Birthday
HydrangeasFlowers on a first date are a lovely gesture that shows your attentiveness straight away. But it is easy to overdo it: a huge bouquet can be embarrassing, and she would have to carry it around all evening. Here is how to find the happy medium.
To give or not to give?
Yes, if you are meeting in person and will have at least a little time to talk. A small bouquet is a pleasant surprise for almost any woman. The exceptions are when you are heading straight to the cinema, a concert or an active walk: then flowers will get in the way. In that case, give them at the end of the evening or have them delivered the next day.
Which flowers to choose
- Soft-coloured roses — white, cream or pale pink. To find out why it is better not to start with bright red, read the article on what rose colours mean.
- Garden roses or peonies — romantic without being clichéd.
- Eustoma — looks like a rose but lighter and more delicate; lasts well in a vase.
- Tulips — in spring, the freshest and lightest choice.
- A small mixed bouquet in pastel shades with gypsophila.
Illustration 1. A small pastel bouquet is the ideal format for a first meeting.
Illustration 5. Eustoma looks delicate and lasts a long time in a vase.
Size matters
Ideally, choose a compact bouquet that is easy to hold or put on a café table. 1–7 flowers or a small mixed bouquet is just right. We wrote about what the number of flowers means in a separate article.
Illustration 3. One beautiful rose or a few tulips are also a great option.
A convenient alternative is a mini box of flowers: it doesn’t need water and fits easily in a bag or on a table. Read more about formats in the article bouquet, box or basket.
Illustration 4. A mini box needs no vase and is easy to carry.
How to give them
- Don’t hide the bouquet behind your back; simply hand it over with a smile when you meet.
- Say a few simple words: “These are for you, I thought you’d like them.”
- In a café, ask the waiter for a vase or put the bouquet beside you.
- Don’t make the flowers the main topic of the evening; they are just a nice touch.
Illustration 2. A bouquet on a café table sets the mood without getting in the way of conversation.
What to avoid
- Huge bouquets of 51 or 101 roses: they belong to a different stage of a relationship.
- Strongly scented flowers such as lilies: she may not like the smell.
- Potted flowers: they are awkward to carry.
- Bouquets bought in a hurry in an underpass: it is better to order fresh flowers in advance. How to tell a fresh bouquet — we explain here.
In short. A small, delicate bouquet given simply and sincerely is the best start. It shows your attention without putting her in an awkward position.
