of-the-box gifts for the innovative boss

For her: Tea Forte® Soleil Tea Gift Box

Bosss Day Gift Ideas Whiskey Decanter And Whiskey Glasses

For him: Golf Whiskey Decanter Set

These guys are always one step ahead of the game. Their fresh new ideas hold the promise of a thriving future. Fuel your boss’s creativity by giving them a gift that’s as ingenious as they are.

Sophisticated gifts for the ritzy boss

Bosss Day Gift Ideas Gourmet Cheese Gift with Wine

For her: Gourmet Cheese Gift with Wine

For him: Money Tree Plant

Always dressed to the nines and spotted at the swankiest hangouts, this boss lives the high life. Give them something tasteful that will look nice in their big office or complement their luxurious lifestyle.

Inspirational gifts for the encouraging boss

For her: The Gratitude Jar

For him: Green Mound Juniper Bonsai

The ultimate team player, this boss has faith in their staff and can stir up your enthusiasm with a motivational speech on the fly. This Boss’s Day, return the favor by presenting them with a spirit-raising keepsake.

Simple gifts for the no-nonsense boss

Bosss Day Gift Ideas Marble Queen Pothos Plant

For her: Marble Queen Pothos Plant

Bosss Day Gift Ideas Personalized Ball Point Pen

For him: Black Stylus Personalized Ballpoint Pen

No frills, no thrills — just show them results. That’s the kind of boss you have, and that philosophy is reflected in their possessions. Get your superior a gift that gets the job done, plain and simple, and doesn’t require a lot of fuss.

Sentimental gifts for the sensitive boss

For her: Big Thanks Energy bouquet

Bosss Day Gift Ideas Engraved Marble Keepsake

For him: The Boss Engraved Marble Keepsake

As someone who leads with compassion and understanding, your boss is in tune with not just his own feelings but those of his staff as well. A gift that hits him in the feels will be much appreciated.

12 Irish Flowers You Should Know

Clovers and shamrocks may be the most recognizable plants in Ireland, but other flowers thrive on the Emerald Isle. In fact, blooms are a significant part of the country’s landscape and lore. Here are 12 Irish flowers that are worthy of your attention.

1. Bog rosemary

Bog rosemary is a wildflower that is native to Ireland, and found mainly in the center of the country. It is extremely small, and, considering its height, easy to miss amid the surrounding moss. Bog rosemary flowers bloom in early May, and by June they have usually settled into a pale pink color.

2. Easter lily

The Easter lily is a symbol of peace in Ireland. The flower’s distinctive shape symbolizes unity, equality, and prosperity for all Irish people. Its colors, which are the same as those of the Irish flag, are also symbolic. The green stem represents the ancient Celtic people, the orange signifies Ireland’s Protestant settlers, and the white symbolizes the peace and respect between the two.

Many Irish wear a lily-shaped badge during the Easter season to remember those who died during an uprising in 1916.

3. Sheep’s bit

Sheep’s bit is a scrappy purple flower similar to the Scottish thistle but with rounder heads and thinner leaves. The flowers thrive in dry, grassy locations, bloom between May and September, and grow in large numbers. They are easily identified by the round flowers that are a mix of blue and purple.

4. Wild cherry

Wild cherry trees are some of the most beautiful trees found in Ireland. Two different species of native wild cherry are found on the Emerald Isle: Prunus avium and Prunus padus. Prunus avium can be found in hedgerows and woodlands throughout Ireland, whereas Prunus padus, which is more rare, grows in the Midlands and the west in limestone areas. Though the trees look different, the flowers each produces are beautiful regardless of whether they are on the tree’s branches or the ground.

5. Spring squill

Spring squill, known as “sciolla earraigh” to the Irish, is a member of the Asparagaceae family. These relatively small perennial flowers thrive best in dry, short, and coastal grounds. Native to Ireland, spring squill is commonly found growing in groups (often in the spring) and possess a beautiful pale blue color.

6. Poppy

Poppies are distinctive from their papery red petals and black center. The flowers grew on battlefields throughout Europe during World War I and, thus, are worn to remember those who died. Wearing a poppy can be interpreted as a political statement; some view it as being analogous to advocating war, which has caused heated debates about the appropriateness of wearing them — notably by Irish athletes.

7. White clover

White clovers grow freely along the Irish countryside and are used as a cover crop. Their trefoil leaves attract bees, butterflies, and mice. They bloom from May to October.

