Flowers in Russia
One need only visit a Russian school on the 1st of September to understand the sheer impact that gift-, and more importantly flower-giving has in Russia. Hundreds of schoolchildren stand around waiting for the first bell of the year, all with bouquets the size of an umbrella gripped tightly in their little hands. They＊re doing this because it is a tradition, and their elder siblings, parents and grandparents all went through the same ritual for many years before them. Gift and flower-giving in Russia has an incredibly deep meaning to it on account of the many years that this tradition has lived in the Russian spirit and mind.
And this tradition is by no means limited to the first day of school, or even major Russian holidays. As far as Russia goes - there is never a wrong occasion to give flowers. Friends, who have not seen each other in several months, or even weeks, might choose to give flowers to each other upon their next meeting. A man will often give flowers and chocolates to a lady at the start of their date, just like a husband might decide to pop into a flower shop on his way back from work every now and then to surprise his wife with a floral arrangement.
Russia is well prepared for such spontaneous bouts of affection. Flower shops and stalls by the hundreds litter the streets, offering a wide range of bouquets and arrangements for every taste and occasion.
It might be difficult for a stranger to the Russian culture to understand why flowers and bouquet-giving is such an important aspect, and why it is so deeply engraved into the Russian mentality, however, one must understand that together with being a tradition, the act of giving flowers is highly symbolic.
Take for instance wedding rings 每 though not physically binding, they are a symbol of a relationship between two people. A symbol so powerful, that it gives the couple immunity to other romantic relationships. The same type of mindset applies to the act of giving flowers in Russia - a bouquet, and the way it is composed, is capable of speaking volumes.
For example, should you ever choose to send a bouquet composed of only one type of flower (most commonly a composition of roses), you must take special care to send only an odd number. Any odd number (be it 1 or 1001) represents a happy occasion, while even numbers should be reserved for funerals and sympathy arrangements. This way, it is actually better to send a woman in Russia 13 roses, than it is to send 12!
Another important aspect is the color 每 red is considered the most classic ＆safe＊ choice, as it is suitable for any occasion, however, it is also considered a very passionate color. If you are uncertain of a lady＊s feelings towards you, or are currently in a strained phase of your relationship, it might be better to send pink or yellow flowers instead.
As far as bouquets of mixed flowers go 每 there are no strict rules to their arrangement. The variation of their composition is limited only by the florist＊s imagination. Though the act of giving flowers is a big one in Russia, most recipients will be content with the giver＊s kind gesture, and will not read too deeply into what a mixed bouquet contains. Remember: the most important thing about any bouquet is the good intention behind it!
In recent years, there has also been a sudden rise in the popularity of gifts and gift baskets. Some time ago, it was custom to give a lady a teddy bear, or a bottle of champagne/wine, together with her flowers. Now, this practice has grown to include gift and produce baskets. It is highly acceptable to give such baskets of goodies to both friends and family, and as business gifts to partner companies. These baskets are capable of containing the most diverse set of gifts, most combinations created from items that compliment each other. A fruit basket is always good to send, however, one might also be interested in sending something a little more extravagant 每baskets of tinned olives, fish and crackers are easily available, as are cheese baskets. Both are ideal when topped off with a bottle of wine! We should also mention the importance of ＆tea-time＊ baskets, which often include imported tea leaves, ground coffee, jam and biscuits 每 tea is seen as one of the more important drinks in Russia, and you would be certain that your basket will be well enjoyed in the evening!
When it comes to occasions, the first thing a foreigner to the country must keep in mind is that Christmas is not as widely celebrated in Russia as it is in other countries. New Year＊s, on the other hand, is seen as one of the more important days of the year, and is one when Russians are most likely to give each other gifts and bouquets. This would be the best time to send toys to children, and food baskets to adults, who may enjoy them on the eve of the new year.
During birthdays, it is best to send a combination of both gifts AND flowers. A lady would enjoy receiving a large arrangement, together with a gift 每 be it jewelry, perfume, or a spa set; while a man would enjoy a composition together with champagne, cologne, or a food basket.
The most important day in gift- and flower-giving in Russia is undoubtedly the 8th of March. This holiday is most fervently celebrated, and its denizens spare no expenses when it comes to the gifts and flowers 每 it is National Women＊s Day! During this day, even people who do not ordinarily purchase flowers and gifts will buy an arrangement for every female they know. Men will give their loved ones gifts, but will also remember to give her female relatives (mother, sisters, aunts) a bouquet too.
It can be said that this tradition of giving has been isolated to grow in Russian customs for some time because of a lack of connectivity with the rest of the world, though in the past 15 years, this isolation has given way to a boom in communication and co-operation. This is why flower deliver sites that focus directly on Russia and its customs, come in handy. With a western quality of service and support, they are able to carry out deliveries of bouquets, baskets and business gifts directly to Russians, whilst abiding to their traditions and customs.