Blog
Roses or Lilies for an Anniversary? How to Choose the Perfect Bouque
Roses or Lilies for an Anniversary? How to Choose the Perfect Bouque
Choose roses if you want a classic, unmistakable expression of romantic love, especially for a first anniversary, a milestone, or a “never-fail” gift. Choose lilies if your partner prefers elegant, fragrant, statement flowers that symbolize devotion and commitment, or if you want something a little different. If you can’t decide, a mixed rose and lily bouquet gives you both.
At Laris Florist, we help couples across Toronto, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Markham, and the GTA make this decision every week. Below is a practical guide to what each flower means, how long each lasts, and which one suits your relationship.
Why Anniversary Flowers Matter
An anniversary is one of the few occasions where the flowers carry real meaning. A bouquet says “I remember,” “I’m still choosing you,” and “this day matters.” The right choice depends on your partner’s taste, your milestone, and the message you want to send.
Roses and lilies are the two most requested anniversary flowers at our shop. Both are beautiful, but they say different things.
Roses for an Anniversary: The Classic Choice
Roses have symbolized love for centuries. Their layered petals, rich colours, and timeless shape make them the default anniversary flower for good reason.
What roses symbolize
Red roses: deep love, passion, and romance
Pink roses: gratitude, admiration, and gentle affection
White roses: loyalty, new beginnings, and pure love
Yellow roses: friendship, joy, and warmth, a classic choice for a 50th anniversary
Peach and coral roses: appreciation and sincerity
Lavender roses: enchantment and love at first sight
Pros of choosing roses
Instantly recognizable. Nobody wonders what a dozen red roses mean.
Flexible. You can choose a single stem, a dozen, two dozen, or a full arrangement, depending on your budget and the occasion.
Long vase life. With proper care, quality roses can last roughly a week or more.
Colour options. You can match the colour to your relationship’s story.
Mild scent. Roses are fragrant without overwhelming a room.
Cons to consider
Roses are the expected choice, so they can feel less personal unless paired with a thoughtful card or accompanying blooms.
Peak-season demand, especially around Valentine’s Day, can raise prices.
Best for
First anniversaries, romantic dinners, proposals-turned-milestones, and partners who love traditional romance.
Lilies for an Anniversary: Elegant and Memorable
Lilies bring height, drama, and fragrance. Their large, open blooms make a bouquet look full and luxurious, even with fewer stems.
What lilies symbolize
White lilies: purity, devotion, and commitment
Pink lilies (Stargazer and Oriental): prosperity, admiration, and romance
Orange lilies: passion and confidence
Yellow lilies: gratitude and joy
Lilies are often linked to long-term devotion, which makes them a strong fit for established couples.
Pros of choosing lilies
Dramatic presence. One or two stems create a bold visual impact.
Strong fragrance. Oriental lilies are known for their rich scent.
Multiple blooms per stem. Buds open gradually, so the bouquet keeps changing over several days.
Distinctive. Lilies feel less expected than roses.
Strong value. Because each stem carries several blooms, a lily bouquet can feel generous.
Cons to consider
Fragrance can be strong. Some people find it too intense, especially in small spaces.
Pollen can stain. Florists often remove the anthers, and we recommend asking us to do so.
Pet safety. Lilies are highly toxic to cats, and even small exposures can be dangerous. If you have a cat at home, choose a different flower or consult your vet.
Best for
Couples who value elegance, partners who love fragrance, milestone anniversaries, and anyone who wants something beyond the traditional rose.
Roses vs. Lilies: Side-by-Side Comparison
Factor Roses Lilies
Main message Romance and passion Devotion and commitment
Style Classic, timeless Elegant, bold
Fragrance Mild to moderate Strong
Vase life About 7 days or more with care About 7 to 10 days as buds open
Pet safety Generally safer, though thorns need care Toxic to cats
Best for First anniversaries, romantic gestures Established couples, statement gifts
Wow factor Familiar and beloved Dramatic and unique
How to Choose: Five Questions to Ask Yourself
What does your partner already love?
Think about the flowers they stop to admire, the ones in their home, or the ones from your wedding. Their favourites are your best guide.
- Which anniversary is this?
1st anniversary: Roses are the heartfelt classic, and many people treat red roses as the go-to romantic flower for early milestones.
5th to 15th: Mix roses with lilies for depth and variety.
25th (silver): White roses and white lilies feel refined and ceremonial.
50th (golden): Yellow or gold-toned roses, paired with lilies, mark a lifetime together. - What message do you want to send?
