Flowers still sing despite tech bloom

HARD to imagine a world without Facebook and Messenger, right? Or even text messaging between friends or lovers or even “frenemies’’. The younger people in my life tell me this is the term for people you speak to but don’t really like.

Those alive more than a century ago, in the Victorian era, had none of the communication tools many now take for granted. Young lovers or gossiping friends also had to contend with a strict social hierarchy and a complex set of customs that dictated even the simplest of meetings.

Cue the good ol’ bouquet. Those cheeky Victorians managed to imbibe the individual blooms with meanings. And so sending a bunch of flowers to the secret lover’s home became the floral Facebook of the 19th century.

Author Cheralyn Darcey has spent more than 30 years studying all things floral. She shares with Weekend some of what she knows about this hidden language, and how to make it work for you.

Also in this issue, four women who have built successful home businesses give guidance to others who want to take the plunge, and a Tokyo trip provides an opportunity to assess the city’s controlled chaos.

Talking of getting away, are you in need of an escape to the Gold Coast with your best friend? Fancy a bit of retail therapy and taking your tastebuds on a world tour? Our Girls’ Weekend Away competition is still open. Details are in the travel section.

And, if in need of a little cosmopolitan cafe culture but you cannot leave the house, check out our easy eating section for recipes inspired by Melbourne’s food scene. Enjoy the read.