Everything You Need to Know About Rose Bouquets

Is there anything more romantic than a rose bouquet? Synonymous with romance, friendship, and passion, roses have been associated with everything from the Greek Goddess Aphrodite to Valentine's Day. Rose bouquets are universally adored and the birth flower for June. Nicknamed the 'Queen of Flowers', roses are the perfect way to say 'I love you'.

Our 101 luxury red roses are amongst our best-selling bouquets year-round. Rose bouquets are a gift for every occasion, whether you’re shopping for a new mum or sending Christmas flowers. At Chelsea Florals, we offer local delivery on our luxury rose bouquets throughout London and the surrounding areas with each bouquet handcrafted by our expert florists.

We're sharing everything you need to know about roses to help you find rose bouquet ideas for this Valentine's Day.

History and Symbolism of Roses

We can trace the symbolism of roses back to Ancient Egypt, where they were used as offerings to the gods. The Romans adopted roses as a status symbol, using them for everything from perfumes to bathing. While the Ancient Greeks associated roses with Aphrodite, who they believed named the flower after her son Eros, it’s the Victorians who used roses as a way to send secret messages.

Roses are also famous for being Shakespeare’s favourite flower, appearing over 70 times in his published writing, including famously in Romeo and Juliet. Rose bouquets also represent sensuality, royalty, loyalty, and perfection.

A bouquet with roses is one of the oldest symbols of love and affection. Make it part of your love story this Valentine’s Day with one of our luxury rose bouquets in London.

What Different Colours of Rose Bouquets Represent

Roses come in a rainbow of colours – and not just red! When you're shopping for fresh rose bouquets, choose a colour of roses that matches the occasion.

Red roses with a deeper tone signify a strong bond or commitment, whether it's romantic love or platonic. While red roses in a lighter hue are more relaxed, they can still symbolise desire and passion.

Pink roses may look similar to traditional red roses, but these bouquets are best suited for people you admire. A bouquet of pink roses signifies gratitude and makes a suitable gift for any occasion as one of the most popular types of rose bouquets. Pink roses also represent femininity, making them an ideal baby shower gift or the perfect choice for a new mother. Shop our 'Pink Roses Bouquet' for a unique, hand-tied bouquet of a dozen 'aqua' pink roses.

White roses are symbolically the most unique, representing new beginnings. Although a popular choice for brides, white roses are an ideal choice for a wedding bouquet as a thoughtful gift for the newlyweds. While white and ivory roses may look similar to the naked eye, ivory roses are traditionally given to show someone you're thinking of them.

Don't overlook the simple beauty of yellow roses. Just like sunflowers, yellow roses will always put a smile on your face. Yellow roses symbolise friendship, happiness, and brightness. If you want to gift a rose bouquet without romantic connotations, choose yellow roses for your flower arrangement.

Choosing Between Red and White Rose Bouquets

A rose bouquet with chocolates is one of the most popular gifts for couples – and not just for Valentine's Day. While roses come in an array of colours, red and white roses are commonly given as romantic gestures. Red roses are commonly given to mark a 15th wedding anniversary. An elegant white rose bouquet is often the go-to choice for brides as they symbolise gracefulness and new beginnings, while red roses offer a timeless sophistication and ethereal look.

Can't choose between red and white roses? Check out our hand-tied 'Cartmel Rose Bouquet' with red, cream, and bi-colour roses for a subtle pop of colour.

The number of roses you choose for your floral arrangement is also important. Nine roses symbolise eternal love, while thirteen roses represent a secret admirer. Other significant rose bouquets include fifteen roses, showing remorse, and twenty-five roses as a congratulatory gift.

How to Choose Roses in a Bouquet for Valentine's Day

Every occasion calls for roses, whether you’re saying 'I do' or want to surprise your significant other with a 'just because' gift. Rose bouquets are also popular for Valentine's Day and other romantic occasions.

Whether you're popping the question or celebrating a special anniversary, you'll be spoilt for choice with rose bouquets to suit every budget and occasion. Organise your Valentine's Day rose delivery early with Chelsea Florals. Don't forget to consider the colour of your rose bouquet. White is a fitting choice for newlyweds, while dark red roses can signify that your relationship is getting serious.

If you're going for understated elegance, choose our '12 luxury red roses' as your Valentine's Day bouquet. Classic and elegant, a dozen roses symbolise romantic love and is a way of saying 'Be Mine' to the recipient. Planning a grand romantic gesture this Valentine's Day? Our luxury bouquet with 101 roses is a showstopper, perfect for couples celebrating a special Valentine's Day.

You can make your luxury rose bouquet eco-friendly by choosing a local London florist. At Chelsea Florals, our fresh rose bouquets are exclusively sourced from sustainable farms.

Don't forget to give your rose bouquet a little extra TLC. Roses can last over a week with proper care, including recutting the roses and changing the water regularly. Check out our guide on 'How to Make Cut Flowers Last Longer' for more advice on how to get the most out of your Valentine's Day rose bouquet.

Shop for Valentine’s Day Rose Bouquets with Next-Day London Delivery

Our local flower delivery service in London makes it easy to send luxury rose bouquets to your loved one this Valentine's Day, direct to their doorstep with guaranteed chosen day delivery.

Get 10% off your first order today with the code JAN10 and get ahead of your Valentine's Day shopping. Looking for more ideas for sustainable rose bouquets? Explore our best-selling floral bouquets to find a rose that symbolises your relationship.