Before proposing: the meaning of roses
Roses have a long history as symbols of love and admiration. In Greek mythology, for example, Aphrodite gave a rose to the god of love, Eros. Even if you are not a god of love, few things add to the romance of a perfect proposal more than a bouquet of beautiful flowers. Almost everyone knows that red roses are symbols of passion. Most people know to associate a black rose with death (which means you probably don’t want to propose to a black rose, right?). However, what about other roses? Before handing that special someone a handful of white rosebuds, you may want to verify the message you are sending.
Rosebud
Just as a rosebud has not reached full flower, it also represents thoughts and emotions that have not yet matured. Although the exact meaning changes with the color of the rose, rosebuds in general are connected with beauty, youth, and a heart that has yet to experience love.
Full bloom
If a rosebud means youth and innocence, a rose in full bloom does not strike. Talk about a wish fulfilled or a promise fulfilled. It may be the desire for love, an expression of jealousy, or the promise of death, but it is there for all it is worth.
Red rose
Yes, the red rose is the rose of love. Therefore, it is the favorite color of lovers everywhere. It also carries the meanings of desire, passion, courage, respect, and congratulations. Remember though … even though red means passion, a red rosebud means ‘pure and charming’, and it can send the message that your love hasn’t reached that point yet!
White Rose
A white rose conveys the message of innocence and purity, heavenly, secret, silence and charm. A white rosebud indicates childhood rather than femininity. Beautiful messages for your daughter, but maybe not for the woman you want to be your wife. However, if you want to wear a white rose, pair it with red. The two of you together represent unity, which will be a great transition to a marriage proposal!
Pink rose
The pink rose is a good possibility when you ask the question, as it represents perfect happiness. It also sends the message of gentleness and grace. Dark pink expresses appreciation. Pink also says, “Please believe me.” You can determine for yourself if that message works for you!
yellow Rose
Unless yellow is your little girl’s favorite color, or she lives in Texas, you may want to avoid this color. Yellow can represent joy, but it also speaks of friendship or jealousy. Or do you want to be “just friends”?
Orange rose
If you want to say it with flowers, but not with red flowers, orange is a surprisingly good option. Along with peach and coral colors, orange speaks of enthusiasm, desire, and fascination. Be careful with the shade though … pale peach is synonymous with modesty.
Black or dark crimson rose
As stated in the introduction, black roses symbolize death. Dark crimson roses, while not having the same sense of apprehension, are associated with grief. So save these flowers for if you say no. (Just kidding … that’s just creepy).
Although we have mentioned some of the most common roses and their meanings, this is only the beginning. A rose without thorns expresses love at first sight, a tea rose says you will always remember it, and a moss rose is a confession of love. The number of roses and the way you combine them can say long before you say a word.
When it comes down to it, flowers mean what we want them to mean. If your girlfriend loves white rosebuds, then that should be your pick, no matter what meaning they are supposed to have. Thought and attention are what count. If you take the time to spell out your message with flowers, you won’t fail to send that message straight to the heart of your future fiancé.