Giving roses is a time-honored way to express love and admiration. But did you know that the number of roses given can have special meanings? 12 roses in particular have become a classic gift that conveys a specific sentiment.
The Significance of the Number 12
The number 12 holds symbolism across cultures and religions. In Christianity, there were 12 apostles. There are 12 months in the calendar year. In astrology, there are 12 zodiac signs. The number 12 is seen as representing completeness or wholeness.
When it comes to roses, 12 stems signifies a dozen – a classic, thoughtful gift. While any number of roses expresses love, a dozen roses has come to mean “be mine” or “I love you.” The fullness of 12blooms indicates one’s complete devotion or commitment to the receiver.
History of the 12 Roses Gift
Giving a dozen roses dates back centuries. In the 18th century, lovers would send bouquets decorated with ribbons and lace. Suitors would send roses to signify their deep affection for a woman.
By the 1900s, giving roses was standard in courtship. Men would purchase a dozen red roses for their sweethearts. As commercial florists emerged, they began marketing the 12 red roses as the ultimate romantic gesture.
This tradition continues today. On Valentine’s Day especially, the gift of 12 red roses remains the quintessential way to declare one’s passionate love and admiration for their beloved.
Meaning Behind the Colors
While red roses are the most popular, roses today come in a rainbow of colors, each with their own meaning:
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Love, romance, desire |
| White | Purity, innocence, reverence |
| Pink | Grace, happiness, gentleness |
| Orange | Enthusiasm, passion, adventure |
| Yellow | Friendship, joy, warmth |
| Lavender | Enchantment, majesty, splendor |
So a dozen roses can be customized to send a specific romantic message based on the color. 12 red roses proclaim “I love you.” 12 white roses convey heartfelt devotion. 12 pink roses send a gentle, graceful love.
When to Give 12 Roses
While a dozen roses are appropriate any time you want to surprise your sweetheart, there are certain occasions that are especially suited for giving 12 roses:
– Valentine’s Day – No gift conveys romance on February 14th better than a dozen red roses. They’ve become an expected gift between lovers on this holiday.
– Anniversary – Mark your 1st, 5th, 10th or any year wedding anniversary by having a beautiful bouquet of 12 roses delivered. Red is traditional, but pick her favorite color rose instead.
– Birthday – Help her celebrate with 12 gorgeous roses. She’ll be touched you marked the day with such a romantic gesture.
– First Date – Make an outstanding first impression by greeting your date with a dozen roses. This shows you’re serious about getting to know her.
– Make Up Gift – If you’ve had a fight, 12 roses says you’re sorry and want to make it up to her. Add a sincere note asking for forgiveness.
– Just Because – You don’t need a special occasion to send her a dozen roses. Surprising her just because will make her day and show how much you cherish her.
How to Select and Present 12 Roses
Follow these tips to give 12 roses in the most impressive way:
– Have them Professionally Arranged – While a simple bouquet of 12 stems pleases, having them artistically arranged by a florist elevates the gift. A professional design looks more high-end.
– Choose the Freshest Blooms – Examine roses before purchase. Look for tightly furled buds, no discoloration or wilting, and sturdy stems. Peak freshness will extend their vase life.
– Trim the Stems – Using a sharp knife or garden shears, cut each stem at a 45-degree angle 1-2 inches from the bottom. This exposes fresh water channels to hydrate the blooms.
– Use a Clean Vase – Place in a polished, spotless vase filled with lukewarm water and commercial flower food to nourish the roses.
– Giftwrap the Vase – For the best presentation, cover the vase in giftwrap paper or cellophane tied with ribbons. This adds an element of surprise when she unwraps them.
– Attach a Card – Proclaim your devotion with a loving note. For extra romance, have the message professionally calligraphied.
– Time the Delivery – Have the roses delivered when you know she’ll be home to receive them personally. This adds excitement versus having them sit unattended for any time.
Care and Handling Tips
12 roses may arrive rich with beauty but they are fragile. Follow these care instructions to help them last:
– Keep in Cool Spot – Display the roses in a cool location out of direct sunlight and heating vents which can cause premature browning of petals.
– Use Floral Preservative – Re-cut stems and place in a vase with fresh water and a packet of flower food, changing the water every 2-3 days.
– Avoid Fruits – Do not place roses near ripening fruit which emits ethylene gas that accelerates ripening and flower demise.
– Prune Old Blooms – As roses fade, carefully pinch or cut off the withering flowers. This improves the appearance and redirects energy to the remaining buds.
– Mist Petals – To revive tired blooms, gently mist roses with cool water using a spray bottle. Avoid submerging or washing the foliage which can promote rot.
– Enjoy the Fragrance – Roses release their perfume oils when warmed to room temperature. Bring some indoors to scent your living spaces.
The Gift That Never Fails to Impress
For centuries, 12 roses has been the definitive gift between lovers. The number 12 signifies completeness – a heart utterly devoted. Their rarity and delicate beauty evoke romance. When words are not enough, let a dozen roses do the talking. No matter the occasion, 12 roses says it best – I love you.
Conclusion
The tradition of gifting a dozen roses endures because it universally conveys passionate, wholehearted love and admiration. Their fullness represents one’s complete commitment. Throughout history, suitors and lovers have declared their feelings by presenting 12 red roses. Today, florists artfully design a rainbow of rose colors to allow custom messaging. While any presentation of roses expresses affection, 12 long-stemmed beauties remain the ultimate gift for your special someone.