The Meaning Behind Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Gratitude, History, and Family

We believe every season tells a story — and Thanksgiving might just be the most heartfelt one of all. Before the pumpkin pie and football games, this American tradition began as a simple meal rooted in resilience, generosity, and gratitude — values we still hold close today.

A Feast That Shaped a Nation

The origins of Thanksgiving trace back to 1621, when English settlers known as the Pilgrims, having survived a brutal first winter in Plymouth (present-day Massachusetts), gathered to share a harvest feast with members of the Wampanoag tribe. Thanks to the support and teachings of the Indigenous people, especially a man named Squanto, the colonists learned to grow corn, fish, and preserve food — essential skills for surviving in the New World.

That three-day gathering — rich in shared food and cultural exchange — became the first chapter in what would grow into one of America’s most cherished holidays. Learn more about the history of Thanksgiving.

From Local Celebration to National Holiday

Despite that first gathering in 1621, Thanksgiving didn’t become a national holiday until over two centuries later. During the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared in 1863 that the last Thursday of November would be a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise.” His hope? That a unified day of reflection might help heal a deeply divided nation.

Since then, Thanksgiving has evolved far beyond the historical feast. While the core values of gratitude, unity, and abundance remain, today’s celebrations also include:

• Turkey dinners with classic sides like stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie.

• Football games enjoyed with family and friends

• The iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with its giant balloons and marching bands

• And for many, a time to start decorating for the winter holidays — often with fresh florals and wreaths to welcome guests and brighten the home

What Thanksgiving Means Today in Gaithersburg and Beyond

In 2025, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27. For many in Gaithersburg, Montgomery Village, Germantown, Rockville, and the surrounding Maryland communities, it’s more than just a holiday — it’s a chance to pause, reconnect, and give thanks for the beauty in our lives.

Whether you’re hosting a traditional meal or attending a Friendsgiving gathering, flowers can elevate the spirit of the season. Warm autumn arrangements with sunflowers, mums, orange roses, and eucalyptus bring natural elegance to any table. And if you can’t be there in person, a delivered bouquet is a heartfelt way to say “I’m grateful for you.”

A Modern Thanksgiving Touch from Tognoli Florist

As a local, woman-owned florist, we know that gratitude comes in many forms — from a homemade meal to a handwritten card to a carefully curated floral arrangement. That’s why we offer:

• Thanksgiving centerpieces for your holiday table

• Seasonal bouquets perfect for gifting hosts or loved ones

• Same-day flower delivery across Gaithersburg, Montgomery Village, Potomac, Germantown, and more

• Custom add-ons like gourmet baskets, greeting cards, or locally made goodies for the perfect gift

Looking for more ways to honor the season? Visit our The Christmas Tree Tradition blog post and explore the meaningful traditions behind other holidays we love celebrating with flowers.

Gratitude in Bloom 🌿

This Thanksgiving, let’s remember that gratitude doesn’t have to be grand — it can be as simple as saying “thank you”, sharing a meal, or sending a bouquet to someone who made your year a little brighter.

From all of us at Tognoli Florist, thank you for letting us be part of your celebrations. May your heart — and your home — be full this Thanksgiving.

Mother’s Day 2025: A Celebration of Love, History, and Flowers

Mother’s Day is a cherished tradition, a time to honor and celebrate the incredible contributions of mothers around the world. At Tognoli Florist, we take pride in helping you express your love with exquisite floral arrangements. As we prepare for Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 11, 2025, let’s dive into the rich history and global traditions of this special day, including the fascinating story of Anna Jarvis, the woman behind its modern observance.

The Origins of Mother’s Day

The roots of Mother’s Day stretch back to ancient times.

• In Greece, people celebrated Rea, the mother of gods like Zeus and Poseidon, with offerings and festivities.

• In Rome, the festival of “Hilaria” honored Cybele, the mother goddess, and featured three days of ceremonies starting on March 15.

• Similarly, in Egypt, Isis, the mother of pharaohs, was revered as a symbol of maternal devotion.

Fast forward to the 19th century, and Mother’s Day as we know it began to take shape in the United States, thanks to the tireless efforts of two remarkable women: Julia Ward Howe and Anna Jarvis.

Anna Jarvis: The Passion and the Paradox

The modern version of Mother’s Day owes much to Anna Jarvis, an American homemaker who wanted to dedicate a special day to all mothers, inspired by the life and legacy of her own mother, Ann Marie Jarvis. Ann Marie had been a social activist during the U.S. Civil War, organizing women to care for soldiers on both sides of the conflict. She often expressed her hope:

“I hope and pray that someone, sometime, will dedicate a day to honor mothers and their unparalleled service to humanity in every area of life” (National Women’s History Alliance).

When Ann Marie passed away in 1905, Anna Jarvis took these words to heart. That same year, she founded the International Mother’s Day Association. She chose the second Sunday of May, the anniversary of her mother’s death, to commemorate the occasion.

