Mother’s Day, dedicated to honouring the remarkable women who brought us into the world and nurtured us, is celebrated with love and appreciation in many countries. One of the cherished traditions associated with Mother’s Day is the gifting of flowers. This tradition has deep historical roots in the United Kingdom, evolving over the years into the beloved custom we know today. In this blog, we’ll journey through time to uncover the fascinating history of Mother’s Day flowers in the UK.

The Victorian Era: A Floral Resurgence

The tradition of giving flowers to mothers can be traced back to the Victorian era in the United Kingdom. The language of flowers, also known as “floriography,” was at its zenith during this period. People used flowers to convey sentiments and emotions when words fell short. This language of flowers played a significant role in the blossoming of Mother’s Day flower gifting.

The Victorians were known for their elaborate flower arrangements and the use of flowers as symbols. Different blooms carried specific meanings, making crafting deeply meaningful floral gifts possible. Carnations, in particular, were associated with motherly love. White carnations symbolized pure love, while pink represented admiration.

The Influence of Anna Jarvis

The modern Mother’s Day we celebrate today has its roots in the early 20th century when Anna Jarvis, an American, campaigned for an official day to honour mothers. Her efforts led to the official proclamation of Mother’s Day in the United States in 1914. Inspired by Anna Jarvis, the tradition of honouring mothers with flowers soon crossed the Atlantic to the UK.

As the tradition gained momentum, florists in the UK saw an opportunity to celebrate this day by selling bouquets. Honouring mothers with floral gifts through efficient Mother’s Day flower delivery resonated deeply with the British public. Soon, Mother’s Day became synonymous with the gift of beautiful blooms, especially carnations and roses.

The Influence of World War II

Giving Mother’s Day flowers gained even more prominence during World War II. Many sons and daughters were separated from their mothers due to the war, and sending flowers became a poignant way to express love and gratitude despite the distance. Flowers provided solace and a connection to home during challenging times.

The Modern Era: A Flower for Every Mother

Today, the tradition of giving flowers on Mother’s Day in the UK continues to flourish. While carnations remain popular, there is a wide array of flowers to choose from, each carrying its significance. Roses symbolize love and gratitude, while lilies represent devotion. Chrysanthemums convey respect, and daisies symbolize innocence and purity.

Florists across the UK offer a vast selection of floral arrangements and bouquets designed specifically for Mother’s Day. From traditional choices to modern and innovative designs, a flower arrangement suits every taste and budget.

The Role of E-commerce and Convenience

In recent years, the rise of e-commerce has made it easier than ever to send flowers to your mother on her special day. Online florists offer a wide range of options, allowing you to select the perfect bouquet and deliver it directly to your doorstep. This convenience of getting their Mother’s Day flowers delivered in time has made it possible for people to continue the tradition of gifting flowers, even if they are miles away from their mothers.

The Evergreen Tradition

The tradition of Mother’s Day flowers in the UK has a rich history that spans centuries. From the elaborate floral arrangements of the Victorian era to the symbolic meanings of different blooms, flowers have always played a significant role in expressing love and gratitude to mothers.

Inspired by Anna Jarvis’s efforts and influenced by World War II’s hardships, this tradition remains an evergreen way to show appreciation for the incredible women who have shaped our lives. Today, with the convenience of online flower delivery, expressing love on Mother’s Day through a beautiful bouquet is as easy and meaningful as ever. So, this Mother’s Day, let a bouquet be your heartfelt message of love and gratitude to the remarkable woman who has been there for you through thick and thin.

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