8. Daisy

There is more to daisies than their cheerful appearance. The poet Percy Bysshe Shelley described the daisy as “that constellated flower that never sets.” These hardy little plants grow as wildflowers on Ireland’s rugged grasslands. Daisies have a long lifespan, too, growing from March to October.

9. Buttercup

Covering the countryside by the time May rolls around, buttercups are a harbinger of the calendar’s warmer months. Their rapid growth is a result of a robust root system. Many varieties native to Ireland can be identified by turning over the flower to inspect their petals for the number of sepals they have. The name “buttercup” derives from the tiny cup-shaped scales that hold the flower’s nectar.

10. Ragwort

Ragwort is a foe to those who suffer from allergies, and can cause liver damage to horses and livestock, but are beloved by bees and butterflies, and help the ecosystem. The bright yellow wildflowers, which look like the scrappy cousin of the daisy, blanket the Irish countryside from June to November. According to ancient lore, ragwort transported fairies on the flower’s cushiony center.

11. Early dog violet

Early dog violet has a regal purple flower that balances on a dainty stem. It gets the name “early” from the fact it grows as early as March, whereas other violets bloom in April. Early dog violets are a favorite of butterflies, and are a key food source for five different varieties: pearl-bordered fritillary, small pearl-bordered fritillary, high brown fritillary, silver-washed fritillary, and dark green fritillary.

12. Primrose

The primrose is another early spring wildflower, with delicate leaves and a powerful, fragrant scent. It is advisable not to pick one up, though, since it will immediately wilt. According to Celtic beliefs, the primrose is sacred and the key to heaven. Irish people commonly placed it in doorways as a signal to fairies to keep their homes safe.

How to Say ‘Flower’ in 50 Different Languages

how to say flower in different languages with Single Long-Stem Infinite Rose

Shakespeare was right: A flower called by any other name would still smell just as sweet…and it would look just as beautiful too! But that doesn’t mean we can’t have some fun learning all the different names that blooms are given around the world.

Here’s how to say “flower” in 50 different languages.

Afrikaans: “Blom”
Albanian: “Lule”
Azerbaijani: “Gül”
Bosnian: “Cvijet”
Catalan: “Flor”
Croatian: “Cvijet”
Czech: “Kvet”
Danish: “Blomst”
Dutch: “Bloem”
Esperanto: “Floro”
Estonian: “Lill”
Filipino: “Bulaklak”
Finnish: “Kukka”
French: “Fleur”
German: “Blume”
Greek: “Anthos” or “λουλούδι”

Guarani: “ફૂલ”
Haitian Creole: “Flè”
Hungarian: “Virág”
Icelandic: “Blóm”
Indonesian: “Bunga”
Irish: “Bláth” or “Planda”
Italian: “Fiore”
Kurdish: “Kûlîlk”
Latin: “Flos”
Latvian: “Zieds”
Lithuanian: “Gėlė”
Malay: “Bunga”
Maltese: “Fjura”
Norwegian: “Blomst” or “Blome”
Polish: “Kwiat”

Portuguese: “Flor”
Romanian: “Floare”
Scottish Gaelic: “Flùr”
Serbian: “цвет”
Slovak: “Kvetina”
Slovenian: “Cvet”
Somali: “Ubax”
Spanish: “Flor”
Sundanese: “Kembang”
Swahili: “Maua”
Swedish: “Blomma”
Thai: “ดอกไม้”
Turkish: “çiçek”
Ukrainian: “квітка”
Vietnamese: “Hoa”
Welsh: “Blodyn”

Now that you know how to say flower in different languages, tell us what other flower-related words you know how to say in your favorite language!

Your Comprehensive Guide to All Things Fall Foliage

There’s a lot to love about fall ― the change in weather, apple picking, pumpkin picking, pumpkin spice everything, Halloween and more ― but if there’s one thing in particular that we love most about the season, it’s the leaves changing color. Yes, we love the way the trees look in spring and summer too, but looking out and seeing a sea of different colors gives us a feeling we can’t describe!

Would you say that you love fall foliage just as much as we do? If so, we bet you’ll enjoy this guide that we’ve put together. It covers everything from fall foliage facts to different leaf colors, how leaves change color, and where you can go for the best views.

