Moms have always held a special place in our hearts, long before a date was designated in their honor. Ancient Greeks and Romans held festivals to honor maternal goddesses. Early Christians began their own tradition of honoring the Virgin Mary, Mother of Christ, during Lent season. Lilium Floral Design, a Park Place Preferred Partner, and our clients’ go-to custom floral designer shares the history of Mothers Day as it is associated with the gift of giving floral bouquets.
In the 17th century, England expanded this practice to include all mothers, calling it Mothering Sunday. Following a special prayer service, children would bring gifts and flowers to pay tribute to their own mothers.
Today’s moms can thank Julia Ward Howe for visualizing Mother’s Day as we know it in the United States. In the late 1800s, Howe, an abolitionist, suffragette and writer famous for penning the Battle Hymn of the Republic, suggested a national celebration of mothers that would be dedicated to peace. She encouraged women to rise up against war in her Mothers Day Proclamation and initiated Mothers’ Peace Day. It was Anna Jarvis, however, who took the concept to the next level. Jarvis, who had no children of her own but wanted to honor her own mother, lobbied for Mother’s Day to be named an official holiday. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a Joint Resolution designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.
Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated in 46 countries. While many have their own unique traditions, it customary to honor mothers with flowers, cards, gifts and family meals. In Australia, carnations are worn–red or pink carnations honor a mom still living, and white is worn in memory of a mom who is deceased. Chrysanthemums are also a popular choice because Australian mothers are typically called “Mum.” Japanese children present their mothers with red carnations, which represent gentle strength. Here in the U.S., we tend to select flowers we know are mom’s favorites. The Spring season offers many blooms, including roses, tulips, hydrangea, hyacinths, lilies, and orchids.
While Lilium is a custom florist, Mother’s Day is one occasion when we do design a menu from which customers can order. This ensures we have an ample supply of fresh Spring florals to meet the high demand of this special day. To view our 2018 Mother’s Day designs, visit our website. Orders may be placed online, or by calling 817-481-1565.
Lilim Florals is one of our newest preferred partners, so as a Park Place client we encourage you to visit them and take advantage of some exclusive offers and opportunities.