Celebrating International Women's Day with Flowers: Meaningful Gift Ideas

Published on March 21, 2024

March 8th is on the horizon, and it's not just any day — it's International Women's Day (IWD)!

This special day is all about cheering on the incredible achievements of women across the globe in social, economic, cultural, and political arenas.

Flowers have blossomed into a beautiful symbol of respect, admiration, and appreciation on this day, mirroring the diverse and vibrant essence of womanhood.

So, in this post, we're exploring how flowers became intertwined with IWD and unveiling the perfect blooms to express your admiration and gratitude. Whether you're looking to brighten the day of the amazing women in your life or want to make a statement with a thoughtful gesture, we've got you covered.

Looking for a special way to celebrate the women in your life? Our florists are ready to turn your admiration into a perfect floral arrangement. Order fresh flowers online anytime or visit a Forest of Flowers near you to let your emotions bloom!

The Roots of Revolution: The Historical Significance of International Women's Day

International Women's Day (IWD) sprouted from the fertile ground of labour movements of the early 20th century in North America and Europe.

Theresa Malkiel, an activist for the rights of working women, is credited with organizing the first National Women’s Day in New York City in 1909. The first international counterpart was first commemorated two years later, marked by demonstrations of over a million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Women flooded the streets, demanding the right to vote, to hold public office, and to be treated equally in the workplace. It was the beginning of a global movement that would eventually see IWD celebrated in over 100 countries.

Today, in many corners of the globe, IWD has grown into a sociocultural event that celebrates womanhood in all its forms. It's a day to pause, reflect, and appreciate the incredible contributions of women to society, while also recognizing the journey ahead toward gender equality. At the same time, many people continue to commemorate IWD true to its roots as a day of protests and calls for a radical shift.

From its inception as a cry for change in women’s and labour rights to its current status as a broader celebration, IWD reminds us of the ongoing struggle for women's rights and the incredible progress made so far. It's a testament to the power of unity and the enduring spirit of women worldwide.

Commemorating IWD with Flowers

The link between flowers and International Women’s Day is as nearly layered as the history of the day itself. The tradition of gifting flowers on IWD has its roots in the political soil of the early 20th century but has since bloomed into a global gesture of appreciation, respect, and admiration for women everywhere.

In the early days, especially in Russia and the former Soviet states, giving flowers on IWD became a popular way to honour women following significant political movements and victories, such as winning the right to vote. It was a symbol of respect and admiration, acknowledging women's contributions to both the public and private spheres.

Fast forward to today, and the tradition has beautifully evolved. In some countries, IWD is akin to Mother's Day, where flowers are given not just to mothers and grandmothers but also to daughters, friends, and colleagues, celebrating the equality and empowerment of all women.

Some critics argue that giving flowers might overshadow the day's original intent — to highlight the struggles and achievements of women and to advocate for gender equality. But the truth is that the act of giving flowers on IWD has roots that run back to the day's very political beginnings. It's not just about the flowers themselves, but about the meaning behind the gesture. It's a way of saying, "I see you, I appreciate you, and I respect everything you do."

Flowers are fitting symbols for a day dedicated to celebrating progress in women's rights and calling for further growth. They remind us of the beauty in resilience and the power of acknowledging the diverse roles and contributions of women in our lives.

So, while we embrace the tradition of gifting flowers, let's remember the deep and meaningful intentions behind it. This gesture complements the day's original purpose by celebrating the multifaceted nature of womanhood and supporting the ongoing fight for equality.

Giving flowers on International Women’s Day isn’t just a gift — it’s a message of solidarity, respect, and a commitment to continue advocating for the rights and recognition of women everywhere.

The Best Flowers to Give on International Women's Day

When International Women's Day rolls around, choosing the perfect flower to express your admiration and support for the incredible women in your life is a beautiful way to celebrate. Each bloom carries its own unique symbolism, making your gift all the more meaningful. Let's explore some of the best flowers to give on this empowering day!

Orchids

Orchids are a testament to the strength in subtlety and the resilience that lies within. They stand as a symbol of the remarkable ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, embodying the quiet yet profound resilience of women. Their intricate patterns and vibrant colours serve as a reminder that strength doesn't have to be loud to be impactful. Gift an orchid to celebrate the graceful endurance and diverse beauty of womanhood.

Lilies

Lilies are a fragrant homage to femininity, motherhood, beauty, and passion. With their diverse and captivating appearance, lilies encapsulate the many facets of womanhood, making them a splendid choice for IWD. Whether it's honouring a mother, a friend, or a colleague, lilies are sure to convey your appreciation for their complexity and inherent grace.

Carnations

Steeped in history and cultural significance, carnations are a symbol of motherly love, strength, and enduring beauty. These blooms have been cherished for their long-lasting nature and sweet fragrance, representing the unwavering love and support that women provide. The variety of colours available allows for a personalized touch, with each hue conveying a different message of admiration and respect.

Snapdragons

Snapdragons are as unique as they are striking, symbolizing both strength and grace. Their distinctive shape, reminiscent of a dragon's mouth, suggests a certain fierceness and tenacity. Snapdragons are a vivid reminder that strength comes in many forms, celebrating individuality and the grace with which women navigate the world.

Mimosas (Acacia dealbata)

The mimosa flower holds a special place in the heart of IWD, especially in Italy, where it symbolizes solidarity and resilience. Blooming in early March, mimosas are given not as a romantic gesture but as a sign of respect and support for women's achievements and struggles. This tradition underscores the collective journey towards gender equality, making mimosas a deeply meaningful gift on March 8th.

Roses

The red rose, in particular, has a rich history in labour movements, symbolizing solidarity and strength among workers. Its association with the fight for fair working conditions and equality makes it a powerful symbol of the ongoing struggle for women's rights. Gifting roses on IWD is a nod to the day's origins and a tribute to the relentless spirit of those who continue to advocate for change.

Embrace the Tradition of Flowers on International Women's Day

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It's a day to push for gender equality, to stand up against discrimination, and to honor the relentless spirit of women who've paved the way for future generations.

Commemorating IWD with flowers goes beyond the simple act of giving. It's a powerful symbol of respect, appreciation, and solidarity. Each bloom, from the resilient orchid to the vibrant mimosa, tells a story of strength, beauty, and growth, mirroring the journey of women around the world.

By choosing to celebrate this day with flowers, we're acknowledging the incredible contributions and the indomitable spirit of women everywhere.

Whether it's a bouquet of roses with a message of solidarity or a single orchid that speaks volumes about resilience, each flower is a testament to the remarkable impact women have on our lives. Let's make our floral gifts a meaningful gesture of our admiration and gratitude for the women in our lives—mothers, partners, friends, mentors, and colleagues.

Ready to ring in the Spring? Our florists are ready to turn your excitement into a seasonal floral arrangement. Order fresh flowers online anytime or visit a Forest of Flowers near you to let your emotions bloom!