Are Red and White Flowers Bad Luck? Myths, Facts & and; Gifting Etiquette
Red and white flowers often spark curiosity. Are they symbols of love, unity, or bad luck? Across cultures, these blooms carry powerful meanings — sometimes romantic, sometimes somber. If you’re choosing flowers for weddings, funerals, or gifts, understanding their symbolism helps you send the right message.
Meaning of Red and White Flowers Together
Red and white flowers have layered meanings. When paired, they often symbolize:
- Unity and harmony — red for passion and white for purity
- New beginnings — a blend of intense love and fresh starts
- Cultural contrasts — in some traditions, red and white together hint at mourning or farewell
- In Western cultures, this combination is romantic, while in some Eastern beliefs, it’s tied to remembrance and memorials.
Are Red and White Flowers Bad Luck?
The myth about red and white flowers bringing bad luck comes from funeral customs. In Victorian England and parts of Asia, red and white bouquets were linked to death rites. Over time, this belief faded, and modern gifting trends turned their meaning into a symbol of balance and eternal love.
Today, context defines their meaning:
- Funerals — red and white flowers show respect and remembrance
- Weddings — they represent passion and lifelong devotion
- Gifting — they express deep admiration and sincerity
Red and White Flowers Funeral Meaning
At funerals, red and white flowers are common because they represent:
- Respect for the departed
- Eternal remembrance and love
- Balance between grief (white) and love (red)
They are often chosen for sympathy arrangements, wreaths, and memorial services because they communicate heartfelt emotions without words.
Red and White Roses Wedding Symbolism
Red roses symbolize passion. White roses symbolize purity. Together, they create the perfect balance for weddings:
Red roses — deep love and desire
White roses — innocence and fresh beginnings
Combined — a statement of eternal devotion
Many couples choose this mix for bridal bouquets or ceremony arrangements to show the merging of lives and hearts.
Red and White Flowers for Manhattan Weddings: Myth or Modern Trend?
In Manhattan’s wedding scene, bold color choices are celebrated. Red and white wedding bouquets are becoming a favorite for high-end ceremonies because they reflect luxury and timeless love.
Couples use them to stand out from traditional pastels
Local florists design dramatic arrangements blending modern style with cultural symbolism
Rooftop and ballroom weddings in NYC showcase this mix for unforgettable photos
Explore red and white wedding bouquets for Manhattan celebrations and bring this timeless yet daring trend to your special day.
Gifting Etiquette: When to Give Red and White Flowers
Choosing the right moment for red and white flowers depends on the occasion:
Weddings — a romantic and elegant gift, especially with roses
Funerals — thoughtful and respectful for sympathy arrangements
Anniversaries — shows balanced passion and devotion
Cultural events — check traditions; some may view them as mourning flowers
When in doubt, add a heartfelt note to explain your intention.
FAQ
Are red flowers for wedding bouquets considered lucky?
Yes. In most modern cultures, red flowers symbolize love and prosperity, making them a lucky and bold choice for weddings.
Do red and white flowers always mean bad luck?
No. While tied to mourning in some traditions, today they often symbolize unity and love, especially in weddings.
Can I send red and white flowers for sympathy?
Yes. They convey both heartfelt sorrow and enduring respect.
Final Thoughts
Red and white flowers are more than myths or superstitions. They’re timeless symbols of love, respect, and remembrance. For Manhattan weddings, they are a bold, modern choice. For funerals, they create a graceful tribute.