Every November 1 and 2, Filipino families gather to commemorate All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. While white flowers traditionally symbolize remembrance, I love the idea of choosing blooms that reflect someone’s favorite colors or personality. After all, honoring their memory can also mean celebrating the life they lived.
Here are four floral finds I recommend, each offering something different.
1. Your Trusted Florist: For Something Personal and Creative
One of my DLSU classmates has so many hobbies, but floral design is where I think her talent really shines. Her taste is impeccable, and she puts genuine care into her arrangements. I’ve even seen her creatively achieve a requested color palette when flowers weren’t available in those exact shades!
For a custom tribute, ask about roses and lisianthus. Roses are perfect for honoring someone’s favorite color, while lisianthus adds delicate, garden-like texture. I’d suggest a loose, asymmetrical arrangement for a softer, more contemporary look. Share reference photos and give her time to source or suggest suitable blooms.
2. FlowerStore.ph: For Easy, Ready-to-Order Arrangements
FlowerStore.ph has saved me countless times, from gifts for my mom and best friends to helping my guy friends surprise their girlfriends. When I need something beautiful without overthinking every detail, it’s a convenient choice.
Look for carnations and gerberas. Carnations offer fullness and relatively good vase life, while gerberas add cheerful color. A bouquet in matching tones feels contemporary without being overly elaborate. The store offers same-day delivery in selected areas, but place Undas orders early and confirm the delivery schedule.
3. Libertad Flower Vendors: For Affordable, Everyday Blooms
Near LRT-1 Libertad Station, Pasay City
When I lived around Libertad, I bought myself flowers just because. I loved being able to browse affordable bunches without needing a special occasion.
For a simple graveside arrangement, look for asters and sampaguita garlands, depending on availability. Asters bring tiny, airy blooms to a compact vase, while fragrant sampaguita adds a distinctly Filipino touch. Compare a few sellers, explain your budget, and prioritize fresh stems over elaborate wrapping. Sometimes, the simplest arrangements are also the most beautiful.
4. Dangwa Flower Market: For DIY Arrangements and More Choices
Laon-Laan, Sampaloc, Manila
Dangwa is my pick when you want choices upon choices, whether you’re working with a modest budget or designing several arrangements yourself.
Consider Malaysian chrysanthemums, orchids, and anthuriums. Chrysanthemums create generous volume, orchids introduce elegance, and glossy anthuriums make a striking tropical centerpiece.
For a modern look, keep your arrangement within one color family or let the sculptural flowers stand alone. You can also mix different heights and textures for a more natural, garden-inspired design. Visit early to browse more comfortably, compare prices, and remember that costs often rise closer to November 1.
A Few Things to Remember Before Visiting
Choose a sturdy, reusable vase instead of excessive plastic wrapping, and check your cemetery’s rules regarding decorations. Trim the stems, remove leaves below the waterline, and keep flowers cool until your visit.
Anyways, I think there’s something beautiful about remembering people through the things they loved, including their favorite flowers. Whether it’s an elaborate arrangement or a single thoughtfully chosen stem, what matters is the memory behind it.
And sometimes, celebrating someone’s life is just as meaningful as mourning their absence.
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