Published: February 01. 2012 2:00AM

Written by: Kate Tierney
Photographed by: Josh Norris

Lucky number 12 has a specific word to describe it. A dozen, so easy to identify — a dozen eggs, a dozen doughnuts, a dozen roses. Is there any rhyme or reason why a dozen roses is the most popular rose arrangement ordered for St. Valentine’s Day and other sentimental holidays?

The language of flowers developed during the Victorian era assigned a meaning and sentiment to every flower, color and stem quantity, thus giving an added dimension to flower giving.

The number 12 is very significant in nature, religion, mythology and philosophy: the 12 hours on a clock, the 12 months of the year, the 12 signs of the Zodiac. The constant recurrence of the number 12, from ancient times to the present day, gives it an aura of perfection and completeness.

A dozen roses translates into the perfect message of complete love, total devotion, a thinking of you 12 months out of the year.

In addition to color and the magical dozen, the design style that you choose for your beloved will reflect your relationship, a personal flair or a special message. Take a look at a few of the choices I have put together for you.

Remember that this year, St. Valentine’s Day is on Tuesday. A Monday delivery will not only be a surprise but will guarantee that your flowers are with the intended all day on the 14th. Order early!