Autumn Foliage Reflecting in a New England Pond Vermont

Fall foliage facts

Although we notice the leaves change color in the fall, the red, orange, and yellow pigments are actually present in leaves all year round. The only difference is that during other seasons the pigments are primarily underneath the leaves’ surface.
The reason these beautiful colors come out in the fall has to do with the change in sunlight. As the summer sun starts to die down, the chemical chlorophyll breaks down, which brings out the hidden colors.
Some suspect that global warming may have a negative impact on fall foliage, since part of the reason leaves change has to do with the change in temperature.
A leaf’s color is typically a result of the species of tree on which it is found. For example, the leaves on aspen trees are generally a golden yellow during the fall months.
Leaves that fall to the ground during this time of year are extremely important for the ecosystem, as they become a form of protection for tree seeds as they germinate during the winter.

How do leaves change color?

While the colors we see in fall leaves are actually present all year long, they only become visible during the fall. This has to do with chlorophyll, an important chemical that helps plants absorb energy from the sun. It is eventually used to turn carbon dioxide and water into sugars and starches. Its color is a deep green, so it makes perfect sense that leaves are green when this chemical is abundant.

In the fall, however, the chlorophyll begins to break down as a result of changes in both temperature and the amount of sunlight present each day. As the chlorophyll breaks down, the deep green color naturally begins to diminish as well, allowing the leaves’ other colors (red, yellow, orange, etc.) to pop out.

The science behind leaf colors

While it may seem like the trees just pick and choose their colors at random, the truth is that there is a science behind which leaves turn which colors.

For example, take the leaves of the sugar maple. After they go through a series of shades of green, the leaves eventually turn yellow and orange, and then finish the season by displaying a beautiful red color. This differs greatly from sourwood trees, as, after being green, their leaves change to red, yellow, and even purple. Another example is oak trees, whose leaves tend to be mostly brown.

And what is the reason for the difference in color? It could have a lot to do with the amount of chlorophyll left over and the other pigments that mix with it during the fall.

The best places to see fall foliage

Looking for the best places to see fall foliage? Here are the top seven places we recommend.

Fall Foliage and the Stowe Community Church, Stowe, Vermont, USA

Stowe, Vermont. Vermont is one of the best places in the world when it comes to fall foliage, and Stowe, Vermont, in particular, is one town to check out. You may recognize the name, as it is where the Trapp Family Lodge is located!
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is an awesome destination if you’re looking for the best fall foliage in the state. It’s an outdoor museum that occupies 10 acres, and, in addition to the views, you can also take in all the history that surrounds this New England town.
Camden, Maine. It’s one thing to just view mountains with rows and rows of trees, but it’s another to view fall foliage with water in the background too! Essentially, this destination will give you the best of both worlds: You’ll get a little bit of the mountains and a seaside experience.
Kent, Connecticut. If you’re looking for somewhere that’s cute, charming, and quaint, the farming community of Kent, Connecticut, is your answer. For some awesome views of the Catskill Mountains, head to Macedonia Brook State Park.
Keene, New York. You can’t go wrong with this New York town, as it is home to the highest peak in the Adirondacks ― just imagine the views you’ll get from there! This is an awesome spot to visit all year round for that very reason, but especially in fall, when the leaves are bursting with color.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The Smoky Mountains offer breathtaking photo ops all throughout the year, but fall will give you a breathtaking look at golden yellow leaves. October to November is the best time to visit.
Mountain Lakes, New Jersey. Not too far from Manhattan is Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, and the name says it all. As with Camden, Maine, a visit here will give you the best of everything ― a great look at fall foliage as well as some awesome lakeside views.

Did you know there are also fall foliage tours you can take? There are! These are especially prevalent in the New England area, but remember to plan your tour well in advance to ensure that the timing is right for you to see the best sights.

State Flowers in Alphabetical Order

From Alabama to Wyoming, each of the fifty states boasts a special bloom to represent their unique region. While some state flowers are chosen simply because they are common in that area, others were chosen due to historical significance or from popular vote from the community.

Fun fact: while each state has its own unique flower, so does each country! The United State’s national flower is the rose. Find out more in our article about different countries and their national flowers!

