What flowers to send for every occasion
Birthdays, anniversaries, apologies, new babies and sympathy: which flowers fit each occasion, and which to avoid.
Birthdays
Bright and personal beats formal. Tulips, gerberas, sunflowers or a mixed pastel bouquet all land well. If you know their favourite flower, that always wins. Rose hat boxes work for desk delivery on office birthdays.
Anniversaries
Red roses are traditional for a reason, and the stem count can mark the years. If roses feel expected, peonies in season or a hydrangea and rose mix carry the same weight with more surprise.
Apologies
The bouquet needs to match the offence. A small bunch for a missed dinner reads fine; a serious apology needs a serious arrangement, and white or red roses do it best. Skip anything too cheerful. A handwritten card matters more than the flower choice.
New babies
Soft pinks, creams and whites, delivered to the home rather than the hospital unless you know visiting plans. Hat boxes and orchid plants are practical: new parents do not need one more thing to find a vase for.
Sympathy
White arrangements: roses, lilies, chrysanthemums, delivered with restraint and a simple card. In the UAE, sympathy flowers are typically sent to the family home or majlis. When in doubt, keep it white, keep it simple and send it promptly.