Flowers. The most classic, romantic gift for a man to give to the guy or gal of his dreams. Upfront–I don’t think it’s ever a mistake to give someone flowers, any kind of flowers. It’s so sweet, so incredibly vulnerable an act. So if you’re comfortable with it, go ahead and gift whatever flower you like. I’m all for it. But if you stand in front of the cooler at the florist and think, uhhhh, which one? How do I know what she or he will like? If it gives you anxiety, or if you’re a stickler for propriety, I’m here to help you.
Giving a bouquet of flowers on your first date is super cute. I imagine it doesn’t happen much anymore because people typically meet at a restaurant or bar or concert or event, instead of the guy picking up his date. But if you find yourself in the position to give first date flowers (i.e., when she or he has the opportunity to get them into a vase of water right away), I recommend something like daisies. You can get a vase of yellow and white ones, or the more colorful Gerber daisies. Daisies are sweet, casual, and friendly. Perfect for the first (or second or third) date.
A thrifted vase…
When you have an exclusive sweetie and it’s going well, I love a bouquet of mixed flowers as a gift–a couple roses, a lily, carnations, a peony, some greenery. It ups the ante from the daisies.
Roses, roses, roses. I love white or red for the first declaration of love. Red is traditional, of course, but white is equally lovely. Baby’s breath often accompanies roses–those are the teeny tiny white buds that dot the bouquet.
…plus some flowers for under $5…
Again, roses are so beautiful, so classic. But think about other colors besides red and white. Peach, yellow, lavender and pink. If you like giving roses as a gift and your other half likes receiving them, make the surprise the color.
No need to go to a florist if you’re on a budget (or even if you’re not). Grocery stores often have a good selection for less cost (Trader Joe’s, especially, often has bright, colorful bouquets for as little as $3.99). In the summer, many farmer’s markets have at least one seller offering bouquets starting around $5. Flowers like alstroemeria, which are often sold at supermarkets, are used as filler flowers–hence the cheaper price–but look lovely on their own. If you wish to gift your bouquet in a glass vase, go to a thrift store. There are rows and rows of vases to choose from, and you won’t spend more than a couple bucks.
…equals a thoughtful, beautiful gift.
For the best friend, sister, mother, aunt, or grandma, there are a great many options to show your affection. In spring, tulips are lovely and sweet. I also love daffodils or sunflowers for the friendly bouquet.
There are few people who would reject a bouquet of flowers from their love, but the following flowers may be risky propositions. Carnations are typically viewed as “filler” flowers, i.e., the flowers that fill in the space between the more beautiful flowers. You may want to avoid them unless you know your love specifically appreciates them. Chrysanthemums (or mums) are flowers that some people may associate with death. You often give a pot or bouquet of them at funerals. Lilies—many people love lilies, but just as many detest them. They have a very specific smell (often compared to the diaper cream Desitin), and they also stain fabric if their stamen isn’t cut. Finally, steer clear of dyed flowers. If you’re not a frequent flower buyer, it may be hard to tell the difference, but dyed flowers (often carnations or daisies) have uneven coloring in their petals, and usually just look a little…off. Alright, actually, they look tacky as hell. Forgive me.
Joe Fox, F-O-X, is one sly D-O-G.
Sometimes it’s nice to give potted plants as a gift. African violets, cacti, poinsettia (at Christmas) or orchids are all great as gifts. Potted plants are good if you know the recipient has a green thumb. A bouquet of hydrangeas are really lovely and a bit unusual. Guys, though I’ve given you some basic guidelines here, don’t feel like these rules are set in stone. A gift of flowers is always appreciated!
About the Author: If you’ve got a question that needs the female treatment, chances are you’re not the only one who wants to ask it. Beth is our source for the answers. From opinions on men’s style to decoding the sometimes mysterious ways of women, she’ll take on a different question every Thursday. She also might provide an answer without waiting to be asked. That happens from time to time too. Click here to get to know Beth, then get in touch with her by sending your question to: askawoman@dappered.com .
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