Mother’s Day is a cherished celebration where we honour the incredible women who raised us, nurtured us, and shaped us into who we are today. But while brunches, flowers, and heartfelt cards have become traditions, not everyone knows the fascinating history behind this special day. Let’s explore the origins of Mother’s Day — and afterwards, we’ll look at some of the best types of flowers to gift your mom and their beautiful meanings.
The Origins of Mother’s Day
The roots of Mother’s Day stretch back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans held festivals celebrating mother goddesses such as Rhea and Cybele. These early ceremonies often included offerings, feasts, and tributes.
In early Christian tradition, “Mothering Sunday” emerged in the United Kingdom during the 16th century. Held on the fourth Sunday of Lent, it was a day when people returned to their “mother church” for a special service. Over time, the religious aspect blended with more personal celebrations of motherhood.
However, the modern version of Mother’s Day — as we know it today — began in the United States in the early 20th century, thanks to the efforts of a woman named Anna Jarvis. After her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, passed away in 1905, Anna sought to create a day to honour the sacrifices mothers make for their children. In 1908, she organized the first official Mother’s Day celebration at a church in Grafton, West Virginia.
Anna Jarvis campaigned tirelessly to have Mother’s Day recognized as a national holiday. In 1914, her efforts paid off when President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. Ironically, Anna later became disillusioned with the commercialization of the holiday she founded, feeling it detracted from its original, heartfelt purpose.
Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated worldwide, although customs and dates can vary by country. In Canada, we celebrate it on the second Sunday in May — a time to show love, gratitude, and appreciation for the amazing mothers in our lives.
The Best Flowers to Gift Mom
Flowers and Mother’s Day go hand in hand. A beautiful bouquet not only brightens her day but also carries symbolic meanings that make the gift even more special. Here are some of the best types of flowers to consider for your mom, along with what they represent:
1. Carnations
Carnations are the traditional flower of Mother’s Day, thanks in large part to Anna Jarvis, who often sent white carnations to churches in honour of mothers. White carnations symbolize pure love and remembrance, while pink carnations represent a mother’s undying love. A bouquet of pink or mixed carnations is a timeless and meaningful choice.
2. Roses
Roses aren’t just for Valentine’s Day — they are also a beautiful way to express love and admiration for your mother. Light pink roses convey gratitude and joy, deep pink roses symbolize appreciation, and yellow roses bring cheerfulness and warmth. A mixed bouquet can capture all the facets of your relationship.
3. Tulips
Tulips are a springtime favourite and perfect for Mother’s Day. They come in a variety of vibrant colours, each with its own meaning: pink tulips symbolize affection and caring, red represents true love, and yellow conveys cheerful thoughts. Tulips are simple yet elegant, perfect for a mom who loves classic beauty.
4. Lilies
Lilies are bold, fragrant flowers that symbolize motherhood and refined beauty. White lilies, in particular, are often associated with purity and devotion. Stargazer lilies, with their stunning pink and white blooms, symbolize prosperity and abundance — wonderful wishes for any mom.
5. Orchids
If you’re looking for something a bit more exotic, orchids are an elegant choice. They symbolize beauty, strength, and love — all qualities associated with motherhood. Plus, orchids are long-lasting, making them a gift that keeps on giving well beyond Mother’s Day.
6. Peonies
Peonies are lush, romantic flowers that symbolize honour, prosperity, and compassion. Their full, delicate blooms make a striking statement in any bouquet. They are often associated with positive energy and good fortune — sentiments any mother would appreciate.
7. Sunflowers
If you want to brighten your mom’s day in the most literal way, sunflowers are a cheerful and vibrant option. They symbolize warmth, loyalty, and admiration, and their sunny faces can instantly lift a room’s mood.
8. Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera daisies are bright, joyful flowers that symbolize innocence, purity, and cheerfulness. They come in a rainbow of colours and are perfect for a mom with a lively, youthful spirit.
Mother’s Day is more than a date on the calendar — it’s an opportunity to pause and reflect on the love, strength, and sacrifice that mothers show every day. Understanding the rich history behind the day adds even more meaning to your celebrations, and choosing the perfect flowers can help you express your feelings beautifully.
Whether you select traditional carnations, elegant lilies, or vibrant sunflowers, a thoughtfully chosen bouquet will always let your mom know just how much she means to you.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible moms out there!