FLORIST

Early civilizations used flowers for decoration, for religious observances, and for celebrations. The ancient Egyptians put flowers in their hair and clothing, and placed flower arrangements on the altars of gods and goddesses. Ancient Greeks used wreaths for decoration, as gifts, and to honor athletes and other heroes. Today, winning marathon runners are still crowned with fragrant laurel wreaths, and Olympic champions receive large floral bouquets.

Through the centuries, people continued to use flowers. In the nineteenth century, flowers and gardening soared in popularity. Young women learned flower arranging, as well as music, sewing, and other skills. They wore small bouquets, called nosegays, tucked into their dresses in containers called bosom bottles. Or they carried small glass, pearl, or ivory vases known as posy holders.

In the 1950s, free-form expression influenced by the sixth-century style of Japanese arrangements called ikebana became popular. These arrangements used driftwood and even figurines. Today, florists use many styles, including traditional, free form, and ikebana, in their creations.