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Roses are possibly the most beloved of flowers, rivalling classics such as lily of the valley, stephanotis and gardenia as the enduring emblem of bridal grace.
The rose is an iconographic symbol with as many intricacies as there are possibilities for using them in the floral design of your wedding.
The Language Of Flowers
Roses have endless symbolic meanings. Lets take a look at some of the symbolism now:.
- White and red roses together = unity
- Orange roses = fascination
- Coral roses = desire
- Pale pink roses = grace
- Lavender roses = enchantment
- Red roses = true love.
There are of course some "negative" connotations to roses as well:
- Yellow roses = infidelity
- White rosebuds = a heart that is ignorant of love
- Primroses = inconstancy
- Deep, dark red roses = bashful shame
Communication & Quality
According to the Society of American Florists, there are close to 120 varieties of roses commercially available. This means that deciding on the composition of your wedding flowers will be a multicolored and possibly mystifying experience.
When meeting with floral designers, try to convey the look and feel you want the roses to have using pictures and descriptive language, or just talk color.
Try not to insist that the designer use a particular variety because on your wedding day, the rose you selected might not be available or might have flaws. Trust that your floral designer will adhere to your provisions and work with the most beautiful roses available.
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Design Strategies
The types of roses used in bouquets and arrangements will vary according to region and to the look you want. There are a few popular types at the moment:
- Black Magic - a velvety, mysterious, dark red
- Leonidas - rust-colored with copper-tipped petals
- Circus - two-toned bright orange and gold
Traditional brides might prefer to work with classic lavender roses like "Sterling Silver" or the consummate whites: "Virginia", "Bianca", or "Vendela" favored by Jennifer Aniston who used Vendelas in her bridal bouquet.
You may even want your florist to use roses in offbeat colors such as mango, fuchsia and purple, especially at a casual wedding.
Unconventional Use
Roses lend themselves to all sorts of stylishly unconventional uses as well. Create rose-scented astringents, lotions and potpourri sachets to give as bridesmaid gifts. Have your flower girls tote rose-studded pomanders or "kissing balls" in lieu of baskets of petals. Instead of towering, formal centerpieces, scatter rose petals spontaneously on the tables and dance floor. Some roses are edible, ideal for whimsical presentations, so talk to your caterer about sprinkling some petals in the salads you serve in the reception, or float them in glasses of pastel-colored punch.
Finally, when you draw baths during the honeymoon, heap several handfuls into the water!
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