Man's Guide to Buying Valentine's Day Flowers

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's time to treat the one you love to a delightful display of fresh flowers.

Whether you are married, dating or single in San Diego, getting a girl flowers is no new trick - but finding the right flower - we're talking type, color and quantity - can be tricky.

When Buying Roses

Single vs. Bouquet
A full bouquet should be given at the initiation of the date because they can be large and awkward to carry throughout the evening. A single rose is more appropriate if you are bringing the flowers to dinner. When giving a single rose, be sure to de-thorn. For a bouquet of roses, make sure to include a small amount of babies breath and leaves for spacing and elegance effects.

Full Bloom vs. Rose Bud
Full bloom roses are fully matured and open, as opposed to rose buds, which are closed and narrow at the top. A full bloom translates to a meaning of appreciation and admiration, while the rose bud signifies romance, seduction and infatuation.

Colors and Hue Interpretations
Red: Mature, passionate
Pink: Innocent, exciting
White: Simplistic, pure
Color change: Unique, memorable

If you can't decide on just one color of rose, try picking a few different shades and combining them together in one bouquet; just make sure they are all the same size.

Other Appropriate Valentine's Day Flowers
Tulips: Classy, simple
Dahlia: Urban, artistic
Orchids: Refined, complex

Tips and Valentine's Day Basics
1. Handwritten notes are best - no tacky hallmark cards; a short and sweet, heartfelt sentiment is all you need.

2. Don't add decorations or non-natural accessories to a floral bouquet.

3. Don't plastic wrap your bouquet - a rubber band and a ribbon is enough. Plastic wrap is cheap, and loud.

4. Carnations, Daisies, Sunflowers, or Birds of Paradise are not acceptable flowers for Valentine's Day.

Recommended Local Flower Shops
Storm International Florist - www.stormflorist.com
Point Loma Village Florist - www.pointlomaflorist.com
Adelade's La Jolla - www.adelaidesflowers.com
Flower Girls - www.flowergirls.biz
Fifth Avenue Flowers - www.5thavenueflorist.com