Since the early days of human civilization, different flowers have held spiritual and social meanings.  These meanings have evolved and changed over the years: the Victorians (who used flowers to convey coded messages by sending posies of specific flowers) regarded carnations as an insult, while today they are a popular flower in gift bouquets; poppies were once thought of as evil, yet after the war they began to symbolize peace and hope.  If you want to incorporate some floralsymbolism in your wedding flowers, here is a list of popular choices for wedding flowers and their meanings.:

Undoubtedly, the most popular flower used in wedding bouquets is the red rose, and we all know what that signifies:  love and passion.   Those who are selecting roses for their bouquets are mixing white, pink and yellow roses for a beautiful and elegant pop of colour.

Roses are often surrounded by a spray of white baby’s breath.  The contrasting colors of deep red and snow white is beautiful but did you know that  baby’s breath actually signifies innocence?  While most often used as filler, some brides find that filling the hall with baby’s breath alone can add drama and beauty to the ceremony.

Lilies are another popular choice for brides.  The elegant calla lily means "magnificent beauty" and the Lily of the valley signifies "happiness". 

Delicate and exotic orchids are carried to display a sense of grace and beauty. 

It’s small wonder that some wedding halls and churches are covered in ivy.  The ivy has come to represent fidelity and marriage.

Magnolias are popular in the southern part of the United States, carrying a sense of nobility and tradition.  

Pink and white peonies represent modesty and bashfulness, while lilacs are a symbol of youthful innocence. 

Bluebells are said to signify gratitude and humility.

Brides of today who are shying away from traditional red roses are likely to choose their wedding flowers by colour rather than meaning, but it’s fun to discover what your choice of wedding flowers truly represents. Wedding themes and colors are more vibrant this year than ever before, and as a result, brides are choosing unconventional flowers such as bright orange Gerbera daisies, orchids, tulips, and even sunflowers to add colour and drama to the affair.   Find a full list of flowers and their meanings at the New York Botanical Gardens blog.   There are also some great histories behind flowers as well as a huge range of photographs to help you decide what to use in your wedding arrangements and bouquets at FlowerInfo.org.