The Day of the Dead occurs on November 1st and 2nd each year and is one of the most emblematic celebrations of Mexico and its culture. During this time, Mexican families honor the memory of their departed loved ones through beautiful altars that symbolize the connection between the world of the living and the afterlife.
In these offerings, flowers take center stage. That’s why in this article from Premium Florist, we will talk about the most representative flower of this day: the cempasúchil. Additionally, we will share some tips from our expert florists on how to create a Day of the Dead altar with love, respect, and flowers.
Shall we begin?
Cempasúchil
Also known as “the flower of the dead,” it is an icon of everything related to this tradition. Its vibrant orange color evokes the sunlight, while its distinctive aroma guides souls on their way back home.
The production and harvesting of cempasúchil begin months before the celebration, especially in states of Mexico like Puebla and Oaxaca. There, floriculturists carefully tend to the plants, which are handpicked when they bloom to preserve their freshness and beauty. Therefore, beyond the Day of the Dead, this flower reflects the deep bond communities have with their traditions and their land.
In fact, cempasúchil has properties you might not know about. Pre-Hispanic cultures used it to treat digestive issues, coughs, and to reduce fever. It is also used as a dye and as a natural insecticide.
Are you wondering what other flowers you can combine with it on your altar? Here are some options along with their respective meanings, but remember, you can include whichever flowers you desire:
- Nard: symbolizes the purity of the soul, and due to its intense fragrance, it is believed to attract spirits to the altar.
- Carnation: represents passion and eternal love, and is used to express the deep bond between the living and the deceased.
- Sunflower: with its radiant shape, it reflects life and joy, illuminating the altar and symbolizing the presence of loved ones.
The choice and arrangement of these flowers in your offering not only serve to decorate but also keep alive the memory of those who are no longer physically present. That’s why we want to give you some additional tips.
How to Create a Day of the Dead Altar
Setting up a Day of the Dead altar is, of course, an act of love and creativity. Traditionally, flowers and other elements are used to represent the feelings we have for our loved ones who are no longer with us. If you’re looking for some practical tips for your offering, we recommend:
Incorporating fresh, seasonal flowers, which will bring energy and life.
Experimenting with the height and arrangement of the flowers to add a dynamic touch. For example, placing taller flowers in the back and smaller or bushier ones at the lower levels or sides will give depth and structure to your altar.
Choosing vases and decorations that you can reuse. In addition to being a more sustainable choice, transparent containers can add a contemporary touch to the altar, allowing the flowers to take center stage.
Do You Need a More Detailed Guide to Designing a Floral Altar? We’re sharing 4 key steps for this November 1st and 2nd:
Choose the Right Space in Your Home.
Make sure you have an area where you can organize the flowers and other elements without interruptions. A spot with good natural lighting is ideal to highlight the vibrant colors of the flowers you’ll use.Select Traditional and Personal Flowers.
As mentioned earlier, cempasúchil is traditional, but you can also use flowers that have special meaning for you or for whom you dedicate the offering. For example, roses are a favorite for many people.The flowers should tell a story and keep the memory of those who have passed alive, so don’t hesitate to personalize it.
Add Symbolic Elements.
Candles, photographs, and the favorite foods of the deceased are essential. You can also include items that reflect their personality or hobbies. The flowers will accompany this visual narrative.Choose a Color Palette.
If you want to create a joyful atmosphere, combine cempasúchil with sunflowers or other orange or yellow flowers, whose radiant tones evoke light, life, and happiness.For a more introspective and solemn tone, purple flowers provide that reflective nuance you’re looking for, while white flowers represent purity and spiritual connection with the heavens.
Daring to combine flowers, colors, and symbolism will allow you to design a unique and personal altar that tells a story and honors the memory of your loved ones beautifully. Trust your intuition and bring your feelings to life through flowers!
Let’s Celebrate with Flowers
The Day of the Dead is a tradition that unites love and memory. That’s why, when we create altars, we honor our loved ones while keeping alive the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.
Keep in mind that the most important thing is for your offering to be an expression of love and respect, reflecting the deepest feelings for those you have loved. And the best way to achieve this is with flowers, especially with the most emblematic one of this celebration: cempasúchil.
That’s why at Premium Florist, we have created a special selection of arrangements filled with light, life, and memory to celebrate the Day of the Dead with you. Discover them by clicking here.