Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the Jewish year and is traditionally marked by festive meals and celebrations with friends and family. The holiday combines all the most beloved aspects of Judaism – food, family, tradition and symbolism – and is a fitting beginning to the New Year. Beautiful floral bouquets and arrangements are perfect for hostess gifts, or to send your good wishes to those across the miles. Ah Sam Flowers has the symbolic flowers you’ll need. Rosh Hashanah begins with lighting candles, making Kiddush and pronouncing a prayer of blessing over aromatic loaves of fresh challah dipped in honey. Apple slices are also dipped into honey; the apple symbolizes the circle of life, and honey represents hope for a sweet new year ahead. An important aspect of the festival is time spent in prayer at the synagogue. A machzor (prayer book) guides worshippers through the unique prayers recited on these High Holy Days. The shofar – a hollowed out ram’s horn – is blown throughout the day, calling Jews away from complacency and into the New Year.

When looking for a meaningful floral gift for the holiday, we look to the colors of Rosh Hashanah. Although there is no definitive shade that represents the holiday, white – which represents purity, innocence, and a fresh start – is considered to be an appropriate color for New Year festivities. Additionally, the color blue represents divinity in Jewish culture. Floral designs utilizing white lilies, roses, orchids, and hydrangea are classic and beautiful, and adding blue delphinium or blue iris adds a reverent touch. Rosh Hashanah customs vary regionally, but in all places the holiday is seen as both joyous and serious – hopeful for the New Year, and penitent as the faithful look forward to Yom Kippur (The Day of Atonement). If you cannot be with loved ones this Rosh Hashanah, send a gorgeous and heartfelt arrangement from Ah Sam Florist; and if you are staying in the San Mateo area, stop by and discuss a custom bouquet with our floral designers. L’Shanah Tovah to our Jewish friends!