The history of flowers
Flowers have a rich and symbolic history, stretching back to ancient civilisations. For thousands of years, they’ve inspired religions, shaped cultures, influenced art, and played a central role in social rituals long before today’s world of flowers delivery Australia and floral trends.
In the Victorian era, flowers became a language with each bloom carrying its own meaning in what was known as floriography. They were often used in courtship, where emotions and feelings were expressed through flowers. For example, a bluebell symbolised kindness, while a pomegranate conveyed conceit. These old traditions have also resurfaced in conversations about ethical flowers and what our choices say about our values.
Why people love flowers
Flowers are beautiful, connect us to nature, and can have a powerful psychological effect on our mood. They offer a glimpse into the cycle of life, which is why they remain one of the most enduring categories of meaningful gifts. This helps explain why the floral industry is so significant and continues to grow, with trends coming in and out of fashion, and florists honing their craft into an art form.
While the emotional impact of flowers remains, data suggests that their traditional meanings are largely unknown to most people today. Instead, individuals tend to assign their own personal or emotional significance to flowers. In other words, flowers have become more of a vibe than a message.
The evolving story of flowers
This year in Australia, the floral industry is estimated to generate AUD $1.2 billion in revenue. Globally, the industry was valued at approximately AUD $88.88 billion in 2023, which highlights its significant scale and economic impact. It is predicted to grow into a $100 billion dollar industry by 2032.
The largest exporters of flowers are the Netherlands, Ecuador, Colombia, Kenya, and Ethiopia. Developing countries count for approximately 70% of flowers supplied worldwide. Within these countries a small portion of flower farms are Fair trade certified and promote ethical working conditions and environmentally sustainable practices.
Data suggests that ethical flowers are not common place and both workers and the environment face exploitation. While there is a lack of evidence on the exact portion of Fair trade certified flowers that are imported to Australia, it is estimated to be lower than the UK, where Fair trade accounted for an estimated 2% of the annual market. Therefore, while they certainly bring colour and beauty, the question remains: at what cost? These considerations increasingly influence customers who prefer socially conscious gifts over tradition alone.
Parallels between our angels and flowers
Much like flowers, our angels offer beauty, a sense of community, and provide emotional expression. These qualities are why many people now seek out socially conscious gifts over items that wilt or expire.
Both are delicate, handcrafted expressions that can soften moments of grief, elevate moments of joy, and say what words sometimes can't. Yet while flowers fade, our angels endure. It’s a lasting message infused with purpose. They’re more than a gesture; they’re a pure message of love, hope, and care.
What we hope
We hope our angels help restore meaning to the act of giving, and that on those big, commercialised occasions, you’ll choose a heartfelt and socially conscious gift.
There is always a time and a place for flowers, especially when those businesses are are a socially conscious florist or doing their part to help others. Here are our top 5 recommended florists in Melbourne and Sydney.
1. PASH – Melbourne
PASH has been a wonderful supporter of our business and never misses a floral detail.
2. The Doctors' Flowers – Melbourne
A sensory-friendly florist filled with hidden treasures, run by two compassionate doctors.
3. The Beautiful Bunch – Melbourne
A socially conscious florist that employs refugees and uses ethical flowers.
4. Little Flowers – Sydney
95% Australian grown, minimising flower waste and making green deliveries.
5. Florapeutic– Sydney
A Florist that repurposes flowers, so that they don’t go to waste.