The History, Beauty, and Symbolism of Roses

Roses have been around for millions of generations and have been adopted as a universal symbol for love. They were even cherished in ancient civilizations and were found in tombs and paintings belonging to great rulers, showing that this beautiful flower was cherished even thousands of years ago. In today’s world, roses are considered to be the “diamonds” of flowers,  a symbol of deep affection and adoration.
Venus ET Fleur® exists in part for the beauty in roses and believes that rose arrangements should be exquisite—and made to last for much longer than a week. We create luxurious arrangements made from Real Roses That Last A Year® so your romantic gesture can make a long-lasting impression on your beloved.

The Roman Mythology of Roses

In ancient times, roses appeared frequently in mythology and were appreciated by rulers and high-ranking members of society. They were also used in celebrations and parties.

In Roman mythology, roses were a symbol of beauty and love and thus, were often consecrated to Venus, the goddess of love. There are many origin stories as to how roses, specifically red roses, came to be associated with Venus.

In one legend, Venus was said to be adored by both Adonis, the god of beauty and desire, and Mars, the god of war. Mars set out to kill Adonis, but Venus heard of his plans and rushed to warn Adonis. In her haste, she slipped on a bed of roses and scratched her foot. As she ran, wherever her foot bled onto the ground, sprung up a garden of red roses.

In another legend, Cupid, the son of Venus, was stung by a bee, which caused him to accidentally shoot his arrows into a rose garden. His arrows caused the roses to grow thorns. Later, as Venus walked through the garden, she pricked her foot on the thorns and bled over the roses, turning them red.

Because of Venus’ strong association with white and red roses, these beautiful flowers quickly became a symbol of love. They were used in wedding ceremonies, where brides and bridesmaids would wear roses in their hair as a tribute to Venus. Rose petals were also used to adorn dinner tables and served as a simple and elegant perfume for women.

The next time that you’re unsure of what to get your beloved, do as the Romans do, and gift them with a bountiful arrangement of red roses. Think something more extravagant and elegant than a mediocre bouquet that you can get at any grocery store—order a Large Square Classic arrangement of red roses, and Venus ET Fleur will deliver the arrangement straight to their door. This large, beautiful arrangement of roses will be sure to amaze the beholder—and the enchanting sentiment will last for longer than an entire year.

The Beauty of Roses

Roses transport you to another ether. Their beauty is unmatched, which is why they’re often used in poems, songs, expressions, paintings, movies, and plays. When speaking about his beloved Juliet, Romeo often referred to her as “his rose and his sun.” Just as the sun which radiates life, energy, and passion, roses are as vivacious and inspiring.

There’s no denying the immense beauty of a rose. Roses provide a beautiful multi-sensory experience, from touch and sight to taste and smell. When you touch a rose, its petals have a soft, velvety texture. In full bloom, the flower is plump and radiant. For years, many have sought after this flower to use as rose oil for perfume, toner to soften the skin, and rose water for flavor in beverages and foods.

In Ancient Egypt, it’s said that Queen Cleopatra would cover the floor in rose petals and wear roses for any public appearances because she wanted to be known as the queen who smelled like roses. As a queen who was noted for her “surpassing beauty” (as well as for her wit and charm), Cleopatra had excellent taste and high standards when it came to beautiful things. She chose roses over other flowers because, like her, they surpassed the beauty of all other flowers in numerous different ways.

To add more timeless, rose-filled glamour to your home, consider our Fleura Vase with Eternity® Roses and Eternity™ Hedera Leaves. The handcrafted exclusive white porcelain vase adds a level of sophistication to any space, and the fully bloomed roses will be sure to catch you and your guests’ attention as soon as they walk into a room. The bright hedera leaves provide a brightness and texture. Place your Fleura vase on a bookshelf or foyer table for decoration, or add it to your coffee table to serve as an elegant centerpiece for your living room.

The Symbolism of Roses

As noted above, roses are a symbol of love and romance. On Valentine’s Day, it is common for someone to send a rose arrangement to their beloved. On Mother’s Day, it is customary to send her some flowers as a gesture of love and appreciation. Roses are also frequently given for birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings as a symbol of love!

Typically, red roses are sent to someone you love romantically, as they represent deep affection and desire. White roses are used in weddings because they symbolize purity and innocence. For less romantic occasions, you can gift your friends, coworkers, or teachers an arrangement of yellow or blue roses as a token of appreciation for the joy, care, and happiness they give to you.

With the Classic Bundle Set, you receive two elegant rose arrangements—the Le Mini Square and Le Mini Round, as well as an exquisitely fragrant Rose Blanche Votive candle. The candle will remind them to take some time to take care of themselves, while the two singular rose arrangements will gracefully signal them to enjoy the finer pleasures in life—every single day Venus ET Fleur is adamant about self care, and our Classic Bundle Set is an ideal gift for those in your life who love self care—or could use a reminder to take more time for it.

Roses have a rich history and background and symbolize so much more than just, “I love you.” Personalize your own custom flower delivery from color to the style of the arrangement when you order with Venus ET Fleur. Browse our special collections for more ways to send and convey your love to your beloved.