State Flowers in Alphabetical Order

Alabama – Camellia

Alaska – Forget-me-not

Arizona – Sagauro cactus blossom

Arkansas – Apple blossom

California – California poppy

Colorado – Rocky Mountain columbine

Connecticut – Mountain laurel

Delaware – Peach blossom

Florida – Orange blossom

Georgia – Azalea

Hawaii – Hawaiian hibiscus

Idaho – Syringa

Illinois – Violet

Indiana – Peony

Iowa – Wild prairie rose

Kansas – Sunflower

Kentucky – Goldenrod

Louisiana – Magnolia

Maine – White pine cone

Maryland – Black-eyed Susan

Massachusetts – Mayflower

Michigan – Apple blossom

Minnesota – Pink and white lady’s slipper

Mississippi – Magnolia

Missouri – Hawthorn

Montana – Bitterroot

Nebraska – Goldenrod

Nevada – Sagebrush

New Hampshire – Purple lilac

New Jersey – Violet

New Mexico – Yucca flowers

New York – Rose

North Carolina – Flowering dogwood

North Dakota – Wild prairie rose

Ohio – Scarlet carnation

Oklahoma – Oklahoma rose

Oregon – Oregon grape

Pennsylvania – Mountain laurel

Rhode Island – Violet

South Carolina – Yellow jessamine

South Dakota – Pasque flower

Tennessee – Iris

Texas – Bluebonnet

Utah – Sego lily

Vermont – Red clover

Virginia – American dogwood

Washington – Coast rhododendron

West Virginia – Rhododendron

Wisconsin – Wood violet

Wyoming – Indian paintbrush

What Zodiac Flower Are You Based on Your Astrological Sign?

From exploring why we celebrate turning one year older to discovering birthday traditions around the world, our series “All About Birthdays” brings you fun facts on everything birthday. Whether you’re a Scorpio or Sagittarius, this article will tell you everything you need to know about your zodiac sign and its associated flower.

Whether you start every morning by reading your horoscope or you only look at it from time to time, there’s no denying that it’s fun to learn what the stars have in store for you. But has astrology made its way down from the sky to Earth? While your zodiac may be written in the stars, there’s a corresponding flower that aligns with your astrological sign.

While most people know they have corresponding traits, likes, dislikes, and even numbers associated with their zodiac sign, few know that they also have an astrological flower. Every zodiac sign has a specific characteristics that connect to certain items in the physical world. Just like every month has a birthstone, every zodiac sign has a flower. Self-awareness rooted in astrology brings you closer to the stars in the sky and the flowers on the ground.

Take a look below to see what your flower sign is and the traits you both share!

Aries: March 21 – April 20

Flower: Honeysuckle

As the first sign in the zodiac, Aries signifies the start of something new. Aries are known for their youthful tendencies when it comes to interacting with the world around them — passionate, confident, and cheerful. With honeysuckle blooming in early spring — the season most associated with rebirth and new experiences — the two pair perfectly together! The lively reddish-pink color of the flower matches the fiery personality of an Aries.

Taurus: April 21 – May 21

Flower: Poppy

People born under the Taurus sign are strong, compassionate, and love being surrounded by love and natural beauty. Despite having beautiful blossoms, poppies are technically classified as weeds — they’re resilient, growing in even the most inhospitable landscapes. Just like a poppy flower, Tauruses stand their ground, especially on matters they’re passionate about, and exude beauty and positivity.

Gemini: May 22 – June 21

Flower: Lavender

Lavender’s exuberant appearance perfectly blends with a Gemini’s social and energetic nature. Lavender is known for its diverse uses, similar to a Gemini’s versatile personality. With a distaste for the bland and ordinary, lavender makes the perfect birthday present for the wonderfully unique Gemini in your life.

Cancer: June 22 – July 22

Flower: White rose

Cancers are known for being highly imaginative and emotional. Though they enjoy the adventure from time to time, Cancers find comfort in sticking to what they know. Like the delicate nature of people born under the feminine zodiac sign of Cancer, white roses are elegant, subtle, and universally adored. White roses symbolize purity and innocence, just like a Cancer’s sensitive nature. But, be gentle with this sign, because, just like their flower, they have a thorny side, too.

Leo: July 23 – August 22

Flower: Sunflower

Perhaps the only people more social and outgoing than Geminis are those born under the Leo sign. With their happy demeanor bringing a smile to everyone’s face they meet, it’s only natural that their flower is just as “sunny” as they are! Sunflowers get their loyal and bright characteristics from their tendency to turn their faces toward the sun. Similarly, Leos are not shy when it comes to stepping into the limelight and are attracted to being the center of attention.