If you want to say “I’m still head over heels,” go with red roses. If you want to say “I’m devoted to you for life,” lilies speak that language beautifully.
Where will the flowers live?
A strong-scented lily bouquet is stunning in a large living room but may be overwhelming in a small bedroom or office. Roses are easier to place almost anywhere.
Are there allergies or pets?
If anyone in the home has allergies, ask us about low-pollen or low-fragrance options. If you have cats, skip lilies entirely.
Can’t Decide? Mix Roses and Lilies
You don’t have to choose just one. Combining the two gives you romance and elegance in a single arrangement. Popular pairings at Laris Florist include:
Red roses with white lilies: bold contrast and classic romance
Pink roses with pink Oriental lilies: soft, romantic, and fragrant
White roses with white lilies: clean, elegant, ideal for milestone anniversaries
Roses, lilies, and eucalyptus or baby’s breath: a textured, modern look with greenery and filler flowers
A skilled florist balances stem height, colour, and fragrance so the arrangement looks cohesive rather than crowded.
Tips to Make Your Anniversary Bouquet Last Longer
Whichever flower you choose, a few habits will extend its life:
Trim the stems. Cut about 2 cm off the bottom at an angle.
Use clean water and a clean vase. Bacteria shorten flower life.
Add flower food. Use the packet that comes with your bouquet.
Change the water every one to two days.
Keep flowers away from heat and direct sun. Avoid placing them near heaters, appliances, or ripening fruit.
Remove lily anthers early. This prevents staining and can help the blooms last.
Remove leaves below the waterline. This keeps the water cleaner.
Anniversary Flower Delivery in Toronto, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Markham & the GTA
Choosing the flowers is half the story. The other half is getting them to your partner fresh and on time.
Laris Florist serves customers in:
Toronto: from downtown condos to neighbourhoods across the city
Markham: family homes, offices, and restaurant surprises
Richmond Hill: perfect for a surprise at home or at work
Newmarket: a local florist for the York Region community
The wider GTA: surrounding communities, depending on delivery availability
Whether you’re surprising a partner at the office, planning a romantic dinner, or celebrating a milestone with family, we can arrange a hand-crafted bouquet designed for your occasion. For timing questions, including same-day delivery and cut-off times, contact our team directly, since availability depends on your delivery address and the day.
Pro tip: Anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day are busy seasons. Order a few days ahead for the best selection and delivery slots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are roses or lilies better for an anniversary?
Neither is universally better. Roses suit classic romance and are a safe choice for most couples. Lilies suit partners who love elegance and fragrance, and they symbolize devotion. A mixed bouquet combines both.
What do red roses mean on an anniversary?
Red roses symbolize deep love and passion. They are the most traditional romantic anniversary flower.
What do lilies symbolize in a relationship?
Lilies commonly symbolize devotion, commitment, and admiration. White lilies in particular are associated with purity and lasting love.
Which lasts longer, roses or lilies?
Both can last about a week or more with proper care. Lilies often feel longer-lasting because buds keep opening over several days, while roses reach full bloom more quickly.
Are lilies safe for pets?
No. Lilies are highly toxic to cats, and exposure can be serious. If you have a cat, choose a pet-safe alternative or consult your veterinarian before bringing lilies home.
How many roses should I give for an anniversary?
A dozen is the classic choice. Some couples give one rose per year of marriage, or 24 roses to represent every hour of the day. Ask your florist to match the number to your budget and the meaning you want.
What flowers are best for a first anniversary?
Roses are a popular first-anniversary choice. Carnations, the traditional flower for year one, also make a charming addition.
Can I order anniversary flowers for delivery in Markham, Richmond Hill, Newmarket, or Toronto?
Yes. Laris Florist delivers anniversary bouquets across Toronto, Markham, Richmond Hill, Newmarket, and the GTA. Contact us for delivery areas and timing.
Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?
If your partner loves tradition and romance, roses will never let you down. If they appreciate elegance, fragrance, and something a little unexpected, lilies are a beautiful, meaningful choice. And if you want the best of both, a rose and lily bouquet makes a statement that feels personal and polished.
The most important ingredient is thoughtfulness. A bouquet chosen with your partner in mind, with a handwritten card to match, will mean more than any flower on its own.
Ready to order? Contact Laris Florist today to create a hand-crafted anniversary bouquet delivered to Toronto, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Markham, or anywhere in the GTA. Tell us your partner’s favourite colours and the milestone you’re celebrating, and we’ll design something unforgettable.
