The Wearin' of the Green

Green ribbons and shamrocks were worn in celebration of St. Patrick's Day as early as the 17th century. Keep the tradition alive by having green carnations available for your quests to pin on when they arrive at your celebration.


Fill an interesting and appropriately themed container, such as the old Bailey's tin that I used here (which interestingly enough, was made in England), with green carnations that are cut short and ready to be adorned with a ribbon or pinned on a lapel as is.

The carnations I've used are a natural green variety called prado. It is one of my favorite flowers because of its beautiful pale green color and is available year round.

If you really want to impress your special Irish lad or lass, look into their eyes as you pin on their carnation and say "T t go h-lainn" (You're beautiful).