Flowers for results day, conferring and the debs

Irish students have three big moments: the Leaving Cert results, the debs and, a few years later, conferring day at college. Flowers are not compulsory at any of them, which is exactly why a well-chosen bunch stands out.

Sunflowers for a celebration — Sunflowers – pure cheer

Tulips in a bunch — Tulips – fresh start

Bright bouquets to say well done.

See bouquets

Leaving Cert results day

Results come out at the end of the summer, after a long wait since the exams in June. The day can bring relief, celebration or disappointment, and often all three in one house. Flowers delivered that day work whatever the outcome: they are a thank-you for two years of study rather than a reward for points. Choose something sunny and informal, such as sunflowers or mixed gerberas, and keep the card light.

Good card lines: “Whatever the points, we are so proud of you.” “Well done, the hard part is over.” “Onwards to the next adventure.”

The debs

The debs, the end-of-school dance, has its own flower custom. Couples usually exchange a corsage and a buttonhole that match the colours of the dress or the suit. Wrist corsages are popular because they do not damage the fabric. A rose or a spray carnation with a little greenery is the classic buttonhole; florists can also make one from a small orchid or a few sprigs of gypsophila. Bring a photo of the outfit when you order, and allow a week or so.

Conferring day

College graduation in Ireland is called conferring. Families travel to the campus, the graduate wears the gown, and the day is spent on the ceremony, photographs on the lawn and usually a meal. Some practical points:

Keep it small. A hand-tied bunch looks great in photos and can be carried all day.
Think about colour. Many gowns are black with coloured hoods, so bright flowers stand out well in pictures.
Or send to the house. Flowers waiting at home in the evening avoid carrying them around, and are the natural choice if you cannot be there.
Long-distance family. Grandparents or relatives abroad who miss the day often send flowers instead, with a card for the graduate.

Send congratulations anywhere in Ireland.

Choose flowers

Which flowers say well done

Sunflowers and gerberas

Big, open, happy faces. They suit a young person and do not look too formal. Gerberas last well and come in nearly every bright colour.

Tulips and mixed spring flowers

Tulips are a good pick for a student who finishes a course in winter or spring, when they are at their best.

Roses

Pink, peach or yellow roses say pride and affection without the romance of red. Keep red roses for a sweetheart.

Something in their colours

For a graduate who played county or college sport, flowers in team colours raise a smile.

Read our guide to sending flowers for practical advice on addresses and timing, and look up meanings in flower language.

Questions about graduation flowers

Do people give flowers for Leaving Cert results?

Some do, though it is less of a custom than cards or a night out. A cheerful bunch at the house on results day is a lovely surprise, whatever the points, because it celebrates the years of work rather than the grade.

Can I bring flowers to a conferring ceremony?

Yes, but you will be carrying them through the ceremony, the photos and often a meal afterwards. A compact hand-tied bunch is easier than a large arrangement, or have flowers waiting at home.

What flowers are used for the debs?

The tradition is a corsage for the girl or a wrist corsage, and a matching buttonhole for her date, often a rose or a spray carnation. Order through a florist a week or so ahead and bring a photo of the outfit.