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The Ultimate Guide to Flower Occasions

October 5, 2025 | Flowers for occasions

birthday flowers sympathy flowers new baby flowers thank you flowers Graduation Flowers

If you ask us, there’s no moment that flowers can’t make better. From joyful hellos to heartfelt goodbyes. But when it comes to choosing the right blooms for the right occasion, things can get a little tricky.

Should you send roses for a new baby? Are natives too casual for an anniversary? And what’s the deal with white flowers?

Let’s decode it all, here’s your ultimate guide to flower etiquette in Australia, straight from the floral experts at Pearsons Florist.

What Are the Best Flowers for Birthdays?

Birthdays are all about joy, colour and energy, so pick blooms that match their personality.

Bright & Bold
Think gerberas, snapdragons or mixed seasonal bouquets like our Summer Bright Bouquet ($150). These say “You’re the life of the party!”

Pretty & Feminine
Go for pink roses, tulips or peonies (when in season). The Pink Crush Bouquet ($140) is a favourite for friends and sisters.

Classic & Timeless
White lilies or elegant orchids like the Special Milestone Orchid Hamper ($245) suit milestone birthdays and sophisticated tastes.

Pearsons Florist tip: Add a bottle of bubbles or a candle from our Gift Hampers collection for a complete birthday surprise.

Which Flowers Say “I Love You”?

Ah, the language of love. Whether it’s your first anniversary or your fiftieth, romantic flowers never go out of style.

Roses are the universal symbol of love (especially red).
Orchids represent beauty and admiration, perfect for long-term relationships.
Pastel pinks and soft tones like our Luxe Pastel Bouquet ($195) say “I adore you” in a modern, understated way.

If you’re going all out, the Classic Pink Vase ($285) is a showstopper, the kind of gift that earns a happy tear (or two).

What Flowers Should You Send for a New Baby?

When there’s a new arrival, flowers are a joyful way to say “welcome to the world!” but a little practicality goes a long way.

Soft and gentle blooms like white roses, pastel hydrangeas, or chrysanthemums are ideal for new parents.

Low-fragrance flowers are best for hospital rooms (avoid overly scented lilies).

The Pretty Little Gift Hamper ($110) combines fresh flowers with sweet treats, perfect for new mums.

What Flowers Are Appropriate for Sympathy or Condolence?

When words don’t feel like enough, flowers can speak gently on your behalf. In Australia, understated arrangements are the way to go, they convey care without feeling intrusive.

White and green bouquets like the Luxe White Bouquet ($195) are traditional and calming.

Native flowers (like banksias and proteas) symbolise resilience and remembrance.

Orchids are long-lasting and elegant, representing eternal love and peace.

Pearsons Florist tip: Send flowers directly to the family home, or include a personal note with a short, heartfelt message.

What Are the Best Flowers for Graduations and Achievements?

Graduation day deserves a bouquet as bright as their future.

Go for colour and confidence, the Summer Bright Bouquet ($150) or Vivid Vase ($140) both photograph beautifully for graduation pics. Add a Champagne Gift Hamper for post ceremony celebrations.

Pearsons Florist tip: For outdoor ceremonies, choose hardy flowers that can handle the heat, natives or sunflowers are perfect.

What Flowers Make the Best Thank You Gifts?

A little gratitude goes a long way, especially when it comes in the form of a gorgeous arrangement.

Cheerful pastels like the Pastel Charm Vase ($120) are a versatile favourite for colleagues, teachers and neighbours.

For a gift that goes beyond flowers, try a Celebrate & Appreciate Hamper ($235) flowers, chocolates and candles all in one.

Pearsons Florist tip: Always include a personalised note. It turns a nice gift into a memorable one.

What Flowers Are Ideal for Housewarmings?

New home, new beginnings! Flowers bring warmth and life to any fresh space.

Potted orchids or green plants like the White Lotus Orchid Hamper ($195) add lasting elegance.

Bright mixed bouquets feel festive and instantly make a new space feel like home.

Pearsons Florist tip: If you’re attending the housewarming, have the flowers delivered the day before so the hosts can display them easily.

Australian Flower Etiquette: The Quick Guide

When in Doubt, Ask a Florist

Choosing the right flowers doesn’t have to be complicated, just thoughtful. At Pearsons Florist, our Sydney team know the subtle art of matching blooms to moments. Whether you’re saying thank you, congratulations or “I love you to bits”, we’ve got the perfect flowers for it.

Explore the full range here: Pearsons Florist Sydney Flower Collections

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