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Common Flowers, by Occasion

Occasion Hero

Flowers have carried special meaning for specific occasions for centuries. A few familiar garden flowers, matched to the moments they suit best.

For Milestones and Good News

Alstroemeria symbolizes aspiration — fitting for a graduation, new job, or any personal achievement. Apple blossom stands for promise, a natural choice when formalizing a relationship or marking a new commitment. Baby's breath, a staple of nearly every bouquet, historically signifies festivity, making it right at home in arrangements for birthdays, anniversaries, and celebrations of all kinds. Stephanotis carries a meaning of good luck, most familiar in bridal bouquets but equally fitting for a new job or a move.

For Support and Friendship

Black-eyed Susan represents encouragement — a fitting choice through hard times, a job loss, or a loss in the family. Yarrow's association with good health makes it a natural "get well soon" flower. Zinnia symbolizes thoughts of friends, a good pick for someone you've missed or want to cheer up. And the daffodil's traditional meaning of chivalry has long made it a flower a young man gives to someone he admires.

QUICK TIP

There's no strict rulebook here — historic meanings are a nice starting point, but the flower that feels right to you and the person you're giving it to is always the right choice.

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