Choosing Flowers by Who You're Sending Them To
The right flower for October 20 depends less on personal taste and more on who's receiving it. A bouquet perfect for a wife can feel awkward sent to a boss, and flowers ideal for a mother may read as too formal for a close friend. This guide organizes flower choice by recipient rather than by flower type.
VIETNAMESE WOMEN'S DAY
For Mothers
Pink roses, lilies, or carnations in soft tones work well for mothers, striking a balance between celebratory and respectful. Avoid overly romantic red arrangements, which can feel mismatched for this relationship.
For Wives and Girlfriends
Red or a larger quantity of roses is expected and appropriate here, along with more elaborate arrangements than would suit other recipients -- this is the one relationship where a bold, romantic gesture fits naturally.
For Grandmothers
Chrysanthemums or lotus, tied to respect and longevity in Vietnamese tradition, are often favored over roses for grandmothers, reflecting a more traditional sensibility.
Lilies
For Female Colleagues
Yellow roses or a modest mixed bouquet in office-appropriate tones keep the gesture professional and avoid any romantic ambiguity in a workplace setting.
For a Female Boss
A more formal, higher-quality arrangement -- often orchids -- signals respect appropriate to the professional hierarchy, distinct from the more casual gift given to a peer colleague.
For Teachers
Sunflowers or a bright mixed bouquet reflect gratitude and warmth, commonly chosen by both current students and adults reconnecting with former teachers.
For Close Friends
Peach or orange-toned roses split the difference between formal and romantic, a popular choice for close friendships that don't fit neatly into either category.
Orchids
A Quick Reference by Recipient
| Recipient | Best Flower Choice |
|---|---|
| Mother | Pink roses, lilies, carnations |
| Wife/Girlfriend | Red roses, larger quantities |
| Grandmother | Chrysanthemum, lotus |
| Colleague | Yellow roses, modest mixed bouquet |
| Boss | Orchids, formal arrangements |
| Teacher | Sunflowers, bright mixed bouquet |
| Close Friend | Peach or orange roses |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the safest flower choice if I'm unsure about the recipient?
A modest mixed bouquet in yellow or soft pink tones works safely across most non-romantic relationships when you're uncertain.
Why are chrysanthemums recommended for grandmothers over roses?
Chrysanthemums are tied to respect and longevity in Vietnamese tradition, often feeling more fitting for an older generation than the more modern association of roses.
Can I order flowers matched to a specific recipient for delivery in Vietnam from overseas?
Yes. SaigonFlowers accepts international payment and delivers nationwide across Vietnam, with guidance available on choosing recipient-appropriate arrangements.
Is it ever appropriate to send orchids to a colleague rather than a boss?
Orchids can work for a colleague too, though they're most commonly reserved for more formal relationships like a boss given their higher perceived value.
What should I avoid sending to a female boss?
Red roses or anything with romantic connotations should be avoided in favor of more formal, professional arrangements like orchids.
How much do these recipient-specific arrangements typically cost?
Pricing varies by flower type and arrangement size. Browse the Vietnamese Women's Day Flowers collection for current pricing.