In 1907, Anna held the first modern Mother’s Day celebration in a church in Grafton, West Virginia, gifting 500 white carnations to mothers in the congregation. Carnations, her mother’s favorite flower, symbolized purity, love, and enduring motherhood.

Anna’s campaign to make Mother’s Day a national holiday succeeded in 1914, when President Woodrow Wilson signed it into law. However, as the holiday’s popularity grew, so did Anna’s frustration with its commercialization.

Anna Jarvis became a vocal critic of businesses—especially florists, candy makers, and card manufacturers—that she believed were exploiting the holiday for profit. For her, Mother’s Day was meant to be a “sacred” day for families to honor their mothers with heartfelt gestures, not commercial transactions. Despite her efforts to reclaim the holiday’s spirit, she spent the final years of her life disheartened by how it had evolved.

Honoring Anna Jarvis’s Vision

Anna Jarvis’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the deeper meaning behind Mother’s Day. While she criticized the commercialization of the holiday, her original intent remains timeless: to honor the unparalleled contributions of mothers with genuine love and gratitude.

At Tognoli Florist, we respect Anna Jarvis’s vision by creating floral arrangements that go beyond simple transactions. Our flowers are thoughtfully designed to help families express their feelings in a personal and meaningful way. For us, each bouquet represents more than just beauty—it’s a symbol of heartfelt appreciation, love, and connection.

Thoughtful, Not Commercial: The Tognoli Florist Approach

We believe flowers are a powerful way to convey emotions that words sometimes cannot. This Mother’s Day, instead of focusing on materialism, we encourage our customers to embrace the holiday’s original intent: showing love and gratitude for mothers everywhere. Our team carefully crafts each bouquet with this philosophy in mind, ensuring that every arrangement feels unique and genuine.

Here’s how we honor the spirit of Mother’s Day:

• Personalized Floral Designs: From classic carnations to vibrant spring blooms, we create arrangements tailored to your mom’s personality and preferences.

• Heartfelt Delivery: Our local delivery service ensures your gift arrives fresh and full of love, whether you’re near or far.

• A Commitment to Quality: Every bouquet is designed with care, reflecting the importance of this special day.

By choosing Tognoli Florist, you’re not just giving flowers—you’re giving a meaningful gesture that celebrates your mom’s irreplaceable role in your life.

How Mother’s Day is Celebrated Around the World

While the U.S. observes Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May, traditions vary worldwide. Here are some highlights:

• United States (May 11, 2025): Families gather to honor mothers with gifts, cards, and flowers. Carnations, Anna Jarvis’s favorite flower, symbolize purity and enduring love.

• Spain (May 4, 2025): Celebrated on the first Sunday of May, Mother’s Day in Spain is deeply rooted in Catholic traditions, often linked to the Virgin Mary.

• Mexico (May 10, 2025): Known as “Día de las Madres”, this vibrant celebration features mariachi music, family meals, and abundant floral gifts.

• Thailand (August 12): Mother’s Day coincides with the birthday of Queen Sirikit, and jasmine flowers, symbolizing maternal love and purity, are the traditional gift.

• Russia (March 8): Celebrated alongside International Women’s Day, Mother’s Day in Russia honors mothers and women in general.

• United Kingdom (March 30, 2025): Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, three weeks before Easter, reflects the Christian tradition of visiting their mother Church, honoring mothers and the Virgin Mary, with church services and gifts.

• Argentina (October 19, 2025): Celebrated on the third Sunday of October, this date reflects the Catholic tradition of honoring the Virgin Mary’s motherhood.

Celebrate Mother’s Day 2025 with Tognoli Florist

At Tognoli Florist, we specialize in creating heartfelt floral arrangements that make every mom feel special. Whether you’re hosting a Mother’s Day brunch or sending flowers from afar, our expertly crafted bouquets convey love and appreciation. Here are some of our popular choices:

• Classic Carnations: A timeless symbol of love and admiration.

• Roses in Soft Hues: Perfect for expressing gratitude.

• Seasonal Spring Blooms: Fresh tulips, lilies, and daffodils add a touch of brightness to any celebration.

Order early to ensure timely delivery and avoid the holiday rush. We proudly offer local delivery throughout Gaithersburg, Maryland, and nearby areas including Rockville, Germantown, Laytonsville, and Clarksburg.

A Legacy of Love

This Mother’s Day, let’s honor both the mothers we cherish and the legacy of Anna Jarvis. Whether it’s with a bouquet of white carnations, a handwritten note, or simply spending quality time together, every gesture counts. Visit Tognoli Florist to explore our Mother’s Day collection and make this year’s celebration unforgettable.

Let’s celebrate the love, strength, and sacrifices of mothers everywhere on Sunday, May 11, 2025!

Unveiling the History of Valentine's Day: Celebrate Love

Valentine's Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, is a cherished occasion dedicated to expressing love, affection, and appreciation for those who hold a special place in our hearts. From romantic gestures to heartfelt tokens of friendship, this day has become a universal symbol of connection and care.

But have you ever paused to wonder about the origins of this beloved holiday and the story of its namesake, Saint Valentine? His tale, rooted in bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in the power of love, has inspired centuries of traditions and celebrations.

