Mother's Day Gift Guide

Mother's Day is a time to celebrate the extraordinary women who raised us, nurtured us, and continue to hold a special place in our lives. Choosing the perfect gift often presents a delightful challenge, and flowers have long been a cherished expression of love and appreciation.

 

This guide to Mother's Day flower ideas helps you navigate various options to find the perfect bouquet.

A celebration of mums: A historical look at Mother’s Day

Mother's Day's roots reach back to ancient civilisations like the Greeks and Romans, who held celebrations honouring mothers and goddesses. However, the modern version is credited to American activist Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century.

 

Inspired by her own mother's activism and dedication, Anna campaigned to establish a dedicated day for mothers. After her own mother's passing in 1905, she organised events and lobbied politicians, eventually holding the first official Mother's Day celebration in 1907 at her mother's church. By 1914, President Wilson declared the second Sunday of May as Mother's Day in the US.

 

The tradition of gifting flowers on Mother's Day also emerged around this time. Carnations became the unofficial symbol due to their affordability, long vase life, and diverse colours. Anna Jarvis herself used carnations at her mother's memorial service, and the association stuck.

Cut to today, and the tradition of gifting carnations on Mother's Day endures across the globe. Different carnation colours even hold specific meanings: pink for gratitude, peach or orange for friendship and sincerity, and white for remembering mothers who have sadly passed away

Which flowers are best for Mother's Day?

Choosing the best flower for Mother's Day isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The beauty lies in the diversity of options available, allowing you to select something that truly reflects her personality and your unique relationship with her.

While classic pink roses are a popular choice, consider her personal preferences. Does she love bold colours, or prefer delicate pastels? Is she drawn to traditional arrangements or something more modern and whimsical? Picking something that reflects her personality is a win-win

What are the most popular Mother's Day flowers?

While there's no guaranteed number one, some flowers consistently steal the floral crown:

Carnations: Stemming (pardon the pun) from their use at the first Mother's Day celebration, carnations remain a popular Mother's Day flower. Their affordability, long vase life, and diverse colours make them a practical and enduring symbol of love, gratitude, and admiration.

Roses: Roses come in a spectrum of colours, each conveying a distinct message. Red remains a classic symbol of passionate love, while pink expresses appreciation and admiration. Peach roses, with their soft, warm hues, can signify a heartfelt "thank you" or "I miss you”.

Peonies: Peonies, literally bursting with vibrant colours and a captivating fragrance, represent prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. A bouquet of peonies is a wonderful way to remind Mum of the joy and happiness she brings to your life.

● Lilies: White lilies, often associated with purity and innocence, can symbolise the everlasting bond you share with your mum. Pink lilies, with their gentle touch, symbolise adoration and deep affection.

● Freesias: Known for their amazing fragrance, there are one of women’s favourite flowers.

What are some Mother’s Day gift alternatives?

While flowers are a traditional Mother's Day gift, there are many other beautiful and thoughtful options available. Here are three unique alternatives to consider:

 

● Succulents: These low-maintenance plants are a popular choice for those who don't have a lot of time to care for greenery. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, and can be easily arranged in a sweet decorative pot.

● Air plants: Air plants are unique plants that don't need soil to grow. They absorb moisture from the air, making them a great option for those who forget to water their plants regularly. They can be displayed in a variety of ways, such as in terrariums or hanging planters.

Flowering houseplants: Flowering houseplants are a beautiful and long-lasting gift that will continue to bloom throughout the year. Some popular options include African violets, orchids, and azaleas.

Looking to express your love with flowers this Mother's Day? Eflorist offers stunning Mother’s Day bouquets hand delivered by couriers or local florists.