The origin of Valentine’s Day can be traced back to ancient Rome, although what happened to martyred Saint Valentine was not about love. The Victorians gave us the holiday of love we celebrate today.

Social etiquette resulted in extreme censorship of what was considered appropriate conversation. But society was increasingly moving away from arranged marriages and embracing “companionate marriage,” a marriage based on mutual affection, emotional satisfaction, and love.

What were lovers to do if they couldn’t talk about how they felt?

Once Great Britain passed the Uniform Penny Post, they could send Valentine’s cards. Artful creations featuring colored illustrations and embossed borders flooded the postal system–hundreds of thousands of them. Postal carriers were given a special allowance to stop for refreshments during the long days of delivery!

In addition to cards, the Victorians had flowers.  What did the different flowers mean? Particularly the flower of love, the rose?

The constant is that decades later, we still think of red roses if we want to express the truest love. After that, we’re in unknown territory.

A red rose bud meant pure and lovely. A burgundy rose meant unconscious beauty–presumably a compliment.  Deep red meant bashful shame. Pink roses suggested a passing fancy– don’t expect rings to follow.

A white rose announced “I am worthy of you.” Red and white roses together meant unity. A cabbage, or garden, rose was an “ambassador of love.”

Lavender roses might convey love at first sight. Peach roses could signify sincerity and gratitude.  A yellow rose inferred jealousy or infidelity–a sentiment we have obviously left in the nineteenth century.

In 2023, roses, in all shades, are the perfect way to express affection and love. Ready to speak the language of flowers?

VIEW OUR VALENTINE’S DESIGNS