A protocol bouquet implies compliance with clear regulations, since according to business etiquette it is a pleasant but targeted gift that is presented at a meeting, at events or official receptions as a sign of attention, respect, friendly attitude and long–term business ties. Special importance is attached to various types of plants and their colors when making business bouquets. Each state has its own laws of color and colors, which embody centuries-old national traditions.
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Traditions and stereotypes of the floral protocol.
During official celebrations and award ceremonies, the protocol takes into account the color discipline of heraldry and flags of a particular state. A business bouquet can be sent before the reception, presented at the ceremony itself, or sent after as a token of appreciation. If the bouquet is not presented in person, then you must attach a card with pleasant words of gratitude and appreciation.
In different countries, the number of large flowers in a bouquet can be either even or not even. In Russia, there should be an odd number in the bouquet of dominant flowers, but this rule is not followed in Europe and the Middle East.
If the flower arrangement consists of small flowers, then attention is not focused on their number in the bouquet.
In many countries, there are traditions and stereotypes associated with plant species and their color shades, which are important to know and apply when making a protocol bouquet.
For example, the white chrysanthemum is an extremely capricious flower, which in Hungary symbolizes sorrow, in France it is a sad event, but in Japan it is revered as a sign of imperial greatness. In Asia and the Middle East, white symbolizes mourning, but plants of bright shades represent joy and respect. For example, in India, when meeting a guest and his wife, they present a garland of fresh flowers as a greeting, and in Thailand – bracelets made of terry jasmine flowers. The French express their respect with bouquets of pastel-colored tulips, and attach expensive wine, cheeses and chocolates to them. In Germany, it is customary to give bouquets on the first visit to the house, the first public acquaintance or on an Anniversary. The only exception is the red roses, which are perceived by the Germans as a symbol of passionate love.
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The main points in the preparation of a protocol bouquet.
- When making a bouquet, size, shape, color and weight are important.
- In most cases, the diameter of the protocol bouquet should not exceed 35-40 cm. When making a bouquet, take into account the height and complexion of the person to whom the presentation is planned.
- The shape of the bouquet is a hemisphere.
- According to the color shades, the protocol bouquet should not be too bright and contrasting. The bouquet in this colorist will perfectly fit into any wardrobe and location. A high level of preparation for the event can be demonstrated if you find out in advance what color scheme the participant of the award ceremony will be wearing.
- Weight – no more than two kilograms
If these proportions are observed, the probability of getting a harmonious picture in photo and video shooting increases.
Bouquets of cream and pastel tones, made up in the same color scheme, are relevant. Such a composition in the photo does not stand out from the general background, does not look like a bright spot, but only beautifully complements the plot.
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A protocol bouquet. We avoid mistakes.
The protocol bouquet should not be a problem for the recipient.
For example, gladiolus is considered an interior flower by all rules, its leg is too long, and the location of the buds does not allow it to be beautifully included in the bouquet.
In addition, gladioli in flowerpots are relevant exclusively in light colors, and only at outdoor events. In general, this is an extremely risky choice, since it is very difficult to create a harmonious composition with this plant.
Secular etiquette is not always appropriate for a formal bouquet.
Due to the lack of information when drawing up the protocol, many risk presenting flowers of mourning shades at a solemn event. For example, red shades of roses can be understood ambiguously, since a bright and juicy tone in the language of flowers means love, but darker, maroon roses can be found at official funeral ceremonies. In our country, long-stemmed roses have always been considered expensive, luxurious, and very statuesque. Therefore, presenting a bouquet of roses to the older generation is regarded as aerobatics.
The white rose is considered a symbol of pure thoughts and high spirituality. If flowers of cream and pale pink shades can be found in the festive decoration of churches and monasteries, it is customary for the patriarch and priests to give flowers of pure white shades exclusively in a solemn atmosphere.
According to secular and business etiquette, it is not customary for elderly women to present bouquets with white flowers, and for young people – bright, provocative bouquets.
Floral traditions of different countries. What is important to know!
The “floral” traditions of the Middle East and Asia differ from those of Europe. If the white color symbolizes grace and subtlety for us, then in eastern culture it is associated with funeral ceremonies. For example, in Turkey, white, blue and purple shades of flowers mean sorrow and sadness.
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In this country, as in China, an odd number of flowers in a bouquet is considered a symbol of loneliness and the end of life, whereas in Russia, the deceased, according to tradition, is accompanied by a bouquet of an even number of flowers.
Chinese culture is also distinguished by its peculiarities of business floral etiquette. Freshly cut flowers in the East are considered dead, and yellow and white lilies and chrysanthemums indicate mourning. In general, in China, bouquets containing peonies, bamboo, dahlias, sunflowers are treated with warmth. If it is not accepted to give artificial flowers in Russia, then in China it is considered the norm to receive a bouquet of artificial flowers as a gift.
On a note!
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By the way, the national flower of Russia is chamomile, cornflower, leon and fern are revered in Belarus, narcissus is considered a special flower in China, lotus in Egypt, and Orchid in the most expensive Asian city Singapore. In sunny and hospitable Azerbaijan, the pomegranate flower is considered a symbol of luxury and prosperity, and in Japan, the terry chrysanthemum is considered such. Few people know that the tulip, which is now considered the national flower of Turkey, was a symbol of the Ottoman Empire many centuries ago. This cheat sheet will help you create a protocol bouquet.
The material has been prepared:
Nadezhda Fedorova, Director of the Flower Protocol Department of the International Women’s Union, Commercial Director of IFC (International Floral Code) – business floristry and landscaping, Executive Director of the International Discussion Club VISION 3000, Managing Partner of the Radisson Slavyanskaya Flower Fashion House
Olga Postnikova, Head of the Floral Protocol department of the Embassy Life Online publication, Creative Director of IFC (International Floral Code) – business floristry and landscaping, Managing Partner of the Radisson Slavyanskaya Floral Fashion House
