Flowers are often the last decision in an event plan, chosen for colour and little else. I prefer to begin with meaning. When guests learn why each flower is on the table, the arrangement stops being decoration and becomes part of the story of the evening.

Peony

The anchor. A romance flower, chosen for honour, abundance and a happy life. It sets the tone of the whole piece.

Garden rose

For grace and quiet devotion. The roses hold the centre and warm the deeper crimson of the peonies.

Lady's mantle

The chartreuse haze. A flower of comfort, and the contrast that makes the pinks sing.

Astilbe

The feathered, dried plume. Patience, kept past its prime, as a note on time and texture.

Bringing it to your event

Choose an anchor flower that carries the main idea of the occasion, then build around it with supporting stems for colour, contrast and texture. Share the meanings with your guests, on a menu, a place card or a small printed note, so the flowers can speak for themselves.

A flower for every intention: the meanings of peony, garden rose, lady's mantle and astilbe