From holiday getaways and long-awaited vacations to quick business trips, airports have become the backdrop for some seriously special reunions. Whether it’s hugs after months apart or a quick “yay, you’re back!” moment, these reunions deserve a little extra love, and flowers are always a good idea! Think cheerful blooms that say “welcome home,” “I missed you,” or even just “so happy you’re here.” Flowers are here to brighten someone’s day and speak from the heart without saying a word. To help you create the sweetest airport welcome, the experts at Boesen the Florist, the best flower shop in Des Moines, are sharing their favorite floral picks and the meaningful messages behind them.

Welcoming Loved Ones with Meaningful Flowers

Fresh Flowers for Friends

There’s something extra special about greeting a friend at the airport with flowers. It’s a small gesture that makes a big impact, especially if they’ve traveled from far away or you haven’t seen each other in a while. A cheerful bouquet can instantly share how happy you are to see them and set the tone for your time together. Look for blooms that symbolize true friendship and warm connections. Think sunny hues, cozy florals, and lots of happy color.

• Alstroemeria – Friendship and Optimism
• Chrysanthemums – “You’re a wonderful friend”
• Geraniums – True Friendship
• Iris – “Your friendship means so much to me”
• Yellow Roses – Friendship and Joy
• Yellow Tulips – Friendship and Cheerfulness
• Zinnias – “Never forget absent friends”

Romantic Blooms for Significant Others

There’s nothing quite like welcoming your partner home with a big, stunning bouquet of romantic flowers and creating a moment that gives you both butterflies. Whether they’ve been away for work or flew in just to see you, a grand bouquet is the perfect way to say “I’ve missed you so much, and I love you!” Think lush, fragrant blooms that ooze romance and show just how much you care. It’s old-school romance with a fresh, modern twist.

• Dahlia – Excitement and Lasting Bond
• Forget-Me-Not – “True love memories”
• Roses – Romance, Passion, and Love
• Honeysuckle – “The bond of love”
• Lavender – Enchantment, and Love at First Sight
• Pink Camellia – Longing and often given to those we miss
• Red Chrysanthemums – “I love you”
• Stocks – Bonds of Affection and Happy Life

Meaningful Petals for Family

Family reunions at the airport deserve a little extra magic, and there is no better way to say “welcome” than with a bouquet full of vibrant blooms. From thanking them for the visit to celebrating their safe return, flowers turn a sweet moment into a lasting memory. Peach, orange, and pink flowers are especially perfect for family greetings as they symbolize gratitude, affection, and the joy of being together again.

• Hydrangea – Sincerely Heartfelt and Gratitude
• Orange Tulips – Warmth
• Peach Roses – Missing Someone
• Pink Carnations – Gratitude and a Mother’s Undying Love

Cheerful Flowers for Any Traveler/Visitor

Whether you’re picking up a guest, a colleague, or any visitor from out of town, greeting them with flowers is such a thoughtful way to make them feel welcomed and appreciated. Even if you’re not super close, a simple bouquet can say all the right things, including “we’re glad you’re here” and “make yourself at home.” Think cheerful blooms in bright, happy colors to spark joy and set a warm, inviting tone for their stay.

• Baby’s Breath – Happiness
• Calla Lilies – Rejuvenation, Classy Style, and Luxurious Appeal
• Gerbera Daisies – Cheerfulness and Loyal Love
• Pink Roses – Appreciation, Joy, and Gratitude
• Safflowers – Welcome
• Sunflowers – Happiness
• Sweet Pea – “Thank you,” Bliss, Pleasure, and a great way to bid someone “farewell” after a wonderful visit
• Wisteria – Welcome
• Yellow Lily – Gratitude

Related Meanings of Colors

Sure, flower varieties carry special meanings, but don’t forget about the powerful symbolism of color. The shade of a bloom can totally shift the vibe and help you express exactly how you feel. Whether it’s love, appreciation, happiness, or just a warm welcome, the right hue makes all the difference. So when you’re picking out your next airport bouquet, pay attention to those pretty petal colors—they’ve got something to say, too!

• Light Pink – Admiration
• Peach – Gratitude
• Pink – Gratitude and Appreciation
• Red – Passion, Love, and Romance
• Yellow – Joy and Friendship

Welcoming someone with fresh flowers has been a feel-good tradition for generations. Take Hawaii, for example, where greeting travelers with a lei is more than just a photo op. This meaningful custom began in the 1800s, when islanders greeted visitors arriving by steamship with handmade leis crafted from flowers, shells, and nuts. It was their way of saying “aloha,” expressing warmth, honor, and love. Today, whether you’re handing over a lei or a bouquet, that same energy lives on in every petal. Fresh flowers make reunions and welcomes even more seincere and memorable.

There’s nothing quite like the joy of reuniting with someone you’ve missed, and the right flowers can make that moment even more magical. Let the beauty and symbolism of blooms inspire your next airport “hello.” Whether it’s a grand romantic gesture or a simple way to say “I’m so glad you’re here,” Boesen the Florist has the perfect bouquet to help you express it all.