A Guide to Giving Flowers to a Man
When to give and how to buy the right flowers for your husband.
BY DIANE GOTTSMAN

DepositPhotos You may not think your husband would like flowers, but regardless he'll love the surprise. “ There are many occasions when flowers or simply a live plant in general can be a thoughtful, welcome surprise for a man.”

It’s a rare woman who doesn’t enjoy receiving an arrangement of fresh-cut flowers for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day or "just because" a family member, friend or thoughtful spouse is thinking of her. But here’s an idea: though flowers are traditionally a gift that a man would give his wife, flowers can be a great gift for men too. There are many occasions when flowers or simply a live plant in general can be a thoughtful, welcome surprise for a man.

The advantages for sending a floral arrangement to your husband are the same that all women appreciate: they’re beautiful, they instantly cheer up a room, they let the recipient know someone is thinking of them and they bring a smile to someone’s face.

So, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day and to make flower giving a completely androgynous endeavor throughout the year, here are a few occasions when flowers (or a plant) might be just the right way to show appreciation for your loving husband.

A job well done. If your husband receives honors for a special achievement, saying congratulations with a nice arrangement would certainly be in order. Surprise him at the office along with a thoughtful card.

Get well soon. Who doesn’t like a cheery bouquet of flowers when feeling a little down in the dumps or under the weather? Placing a nice bouquet next to the bed will brighten up his day.

An apology. Flowers are a great way to say, "I’m sorry." He may be so stunned that he is receiving flowers that he may forget why he’s mad at you in the first place!

A change of scenery. Flowers are always a nice way to make his office more inviting. This is where a plant, in particular, can come in handy. Brighten it up with a nice succulent that requires only once-in-a-while watering or a blooming cactus.

Birthdays. He deserves to feel special on his birthday. The fact that flowers are unexpected takes the well wishes to a new level. Include in the bouquet some special dinner reservations and movie tickets.

Thinking of you. Men like knowing that their significant other is thinking about them and a nice bouquet of flowers with an "I love you" card enclosed will make his day.

Guidelines for Choosing a Bouquet for a Man:

* Select vibrant colored flowers; pastel colors are more feminine.

* If you feel strongly that a floral arrangement will make your man squirm, send a "manly" houseplant like bonsai or bamboo.

* Opt for an artistic, uniquely designed arrangement that mirrors his personality, rather than the classic rose bouquet.

* Exotic flowers are more masculine than carnations or daisies.

* Include a little something extra to the bouquet like candy, chocolates or a gift certificate for two to a spa.

Not so sure your honey would appreciate a bouquet delivered to the lumberyard or hardware store? Simply re-read this article and replace all references to "flowers" with the phrase "tickets to a sporting event" and see what kind of response you get.

Diane Gottsman, a nationally recognized etiquette expert, is the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in etiquette training for corporations, universities and individuals, striving to polish their interpersonal skills. You can reach Diane at 877-490-1077 or www.protocolschooloftexas.com. You can also follow her on Twitter @: www.twitter.com/DianeGottsman.

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