Virgo: August 23 – September 23

Flower: Buttercup

Virgos may not always want to be the center of attention, but don’t let their shyness fool you. Once you get to know them, their fun-loving personality begins to show. Just like the subtly beautiful buttercup, Virgos are organized, neat, and enjoy (occasionally) blending into the background. The flowers most often symbolize neatness because of their sophisticated structure and design.

Libra: September 24 – October 23

Flower: Rose

Just like a classic rose, Libras are adored by everyone they meet. As a symbol of peace and love, roses perfectly complement a Libra’s passion for justice and strong sense of right and wrong. Libras can often mesh into any social atmosphere, as their calm demeanors and outgoing personalities can easily put a smile on anyone’s face, similar to the rose. Just like the Libra’s contagious warmth, roses also grow as weeds all around the world. They can’t help but spread the love everywhere they go!

Scorpio: October 24 – November 22

Flower: Geranium

Like the many petals of geraniums, Scorpios have many sides to them and never let anyone fully know what they’re thinking. Once you think you know a Scorpio, they’re quick to show you another, completely unexpected side of themselves. These symmetrical five-petal zodiac flowers grow in tight bunches, similar to a Scorpio’s tendency to keep a small circle of close friends and family around them. A Scorpio’s small circle will get to know a more sensitive side despite the outside world seeing them as a mystery. The geranium flower comes in many colors, just like Scorpios, so expect the unexpected from them.

Sagittarius: November 23 – December 21

Flower: Carnation

Like a carnation, those born under the sign of Sagittarius are strong yet beautiful. With Sagittariuses being known for their love of love, it makes sense that these zodiac flowers are paired with one of the most commonly chosen wedding flowers! Carnations are a symbol of love because they are often the longest lasting flowers in a bouquet. Sagittariuses are a fire sign, known for their adventurousness, just as a carnation blooms in branched or forked clusters. The fire sign does not like being tamed and will always carry an open mind in their endeavors.

Capricorn: December 22 – January 20

Flower: Pansy

Like a pansy, Capricorns seem to only get better with age! Known for being hardworking and tenacious, Capricorns enjoy showing off the fruits of their labor, similar to a newly sprung, showy pansy. Pansies are a popular bloom in the cooler months. The hardy plant can survive freezing conditions, unlike other plants that typically require sunny or partially sunny positions in well-draining soils. Capricorns, just like their zodiac flower, are warriors, even in the toughest conditions.

Aquarius: January 21 – February 19

Flower: Orchid

Don’t let an Aquarius’ shy demeanor fool you. While they can sometimes be quiet, they’re incredibly energetic and eccentric when around friends they trust. Plus, they’re wonderfully intelligent and diligent problem solvers. Naturally, a strong yet delicate-looking flower like the orchid makes the perfect gift for an Aquarius. The exotic shape of the plant aligns with the eccentric personality of an Aquarius. This sign may not be one to stand in the limelight, but they certainly don’t mind straying from the norm.

Pisces: February 20 – March 20

Flower: Water Lily

With their element being water and symbol being the two fish, perhaps no pair goes together better than a water lily and a Pisces. With a knack for art and all things whimsical, Pisces enjoy unique shows of affection. This water sign is known for being quite dreamy, imaginative, and sensitive. Their attitude for life is similar to the environment of water lilies — shallow ponds, lakes, and the edges of slow-moving streams. The charming Pisces is all about going with the flow.

10 Ways to Reuse a Vase After the Flowers Are Gone

There’s no better feeling than being surprised by a bouquet of flowers. Unfortunately, the blooms of celebratory flowers and just-b e cause bouquets don’t last forever. Once the flowers are past their prime, all that’s left is a memory and a vase. If you’re an avid flower recipient, you may have quite the collection of vases to show for it. But the life of a vase doesn’t have to end when the flowers are gone. You can repurpose of vase and make it your next coin jar, kitchen utensils holder, or bookend. Think of the vase as decorative and functional storage, and you’ll find good use for it.

Some vases, like many found at 1-800-Flowers.com, are designed with an afterlife in mind, says Valerie Ghitelman, Vice President of Product Development. “Most of our floral vases are created exclusively by us and cannot be found anywhere other than 1-800-Flowers.com,” she says.