Join us as we delve into the fascinating history behind Valentine's Day and discover creative ways to make this year's celebration truly unforgettable. Whether you're planning a romantic evening, a fun outing with friends, or simply looking to show someone you care, there's always a way to make February 14th meaningful and special.

Who Was Saint Valentine?

Saint Valentine is celebrated as a martyr from the early Christian church who lived during the Roman Empire. Historical accounts suggest that he was a Roman priest who served during the reign of Emperor Claudius II, also known as Claudius the Goth, between 268 and 270 AD. At the time, Emperor Claudius II had issued a decree prohibiting marriages, convinced that single men made more effective soldiers than those with families and emotional ties. Saint Valentine, moved by compassion and a deep sense of justice, defied this decree by secretly officiating weddings for young couples who sought to unite in love despite the risks.

Valentine's courageous actions soon caught the attention of Roman authorities. He was arrested, imprisoned, and eventually brought before the emperor. Even in captivity, Valentine remained steadfast in his beliefs, reportedly using his time in prison to minister to others. Some accounts even tell of a miraculous event where he restored sight to the blind daughter of his jailer, an act that further demonstrated his devotion and faith.

Despite these efforts, Valentine was ultimately sentenced to death for his defiance of imperial orders and his unwavering commitment to Christian principles. On February 14th, he was executed, becoming a symbol of selfless love and sacrifice. Over the centuries, his story has been retold and cherished, solidifying his legacy as the patron saint of lovers, a figure who reminds us of the power of love and the courage it often requires.

Why Is Valentine's Day Celebrated on February 14th?

The choice of February 14th as the day to honor Saint Valentine is deeply connected to the date of his martyrdom, a significant event in early Christian history. This date also aligns with ancient traditions marking mid-February as a time of renewal and fertility, coinciding with the early signs of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. In many cultures, this period symbolized new beginnings, growth, and the blossoming of life, which naturally tied into themes of love and partnership.

As centuries passed, these associations evolved and intertwined with romantic traditions. By the Middle Ages, February 14th was further popularized as a day for lovers, partly due to the belief that birds began their mating season around this time. The works of poets like Geoffrey Chaucer helped cement the connection between love and the season, giving rise to the traditions we know today. Over time, Valentine's Day became synonymous with romantic love and affection, celebrated through meaningful gestures such as exchanging flowers, heartfelt cards, and thoughtful gifts, making it a day cherished by couples and loved ones around the world.

Valentine's Day Activities Ideas

As Valentine's Day approaches on Friday, February 14, 2025, Gaithersburg and the broader Montgomery County area offer a variety of activities to make the day memorable:

• Galentine’s Day Celebrations: Celebrate friendship with your closest pals by exploring local events tailored for friends. From upscale movie experiences to wine tastings, Montgomery County has numerous options to enjoy with friends.

• Romantic Dining: Indulge in a special meal at one of Gaithersburg's fine dining establishments. Many local restaurants offer Valentine's Day specials, providing the perfect ambiance for a romantic evening.

• Nature Walks: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Montgomery County by taking a stroll through local parks and trails. The serene environment offers a peaceful setting for couples to connect.

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Tognoli Florist: Your Local Flower Shop in Gaithersburg, MD

No Valentine's Day is complete without the timeless gesture of gifting flowers. At Tognoli Florist, we specialize in creating exquisite floral arrangements that convey love and appreciation. Our Valentine's Day collection features romantic bouquets, teddy bears, and chocolates, all handcrafted for delivery in Gaithersburg and nearby cities. Whether you're planning ahead or need a last-minute gift, we offer same-day delivery to ensure your loved ones receive their flowers fresh and on time.

Why Choose Tognoli Florist?

• Local Expertise: As a Gaithersburg-based florist, we understand the preferences of our community and tailor our arrangements accordingly.

• Freshness Guaranteed: We source the freshest flowers to ensure longevity and beauty in every bouquet.

• Convenient Delivery: Our delivery services cover Gaithersburg and surrounding areas like Clarksburg, Germantown, Rockville, and Potomac, making it easy to send love across Montgomery County.

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Interesting Fact

Did you know that Valentine's Day is not only for couples? Many people celebrate "Galentine's Day" with their friends, emphasizing the importance of friendship and platonic love. It's a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for the special people in your life, regardless of romantic involvement.

Conclusion

Valentine's Day is a beautiful tradition that has evolved over centuries, rooted in the legend of Saint Valentine. Whether you're celebrating with a partner, friends, or family, Gaithersburg offers a plethora of options to make the day special. And when it comes to expressing your sentiments through flowers, Tognoli Florist is here to help you convey your love and appreciation with elegance and charm.

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For more information on Valentine's Day events and ideas in Montgomery County, Visit Montgomery.

To explore our Valentine's Day floral collection and place an order, visit Tognoli Florist's Valentine's Day Flowers.

Plan your Valentine's Day activities with insights from Bethesda Magazine.

Discover more about local Valentine's Day events on Facebook.