Flowers have an expression of countenance as much as men and animals. Some seem to smile; some have a sad expression; some are pensive and diffident; others again are plain, honest and upright, like the broad-faced sunflower and the hollyhock. The beauty and symbolism of flowers lend a special meaning to many of the most important occasions in our lives. A fragrant bouquet or a colorful, carefully crafted arrangement of the freshest blossoms enhances any decoration scheme.

Fresh flowers can enhance any chosen setting, often making the most lasting impression. When it comes to choosing a shape, the florist may create any number of pleasing designs. Roses, buttercups, lilacs, and lilies of the valley; roses, ranunculus, and bachelor's buttons; stephanotis, sweet peas, and forsythia--the limitless colors, combinations, and heady fragrances are easily translated into unforgettable arrangements by a floral designer. One can create rich contrasts and dramatic shapes or delicate shades worked with different flowers.

There is a traditional meaning attached to each flower, that stands with their own significance and importance.

Acacia = Friendship Agapanthus = Secret Love Amaryllis = Pride, Timidity, Splendid Beauty Anemone = Forsaken Aster = Afterthought Azalea = First love, Temperance Belles of Ireland = Good Luck Bouvardia = Enthusiasm Buttercup = Childishness Caladium = Great joy and delight Calla = Magnificent beauty Camellia, Red = Unpretending excellence Camellia, White = Perfected loveliness Carnation, Red = Alas poor heart Carnation, Pink = I'll never forget you Carnation, Purple = Capriciousness Carnation, Striped = Sorry I can't be with you Carnation, White = Innocence Carnation, Yellow = Disdain Chrysanthemum, Red = Love Chrysanthemum, White = Truth Chrysanthemum, Yellow = Slighted love Crocus = Youthful gladness Daffodil = Regard, You are the only one Daisy = Innocence Dandelion = Rustic oracle Fern = Fascination Fleur-de-Lis = Flame: I burn Forget-Me-Not = True love Freesia = Innocence Galax = Encouragement Gardenia = You are lovely Gladiolus = Strength of character

Lilac, Purple = First emotion of life Lilac, White = Youthful innocence Lily, Orange = Wealth Lily, White = Sweetness Lily, Yellow = Gaiety, walking on air Lily of the Valley = Return of happiness Lotus Flower = Estranged love Magnolia = Love of nature Marigold = Grief Myrtle = Home, love Narcissus = Egotism Orangeblossom = Purity Orchid = A belle Pansy = Thoughts Peony = Bashfulness Queen Anne's Lace = Haven Rose = Love Rose, Burgundy = Unconscious love Rose, Deep Red = Bashful Rose, Pink = Perfect happiness Rose, White = I am worthy of you Rose, Yellow = Decrease of love, Jealousy Rose, Red & White together = Unity Snapdragon = Presumption Statice = Remembrance Stephanotis = Happiness in marriage Stock = Lasting beauty Tulip = Fame Tulip, Red = Declaration of love Wall-Flower = Fidelity in adversity Wax Flower = Riches Yarrow = Healing