“A vase with repurpose value makes the gift special and so much more meaningful to the recipient,” she says. “These types of containers have added value and versatility. They’re ‘keepers’ not only because they have another use, but because it is a fond memory and a reminder of the special person who sent them this exceptional gift.”

How can you repurpose a vase?

Rather than storing your vases in a closet or throwing them away, you can give them a new and practical life in your home.

An empty vase for serving drinks

Photo of a ceramic vase reused as a serving pitcher

A flower vase with a handle makes it easy to carry a bouquet and show it off to family and friends. Once the flowers are gone, these vases can easily serve a new purpose as pitchers for water, lemonade, tea and other drinks.

The Timeless Treasure Pitcher, for example, elegantly suggests Southern charm with a Swiss-dot pattern that wraps around the soft curves of the container. Designed in partnership with Southern Living magazine, it perfectly complements the original bouquet and its afterlife as a drink pitcher. The food-safe container also includes a simple recipe for Southern Sweet Tea.

“This is one of my favorite after-use vases because the design and the recipe blends so well together and it feels like a gift that keeps on giving,” Ghitelman says.

Repurposed vases for potpourri

Wilting flowers mark the beginning of their next journey as preserved petals and potpourri. Start by choosing flowers that will hold their color once dried. Good candidates include lavender, peonies, and roses. Steep the petals in an essential oil inside the vase for a long-lasting, natural scent for your home. The gray-washed wooden cube of our Coastal Breeze bouquet is the perfect place to store your potpourri. Its gray-washed wooden cube features soft, natural tones and textures, for a seamless addition to your coffee table or bookshelf.

Flower memories kept alive as a birthday keepsake

Photo of a flower vase repurposed as a holder of birthday mementos.

There’s nothing like receiving a beautiful bouquet on your birthday. Once the birthday festivities end and your flowers wilt, turn your leftover vase into a keepsake of all the mementos you received from loved ones. The vase included in the Happy Birthday Present Bouquet is a great place to keep handwritten cards or printed photographs. It’s the shape of a present complete with rainbow polka dots and a bright bow. The ceramic vase will bring you back to your birthday every time you open it. “Each handcrafted piece of art celebrates the special people and the most meaningful moments in our lives,” tells Ghitelman.

Empty vases as candle holders

Give your candles some glamor with any cylinder-shaped vase. Add an LED candle to the Yellow & White Delight Bouquet for a accentuated look for your home. This is a design hack for adding a hint of luxe to your home. “A lovely home décor accent that provides a lifetime of elegance and charm,” says Ghitelman.

A special vase creates an extraordinary nightlight

Photo of a flower vase before it's reused as a nightlight holder

Photo of a flower vase reused as a nightlight holder

Colorful glass make up many vases, like the Majestic Mosaic Hydrangea’s vase, which can be used as purely decorative or as a nightlight. “This distinctive vase can be used as an elegant tea light holder, where the light radiates from the inside creating a magnificent display of color,” explains Ghitelman. The colorful tiles will illuminate when you put in a LED candle and turn it on in the evening.

Reuse a vase to save your spare change

Prevent loose change from ending up in the crevices of the sofa and in random corners of the house by allocating a vase as the designated coin jar. Take your coin jar to the next level by labelling it with a long-term savings goal such as a travel destination or big purchase. This activity works especially well with graduation flowers since the recent grad will need a place to start stocking up on savings. Any large vase from the collection, such as this congratulatory rose plant, will provide plenty of space for a savings stash.

‘Tis the Season for Décor

Photo of a red flower vase with flowers before the vase is reused to hold potpourrithat can hold potpourri and other items

Photo of a red flower vase that can hold potpourri and other items

Sending and receiving flowers for the holidays is a wonderful way to spread the spirit. Just like the flowers, many of our vases reflect the holidays. “This luxurious holiday gift can hold wrapped candies or precious ornaments and can be a treasured décor piece for many years to come,” says Ghitelman.

Empty vases to support your own personal spa

Upgrade your self-care routine by filling up a vase with your favorite bath salts. A clear fishbowl vase, like the one that comes with the Smiling Surprise Bouquet, will function best in a bath setting for easy access.

This way, you’ll spruce up your tub décor and have bath salts at your disposal next time you wind down. Check out this lavender bath set, replete with bathing essentials, for the ultimate spa experience.

