Romance has long been inextricably linked to different types of flowers symbolizing different emotions. Find out how this tradition is carried on to celebrate wedding anniversaries.

 The beauty of flowers and the celebration of love are harmonious – so much so that it's difficult to remember a time when we didn't associate romance with the delight of receiving a fragrant fresh anniversary bouquet.

While roses are truly the quintessential messengers of love (a surefire way to celebrate a new love or romantic milestone), during the Victorian era, couples also used other varieties of fresh flowers to send messages to each other – each expressing a different heartfelt emotion. Those meanings are carried on today as ways to commemorate each wedding anniversary with floral gifts.

1st. Anniversary - Carnation:  The Red Carnation is a symbolization of admiration whereas the White Carnation represents pure and innocent love. The delicate pink bloom carnation says “I'll never forget you,” the carnation – with its long-lasting qualities and clove-like delicate fragrance – embodies joy and commitment promised for years to come.

2nd Anniversary - Lily of the Valley:  Signifying happiness and purity of heart, lilies of the valley have long been associated with humility and devotion. Legend has it that a nightingale's affection for this beautiful flower was so strong that it wouldn't return to the woods until the flower bloomed in spring.

Sunflower

3rd Anniversary: It's said that a gift of sunflowers signifies a "devout admirer." Representing strength, warmth and nourishment – all attributes of the sun itself – the way in which a sunflower turns to follow the sun symbolizes deep loyalty and constancy.

Hydrangea

4th Anniversary: With lush globes filled with a delicate lace of small petals, the hydrangea symbolizes both gratefulness and pride – celebrating heartfelt praise and appreciation.

Daisy

5th Anniversary: While the well-known legend carried over from Victorian times has it that maidens would pluck a daisy's petals one by one to predict their romantic future, daisies are also known to indicate innocence, purity and gentleness on behalf of both the giver and recipient, declaring: "You have as many virtues as this flower has petals."

Calla Lily

6th Anniversary: The Calla – with its trumpet-shaped blooms and graceful, slender profile – is a symbol of transition and growth, reflecting the beauty and pride gained from shared wisdom over time. 

Freesia

7th Anniversary: A symbol of trust and fidelity, Freesia is an antidote to the proverbial saying that the seventh year of marriage provokes restlessness. Representing faithfulness through the seasons, it's a traditional reminder of love's honorable character.