Every year on March 8, people around the world celebrate the women in their lives by marking International Women’s Day. It is a day to recognize the economic, political and social achievements of women. In addition to investing in women-owned businesses, providing resources to organizations that support women, many people also follow the tradition of giving flowers for the holiday.

Read on to learn more about the history behind International Women’s Day, what the holiday coincidence is like in Bulgaria, and why flowers are an important symbol for all who celebrate.

What is International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day is a global holiday endorsed by the United Nations that aims to celebrate the contribution of women to society and raise awareness of the areas of society that need to be improved in order to achieve gender equality.

It all began in New York on March 8, 1857, when women textile workers marched in protest against unfair working conditions and unequal rights for women. This was one of the first organized strikes by working women, during which they called for shorter working hours and decent wages.

Each year has an official theme, but unofficially many people use it as a day to remember all the women who have made an impact in their lives by giving them a beautiful bouquet, perfume or simply making them breakfast in bed.

What does the holiday mean for Bulgaria?

For Bulgaria, March 8 is an even more special day, because then we also celebrate Mother’s Day. This holiday is celebrated in almost all countries of the world, but on different dates. For us, as well as for a number of other countries, such as Albania, Mongolia and Serbia, the two holidays coincide. And although the traditions and customs of this holiday have their own national characteristics, in every country it is believed that on this day it is important to give special attention, love and gratitude to the mother. In most cultures, such a sign is a special bouquet for the mother.

What do the flowers symbolize for the holiday?

Whether you want to honor your mother or a loved one, flowers are an international language and, chosen with care, symbolize love and respect.

Roses, flowers for a thousand occasions, are often associated with motherhood, especially in softer shades such as pink, straw yellow, lilac. It is good to remember that roses were sacred to the Greek goddess Isis, who in mythology is the symbol of the ideal mother.

Red roses, remember to give them in odd numbers, are a classic Mother’s Day gift. They express strong appreciation and eternal love of man. And what is more eternal than the love between mother and child?

In the language of flowers, pink roses mean grace, elegance and appreciation, while yellow roses express joy and friendship. You can consider making a bouquet with both flowers.

If you want to appreciate the women in your life, we can recommend the following roses with personal messages to the woman or mother:

“Thank you for everything you give me and do for me!” –Pink Floyd

“You are strong, beautiful and gentle. Thank you for everything!”- Candlelight

“Natural, fearless, charismatic and gentle – that’s you!” – Red Panter

“Your smile is the most beautiful and sweetest thing in the world. Be smiling all the time!” – Bumblebee 

“The world needs your fire and your soul!” – Explorer

“I love you for your kindness and dedication!”– Be sweet

“Thank you for the love and warmth you give me!” – Pomarosa

“Be real, be tender and lovely!”  – Pink mondial

Dare to show your sweetheart or mother that you love her.