French Flower Etiquette

What other nationalities think are just chrysanthemums, the French only use for Toussaints (all Saints Day November 1) and decorating tombs. So what should you know about flowers before selecting your wedding flowers or perhaps visiting your future mother in law in France?

Red carnations are also not to be given as a gift. They send a message of ill will.

Red roses can be offered but only if you are in love with that person.

Do not give all yellow flower bouquets as this implies unfaithfulness.

Avoid an all-white bouquet as this color is only used for weddings.

All White Roses

Great for a Wedding!

Only offer an odd-number of flowers. Not a dozen roses, but 11. (Not 13, either…bad luck! So much for a ‘baker’s dozen)

Red poppies are only for Remembrance Day or Armistace Day on November 11

Lily of the Valley is given for ‘bonheur’ on May 1st. or May Day. The French call Lily of Valley “Muguet.” Anyone can sell gathered Lily of the Valley and sell and you will see vendors begin selling these flowers in April.

If you’re unsure what is the best flower bouquet to give, the French florists know everything as they go through a rigourous training process to become a florist. Say “pour offrir” and the flowers will be hand-tied and wrapped in paper and tied with ribbon.

The details of packaging when buying in France is one of my favorite things. Flower bouquets are no exception. And if you have no one to whom to give flowers, treat yourself!

May Day in France

Giving Good Wishes