Repurposed vases can add glamor to your bookshelf

The vases that aren’t so easy to take items in and out of make for great bookends — especially if you love the designs. The Blush Posy Bouquet, for example, features an exclusive peach quartz mason jar with a unique honeycomb design. It makes for a decorative piece to style your shelves. Fill up your vase with marbles, seashells, or sand to give it some additional weight against the books.

Put fruit on display in a repurposed vase

Another use for the fishbowl vase is a container for your fresh fruit. Put in your apples, bananas, and pears to grab and go. More air circulation will maintain fruit freshness. This repurpose is aesthetically pleasing and practical for your kitchen.

Can’t find a new use for a favorite vase? You can always refill it with a fresh set of blooms. Buying flowers for yourself is a great form of self-care and an empty vase is the perfect excuse to do so. In fact, treat yourself every month to fresh flowers through our subscription program.

Different Types of Sorority Flowers

When people hear the word “sorority,” they don’t normally associate it with flowers. But most of these Greek organizations have a flower association that ties into their traditions. There are 26 nationally recognized social sororities that each have their own special sorority flowers to further identify themselves.

Flowers are a component of sorority ceremonies, and are used as decorations at sorority events. New members, or “sisters,” are also typically given the sorority’s flower on the day they are initiated as a welcoming gift.

Sororities that use roses

sorority flowers with Multicolored Sorority Roses

Roses are not only beautiful but often symbolize love and appreciation, which is why many sororities use them as symbols.

Alpha Gamma Delta (ΑΓΔ) uses red and buff-colored roses with green asparagus ferns.
Alpha Omicron Pi (ΑΟΠ) uses the jacqueminot rose.
Alpha Sigma Tau (ΑΣΤ) is known to use the yellow rose.
Alpha Xi Delta (ΑΞΔ) is represented by the pink rose.
Delta Gamma’s (ΔΓ) flower is the Delta Gamma cream-colored rose.
Delta Zeta (ΔΖ) represents itself with the pink Killarney rose.
Theta Phi Alpha (ΘΦΑ) and Kappa Delta (ΚΔ) both use white roses as their flower.
Sigma Delta Tau (ΣΔΤ) uses golden tea roses to represent itself.
Phi Sigma Sigma (ΦΣΣ) identifies itself with the American beauty rose.

Sororities that use carnations

sorority flowers with Pink Carnations for Sororities

Carnations are a very versatile flower and come in a variety of colors, making it easy for sororities to choose the variety and color that best represents themselves.

Alpha Chi Omega (ΑΧΩ) is represented by the red carnation.
Gamma Phi Beta (ΓΦΒ) uses a pink carnation.
Pi Beta Phi (ΠΒΦ) uses wine carnations.
Phi Mu (ΦΜ) uses rose color carnations.
Chi Omega (ΧΩ) represents itself with white carnations.

Sororities with purple flowers

Purple flowers and flowers in the purple family are also commonly used by many sororities to represent themselves. With purple often symbolizing confidence, wisdom, and courage, among other strong character traits, it is the perfect fit.

Alpha Delta Pi (ΑΔΠ), Zeta Tau Alpha (ΖΤΑ), Sigma Kappa (ΣΚ), and Sigma Sigma Sigma (ΣΣΣ) all use different color violets as their flowers of choice.
The woodland violet is used by Alpha Delta Pi (ΑΔΠ).
The white violet, which is mainly a white flower with hints of purple in the center, is used by Zeta Tai Alpha (ΖΤΑ).
The wild purple violet is used by Sigma Kappa (ΣΚ).
Delta Phi Epsilon (ΔΦΕ) uses purple irises.

Sororities with unique flowers

Some sororities have chosen more unique flowers to identify themselves.

Lily of the valley is used by both Alpha Epsilon Phi (ΑΕΦ) and Alpha Phi (ΑΦ).
Forget-me-nots and lily of the valley are used by Alpha Phi.
The pansy is used by Delta Delta Delta (ΔΔΔ).
The black and gold pansy is used by Kappa Alpha Theta (ΚΑΘ).
The fleur-de-lis is Kappa Kappa Gamma’s (ΚΚΓ) flower of choice.
Narcissus and aster are used by Alpha Sigma Alpha (ΑΣΑ).

The Origin and Meanings of Flower Tattoos

With their bright colors, fascinating shapes, and undeniable beauty, flowers are a natural inspiration for canvases of all kinds — including the human body. Flower tattoos are an ancient form of artistic self-expression, and they have a lot of symbolism. Every carefully drawn line and detailed shading tells a multifaceted story that is truly more than skin deep.

