Taking a look back through history to refresh our minds and decipher any messages hidden using the 'Language of Flowers'
As the big day approaches the nation eagerly awaits the unveiling of yet another spectacular Royal wedding. With the insight we have been given by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, we are expecting to see Peonies, Garden Roses and Foxgloves implying a wild garden feel, with a possibility of colour? With the anticipation growing to see how these flowers will be brought together to create Meghan’s bouquet and transform St George’s Chapel, I decided to take a look back to remind us of the previous royal flower selections and the myths and messages encrypted within the choices.
Dating back centuries it has been tradition to hold or wear a mixture of flowers, herbs & spices, certain varieties such as garlic thought to ward of evil spirits or ivy and the herb myrtle to assure good luck. Flowers took a more fashionable lead role after Queen Victoria made it so when she married Prince Albert and the “language of flowers” blossomed. Taking a look at some of the most traditionally used flowers in wedding arrangements we can sometimes find a hidden message in Royal love.
Lily of the Valley – Sweetness; Tears of the Virgin Mary; Return to Happiness; Humility; You've Made My Life Complete
Myrtle – Love; Hebrew Emblem of Marriage
Orchids – Love; Beauty; Humility; Beautiful Lady; Chinese Symbol for Many Children
It’s a language used less and less, but in its prime it was the most beautiful way, I believe, for one to receive a message.
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Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria’s bouquet itself was a small posy made solely of snowdrops, said to be Albert’s favourite. A sprig of myrtle was also added, starting a royal tradition for years to come. It is said that each brides bouquet has a sprig from the very same bush Queen Victoria’s sprig came from, a bush grown from a cutting Prince Albert brought from Coburg.
Orange Blossoms were worn in a grand wreath, creating a sweet smell for all, and setting the floral trend for brides to be. This sweet smelling flower also has mythical connotations to fertility.
Over the next couple of days I will look at the Royal brides and their flowers in a little more detail, possibly decipher any hidden messages and create some bouquet recipes’ so you can then group the flowers together to create your own bouquet.
Bouquet Recipe:
And a Flower Crown made of Orange Blossom
Look out for more posts in the lead up to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's big day !