The Delicate Traditions of Lily of the Valley
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria Majalis) is a delicate woodland bloom, prized for its sweet, intoxicating fragrance that evokes early Spring’s freshness. Its bell-shaped white flowers appear only briefly—approximately for 3 weeks in September in Australia—making their beauty cherished even more.
Despite their petite appearance, these blooms carry a heady scent that has long inspired perfumers and romantics alike.
While we celebrate this fleeting bloom for just a moment during Spring here in the southern hemisphere, France momentarily celebrate this bloom on their Labour Day, May 1st, and also carrying a softer, more fragrant tradition: the gifting of Muguet—Lily of the Valley.
This enchanting French custom dates back to 1561, when King Charles IX, charmed by the delicate white blooms, received a sprig and began presenting them to the women of his court each Spring. Over time, the gesture became a symbol of renewal, luck, and shared joy.
Today, the tradition of King Charles IX and Labour Day continue & across France, streets bloom with impromptu flower vendors selling petite bouquets tied with satin ribbon or tucked into paper cones.
Due to the fragile nature of the small stems, Lily of the Valley are best styled en masse rather than mixed with other blooms – we love to tie petite bunches on the outside of our gift wrapped bouquets, as a romantic token that can be placed in a tiny vase or champagne flute on the bedside table.
Sophisticated Brides adore the fragrance of Lily of the Valley for their wedding day with some Brides scheduling their celebration date around Lily of the Valley season so they can carry this beautiful romantic flower in a petite posy – both timeless & exquisite.