The NYC Florist's Guide to Choosing Flowers for Every Occasion

Red roses, white hydrangeas, and green chrysanthemums in a glass vase
Flower Guide6 min read

The NYC Florist's Guide to Choosing Flowers for Every Occasion

Flowers have carried meaning for centuries — but with so many varieties and occasions, it can be hard to know where to start. Our florists at Citywide Flower Plants have put together this guide to help you choose the right arrangement for every moment.

Birthdays: Go bold and colorful. Birthdays call for celebration, so lean into vibrant hues. Sunflowers, gerbera daisies, mixed tropical arrangements, and bright roses all make excellent birthday flowers. If you know the recipient's favorite color, we can build an arrangement around it.

Anniversaries: Romance is the priority. Red roses are the classic choice for a reason — they're universally understood as a symbol of love. For something more unique, consider a lush arrangement of garden roses, peonies, or a mix of red and blush tones. Our Manhattan Elegance and Red Rose Bouquet arrangements are perennial favorites.

Get well: Bright and uplifting. When someone is recovering, you want flowers that bring energy and optimism. Yellow and orange tones — sunflowers, daffodils, marigolds — are ideal. Avoid heavily fragrant flowers like lilies if the recipient is in a hospital, as strong scents can be overwhelming.

New baby: Soft and gentle. Pastel arrangements in pink, lavender, white, and soft yellow are the traditional choice for welcoming a new baby. Tulips, ranunculus, and spray roses work beautifully. Plants like peace lilies or succulents are also a thoughtful long-lasting alternative.

Sympathy: White and understated. White flowers — lilies, chrysanthemums, white roses — convey peace and respect. Avoid overly festive colors. A simple, elegant arrangement or a planted sympathy basket sends a message of comfort without overwhelming the moment.

Weddings and events: Consult with us. Wedding florals are a world of their own. We work with couples and event planners throughout Manhattan to create custom centerpieces, bouquets, and installations. Call us at (212) 828-3088 to discuss your vision.

Corporate: Clean and professional. For office deliveries and corporate gifting, stick to arrangements that are elegant but not overpowering. White and green palettes, orchid plants, and structured bouquets all work well in professional settings.

CF

Citywide Flower Plants

1423 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128

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