Origin of flower tattoos

Flower tattoos date back to the beginning of tattooing itself. While there is no specific start date for the art, historians have traced permanent inking back 5,000 years to Otzi the Iceman. After hikers discovered Iceman in the Alps in 1991, Historians concluded the Iceman lived between 3400 B.C. and 3100 B.C. The Iceman’s mummified body had 61 tattoos.

Many cultures developed their own meaning and styles for traditional tattoos over the years. While permanent pigments are increasingly popular today, tattoos were once used as a form of punishment and were largely taboo in many religions in the 19th century.

Floral is a popular choice that spans different styles and techniques and has been a favorite since the early days of tattooing.

Why flowers?

Flowers are known for their rich sy m bolism, derived from folklore, legends, and mythology from different cultures around the world. These age-old stories have been further developed by artists like Van Gogh (sunflowers, anyone?) and writers such as Shakespeare in poems, plays, and novels.

Flowers can also be tied to individual identities. For example, America has a flower for each state, and we all have a flower for our birth month. And every flower has multiple stories and meanings behind it, depending on the cultural context.

Jade Gleitsman, a floral tattoo lover, sports a California poppy on her foot. “I got this tattoo because I am from California and had been traveling in Europe for a year and was missing home,” she explains. “Flower tattoos are popular because they can be ascetically pleasing, and they can represent so many variations and styles.” The meaning of flower tattoos will ultimately differ from individual to individual.

A flower tattoo can commemorate your hometown, romantic partner, or even family history, but even just the simple beauty of flowers is enough for people to get one inked. When we mark our bodies, we can inhabit the older, traditional stories or create new ones for ourselves. Either way, flowers give us plenty of ways to share our feelings, whether we choose freshly picked, painted, or tattooed.

Meaning of popular flower tattoos

Roses

The rose is the most popular flower in the U.S., so of course, it’s one of the most popular flower tattoos too. Roses are a symbol of love, so they are a common tattoo for lovers to get together. Roses with thorns, however, have associations with pain, and particularly the loss of a loved one. The different colors of the flowers reflect different meanings.

Sunflowers

Just like the real-life blooms, sunflower tattoos are incredibly striking. A sunflower’s vibrant yellow and impressive size makes it stand out from the crowd — something it likely has in common with the person wearing it. Sunflowers are commonly associated with good luck, happiness, and new beginnings.

Tulips

Like sunflowers, tulips make wonderful tattoos when inked in full color. As a bulb flower, the tulip is incredibly resilient and comes back to life year after year. As they symbolize rebirth and determination, tulips are a popular choice for people who have recently overcome a difficult obstacle.

Lavender

These flowers represent devotion, grace, and calmness, while the color purple also has associations with royalty and luxury. Lavender has many medicinal properties and can be used for healing, so this a popular tattoo for people who have overcome illness. (For more lavender facts, check out our post all about lavender meanings and symbolism!)

Daisies

Generally preferred by women, daisies are beautifully delicate and feminine, so they are the perfect small flower tattoo. Traditionally they have symbolized innocence and purity, which makes them a popular commemorative tattoo for a loved one who has died.

Carnations

The carnation is the official Mother’s Day flower and a popular choice for new mothers and people who have recently lost their mothers. Mothers and daughters often get matching carnation tattoos.

Lilies

In recent years, lilies have come to be closely associated with Christianity, as they’re believed to symbolize the Virgin Mary, Easter, death, and rebirth. Lilies have long represented devotion, commitment, and friendship.

Lotus

Even though they typically grow in muddy water, lotus flowers are known for their beauty and grace. That’s why many people see the lotus as a symbol for persevering through the hard times or “muddy waters” in life and coming out the other side stronger and more accomplished because of it.

Orchids

Known by the Greeks as the “Flower of Magnificence,” the orchid belongs to one of the largest flower families on earth, with more than 27,000 species. It’s no surprise, then, that these flowers are found in nearly every part of the world. Orchids are most popular in Asian countries.

Hibiscus

The hibiscus flower holds many different meanings depending on the region. In China, it is closely related to femininity, beauty, and purity; however, in Korean culture, the hibiscus is a symbol of immortality. The hibiscus is the state flower of Hawaii, and there the bright bloom stands for freedom and ease.