Homecoming marks the first major school dance of the year. It’s a time for lightening up and having some fun as students ease into the school year ahead. Flowers are as much a part of the homecoming tradition as the football game held that weekend. Traditional corsages, wrist corsages and boutonnieres are all common flower accessories worn with homecoming outfits, but bringing your date a gorgeous bouquet is another way to start the evening out right. Consider these flower choices and ideas when making your homecoming selection this year:

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums, or “mums,” are considered the traditional homecoming flower. They can be used in corsages and boutonnieres or as a lively accent in mixed bouquets. You can really sweep your date off their feet with a Luscious Lavender Presentation Bouquet, rich with royal purple hues that include lavender spider chrysanthemums, white poms and purple velvet wings.

Carnations

The carnation is another traditional homecoming choice, offering a rich and elegantly textured bloom in a variety of colors. Carnations are often solid-toned but can also be a rich blend of two or more colors. Their layered, complex but compact shape makes them a great choice for homecoming boutonnieres. They look beautiful as an accent flower or as part of a bouquet or arrangement.

Orchids

The orchid brings an elegantly exotic feel to homecoming flower accents and arrangements. In shades of pink, purple, white and blends of color, they can look beautiful and chic in a wrist corsage. They also make for a striking boutonnier for the guys. A potted orchid is always a beautiful standalone gift, but they are also stunning as part of a bouquet or arrangement.

Roses

When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with roses. The rose is a striking choice for traditional corsages, wrist corsages and boutonnieres. Consider adding even more glamour with a Sequined Wrist Corsage or a Jeweled Wrist Corsage. They are available in a wide range of soft pastel colors to accent any outfit or homecoming color scheme. You can even get them in your school colors. Consider a rose Hand Tied Bouquet or a traditional rose bouquet of a dozen roses for your date. A Mad About You bouquet blends lavender roses with asters, iris and chartreuse.

Homecoming weekend is about fun, friends, football and, of course, showing your date how special they are. Use these tips as a guide to send the right message at homecoming with beautiful, fresh cut flowers.